Kelly Churchard
Many mums dread leaving their babies when it’s time to return to work after the end of maternity leave – even if they’re excited to get back to the workplace. But having great childcare that you can trust helps to take the sting out of those first few weeks. For Christina Sherlock, returning to her job in Woman’s Aid after having her second child, Tadhg, was made a lot easier by the fact that she had a crèche that she knew and loved after her experience with her daughter, Orla, who is now five.
Like many parents, Christina admits to struggling at first when leaving Orla in crèche, but found the transition a lot easier with Tadhg thanks to the staff in her chosen crèche, Daisy Days – and one staff member in particular. Kelly Churchard works in the toddler room in Daisy Days, and Christina was immediately taken by her warm character. “Kelly takes a real interest in the child and talks to all the parents at drop off and collection. As a parent, it really put me at ease. She is a really friendly, warm and open childcare professional. You can see that she has high standards and wants all the children to do well.”
Philip Lowry, whose sons Max and Caleb also spent time in Kelly’s room, agrees. “I really cannot stress how nice Kelly is. She is warm not only to the kids but also to the parents. At no stage did I ever feel Max or Cal would not be loved under Kelly, and I think that’s the difference, she doesn’t only mind them she makes them feel loved. I have never seen a bad side or humour to Kelly and I don’t know if one exists.”
In addition, Kelly’s skills as an educator are put to the test in her room. “The toddler room is where the children start to develop the skills they need before heading into pre-school,” Christina explains. “Kelly puts a big emphasis on learning through fun and exploring new experiences, like water play, arts and generally making a mess! Tadhg was a little quiet with his speech for a while and Kelly worked with us to help bring him along.”
Tadhg has since moved on to the pre-school room, but still calls Kelly’s room ‘his room’ and is always delighted to see her. “I am thrilled that Kelly has won this award; she and all the staff at Daisy Days really deserve it for their excellent standard of childcare and their warm and caring ways.”
