Hand on heart I can honestly say that the best thing I have ever done in my life is to become a mother. My own children, Sam and David, have provided me with the inspiration for a career caring for children and I love every minute of it.

My husband, Mark, and my two boys have given me the love and support that has been needed for a demanding career in childminding. Despite the long hours, short holidays and stressful times that running a business can bring, they have always been there for me with encouragement and help and for this I am eternally grateful.

My mother, Cynthia, perhaps the most influential person in my life when it comes to childcare, has also been a source of inspiration and support. She has worked with me as an assistant over the years and shared the ups and downs that childminding has to offer.

I would also like to thank the following people and organisations for their contribution to this book:

Nikki Read and Giles Lewis of How To Books for giving me the opportunity to have my book published and help other people to realise their dream of setting up their own childminding business.

All the parents, carers and children I have had the privilege of working with over the years.

HMSO’s Licensing Division for their kind permission to reproduce core material from Ofsted publications.

National Childminding Association.

All those who have contributed to the publishing of this book.