Apple Blossom Childcare

26/08/2026

Today was one of those days that reminds me just how much this job means to me.

We said goodbye to one of my little ones as he heads off to preschool. I’ve cared for him since before he could walk, and now he’s leaving as a confident, funny, kind and gentle little boy, ready for his next adventure.

The truth is, these goodbyes never get easier. We spend years together through first steps, first words, wobbles, triumphs, cuddles, laughter and all the ordinary moments that somehow become the most special memories.

There were tears today, but they came from a place of gratitude. Gratitude that his family trusted me with such an important part of his childhood. Gratitude that I got to watch him grow into the wonderful little person he is becoming.

People often say that childminding is just a job, but it never feels like that. Every child who passes through my setting leaves a little piece of themselves behind. They help shape the story of Apple Blossom Childcare and become part of its heart forever.

So today, while my heart feels a little heavy, it also feels incredibly full.

Good luck on your next adventure, my little love. I couldn't be prouder of you. 💛

19/08/2026

Last week our friends from Wildwood Childcare took us on an adventure!

We explored a new walk and stream at Mannings Pit, with plenty of paddling, splashing and exploring along the way. The highlight? An unexpected visit from some curious cows! Although I’m told they're pretty much part of the furniture here. 🤣

There’s something special about slowing down, following the children’s lead, and discovering new places together. From cool water on our toes to surprise encounters with wildlife, every outing brings opportunities to learn, explore and make memories.

Safe to say we'll be back! 🌿

Hygge in the Early Years

06/08/2026

Role play is such an important part of early childhood. 💛

Whether children are pretending to run a café, care for an animal, or serve customers in a shop, they're developing communication skills, confidence, creativity, problem-solving and social skills through play.

Trips out and mornings exploring our local community are a regular part of our routine. We love finding places where children can play, learn and make connections with the world around them and whenever we can, we love supporting local businesses too.

Today we visited Imagination Avenue Play Cafe and stayed for lunch. The children enjoyed the signature pancakes topped with fruit and syrup, which went down a treat with a nice bite of toast on the side too! 🥞🍓

Learning, laughter, friendship and good food = a pretty perfect morning. ✨

05/08/2026

“Be careful!” 🚫
“Don’t climb that!” 🚫

Or… do we let children take managed risks? 🌿

My little adventurer tackled a wire tunnel climb to reach the slide at the top on a visit to Moors Valley Country Park and Forest. No rushing, no pressure… just careful steps, determination, and a huge smile when he made it! 💪

Big brother was there for support, while I cheered from the ground. ❤️

Children don’t build confidence by avoiding challenges. They build it by facing them safely, one step at a time.

This is exactly why safe risk-taking is such a big part of our days at Apple Blossom Childcare. 🌱

What would you have done—encouraged them to try or told them to come back down? 👇

Hygge in the Early Years

03/08/2026

Sometimes the best adventures are the ones you don't plan 🌊

Today we headed to the beach for an impromptu outing. We balanced along driftwood, raced down the dunes, felt the sand between our toes, and dipped our feet into the sea.
One of the things I love most about where we live is having these experiences right on our doorstep. No big plans, no expensive attractions.. just fresh air, freedom to explore, and the simple joy of being outdoors.
These little moments often become the most memorable ones 💙
Hygge in the Early Years

29/07/2026

Sending love to all expectant families at this uncertain time and signposting you to this fantastic antenatal centre that can support in so many ways as you prepare to meet your babies ❤️

💚 A message for expectant families

Many of you will have seen today’s news regarding the potential temporary suspension of births at North Devon District Hospital.

If you’re currently pregnant and were planning to have your baby at NDDH, it’s completely understandable to feel worried or uncertain.

At this stage, plans are still being confirmed. If your care does need to change, your midwifery team will contact you directly, explain what it means for you and work with you to update your care plan. You won’t be expected to navigate these decisions on your own.

Every pregnancy is unique, so please try not to compare your situation with others or rely on speculation on social media. Your care will continue to be based on your individual needs.

To our Devon Antenatal families, please remember that we’re here for you too. We may not have any additional information beyond the official updates, but we’re always happy to help you understand the information you’ve been given, talk through any questions you may wish to ask your maternity team and help you organise your thoughts as you navigate any changes.

Finally, we’d like to send our support to the incredible maternity teams who continue to care for families during what is undoubtedly a challenging time.

28/07/2026

No school run this morning meant an extra hour of fun! The boys found some shin pads and decided a game of football was in order, so we went for a walk to our local football pitch and had some fun 👏🏻 Hygge in the Early Years

27/07/2026

A sunshine stroll to Woolmers' Farm to visit the farm shop, have a play and see the animals 🥰 we bought a lovely cake and some strawberries, ate it all up and then walked home!
A gorgeous morning well spend 🥹 then… on the way home we saw a helicopter land right in the field next to us!! It couldn’t have got better for these little people who were waving with everything they had! Hygge in the Early Years

08/06/2026

This morning’s walk was full of tiny discoveries at Rhs Rosemoor. We carefully searched for invertebrates hiding beneath logs, collecting a few in observation pots so we could take a closer look before returning them safely to their homes.

🐝 Bees…
We learned how these incredible little pollinators communicate through their famous waggle dance, using movement to tell their friends where to find food. The children enjoyed practicing this with their friends!

There’s something magical about slowing down enough to notice the small things.

No fancy resources required 🙂 just welly boots, fresh air and a sense of wonder. ✨

Hygge in the Early Years

06/06/2026

Earlier in the year I achieved my Hygge in the Early Years accreditation and I’m so proud of everything I have achieved in working towards this 🥰

In a world that often tells us to do more, be more and move faster, Hygge in the Early Years invites us to do something different: to slow down.

To notice the puddles. To linger over stories and share a snack together. To leave space for wonder, conversation and connection.

This accreditation reflects a journey that has shaped the way I see childhood. Not as a race towards the next milestone, but as a season to be savoured. A time for belonging, comfort, curiosity and joy.

Every day, I strive to create an environment where children feel safe, valued and unhurried. Where there is time to explore deeply, play meaningfully and simply be.

Because childhood is not something to rush through.

It’s something to cherish. 🌿🤎