10 months ago my daughter suffered a huge trauma after losing her Granny and starting preschool at the same time which resulted in severe separation anxiety. I felt completely hopeless, but a few months ago I found Cookie Maison on this website and contacted Donna.

She went over and above what I'd expect (and experienced) from other childminders and she's built a fantastic bond with my daughter. She listened and understood the challenges we faced and helped us (and me) to work through them, slowly and at my daughter's pace. Donna is an angel and we couldn't have gotten through this without her. I cannot put it in to words how important Donna is in our lives now. My daughter asks on a daily basis to go to Cookie Maison now! This is a huge accomplishment and every time she goes to Cookie Maison her various anxieties are getting easier with Donna's love and support.

The Cookie Maison setting is beautiful and welcoming, with a huge variety of indoor toys (many are lovely wooden ones, and lots of gorgeous books) and outdoor toys for all ages and for different interests.

Every day the children are given the opportunity to do different activities, they learn through play, and go on walks to farthing downs/happy valley.

The cabin is magical and provides a comfortable, and comforting sense of home which my daughter loves. She particularly enjoyed finding the floor to ceiling bubble tube and the sensory elements to the cabin such as the lights. It is very clean and tidy, as is the garden.

Donna's family dogs are extremely friendly and calm, but kept in the house unless closely supervised. They are gorgeous doggies and make a wonderful addition to the setting, giving the children the opportunity to learn about animals in a safe and structured way.

My daughter hasn't stayed for tea much but the menu's that Donna provides are healthy, varied and home cooked. Lunchtimes are in the cabin or in the garden picnic style. She has great facilities, takes allergies, as well as cleanliness very seriously and always encourages healthy eating habits.

Her communication is fantastic and always keeps me up to date on my daughter's progress and takes photos (with my permission) which I greatly appreciate.

Nothing is too much trouble and I trusted Donna immediately. She's extremely kind, friendly, and clearly cares for the children she looks after as her own. I know my daughter is loved there. I wish I had found her earlier!!

• Overall
• Setting
• Cleanliness
• Food
• Communication