(AD) Ivory Tower: Childcare for self care

As a busy parent finding time for yourself whilst caring for your children can be nigh on impossible. Barely have time for a shower? Exercise a luxury of the past? Childcare that suits your working hours a pipe dream? If you can relate to any of these scenarios then Ivory Tower Childcare may be the solution you have been searching for.

Founded by Una Jenkins, the mind behind Mission Thrive, Ivory Tower Childcare sets itself apart from usual childcare providers by offering an ad hoc service. Una is an OFSTED registered childminder with over 10 years’ experience working with children and a background in Psychology. Una is acutely aware of the pressures faced by modern parents as she is a busy Mum herself with a 14-month-old son.  

Whether you are a parent whose working hours are unusual or you simply want time to yourself, Ivory Tower is unique in that it offers childcare that works around you.

As Una explains ‘Ivory Tower was born out of three strands of thought; the need for flexible working, the need for flexible childcare and the need for self care. I came to the realisation that ad hoc childcare is hard to come by and so, starting Ivory Tower allowed me to bridge that gap for parents and children in Gloucestershire.’

‘I am trying to encourage people and parents in particular to make time for themselves. Based in Southam, Ivory Tower offers a safe space for both parent and child to be who they want to be in that moment. For parents, I want to make their aspirational dreams a reality – even if it is to simply go for a walk. From the children’s perspective, I really want it to be a space where they can be completely free to explore and develop on their own terms.’

‘No one knows your baby better than you so I work closely with parents to meet every child’s needs. I offer a homely environment with the professionalism of a nursery. One of the key things is that Ivory Tower Childcare is simple for parents to use. Childcare can be booked online on the dedicated website and the pricing structure is clear.’

‘I am striving for both sides of the equation to be exceptional. I know that what I am offering through ad hoc childcare is necessary for parents and, in some cases, is a godsend. However, my main aim is to offer really high-quality childcare and this remains my motivation.’

Although the service is ad hoc, children are allowed to settle in at Ivory Tower in their own time. Una offers as many settling in sessions as the child needs starting off with parents/carers popping in for a cup of tea with little one and gradually increasing to two hours at a time, a half day and finally a full day session.

‘I get so much value from knowing that what I am doing is important and is making a difference. Parenthood changes us intrinsically but it shouldn’t stop us’.

Ivory Tower is also a member of the Forest Childcare Association meaning that outdoor play is incorporated into every day. With a beautiful landscaped garden, sand and water play are available alongside a mud kitchen and much more! There are also plans in the pipeline for a dedicated nursery room – Ivory Tower Childcare is going from strength to strength. 

To find out more about Una Jenkins, Ivory Tower Childcareand ad hoc solutions for your childcare needs please visit the dedicated website, blog and social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.

Love, Thrifty Mumma X

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