writting a reference for my childminder

[insywinsyspider]

I'm pg with no 2 and am cutting down ds's hours with childminder so she is going to be having a couple of new children, I offered to give her a current reference for her folder (though it would be good to have one from a current parent rather than one who's left) she wasn't sure yesterday but this morning said it was a great idea and could she have one asap as she's got a mum coming round this week... problem is I've never written a reference so have no idea what to write! I can't remember what the ones in her folder looked like either

any advice? what would you like someone to say?

Are you happy with her care of your DS?
Is there anything she does particularily well?
Is she really flexible about something?
Is she very proffessional?

Just write a letter

I've a couple of references on my website if you want to get an idea

• the reason you are leaving (ie to show you aren't leaving cos of any issues/problems) and that you have been happy with quality of care

- what made you choose her above anyone else - if she's had little or no time off sick - if she's given you plenty of notice re holidays - what activities/outings she's provided you liked - what you like about her personality - anything positive about her own family, children sharing with mindees etc, hubby friendly and good with kids etc - if she does daily diaries, what you like about the info she gives you - if she provides meals how has this helped you - if your child is keen to go to cm, what shows you your child is happy

Thanks for taking the time for your childminder - lots of parents promise but don't get round to writing anything. It really is helpful for other parents to see, especially for those who haven't come by personal recommendation. And good for getting out at Ofsted inspections too!

well it should be easy because she is great, we're not leaving her so I though it would be better to have a reference from someone regualr rather than a leaver

thanks for the link looney - I've started plagerising it already!