A childminder who has “strong bonds” with the children she cares for has been rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted.

Laura Isherwood, 35, who runs Laura’s Day-Care in Baxenden, has been inspected by the government body and was found to be ‘Good’ in all areas.

Laura said: “Everything went really well. I am really happy with the outcome.”

The inspector spoke of how Laura uses "kind tones" and "consistently" praises the children while they are in her care.

The children play well together and are clear on "expectations to share and be kind" but can get distracted when completing tasks.

Lancashire Telegraph: The children out with Laura at Blackpool ZooThe children out with Laura at Blackpool Zoo

The report reads: “Children concentrate for long periods of time when playing with toys that are of particular interest to them.

“However, the childminder does not consistently encourage them to remain focused during activities that may challenge their thinking, or that are new to them.”

Children use their maths when playing, with Laura encouraging them to use the terms “over” and “under” when playing with trains.

They count the cars going past outside and talk about them being “fast” and “slow”.

Laura has installed a baby room with low-level soft areas to let them explore while they become more mobile.

The children are excited to move up to “big school” and have good well-embedded routines to help children prepare for the transition, the report added.

During the first lockdown, children remained in touch with Laura virtually and were provided with individual 'support packs'.

They continued to make good progress and upon returning to the setting, they were taken on outings to develop their social skills.