Phone: 03 595 5306 | No openings available currently

I have spaces available..

I have openings available at this time for a children please contact me  should you wish to join the waitlist.

Welcome to Donna's Daycare

A In-Home Educator based in Hornby, Christchurch

Hi I'm Donna and I am a fully qualified Home Educator with years of parenting and grandparent experience. I am Mum to three grown up children and I'm also lucky enough to have a gorgeous 7 year old granddaughter who I've had the privilege to help bring up and nurture.

Becoming a home-based educator has been the best decision. I've always loved caring for people little, big and elderly. I started my In-Home Educator career nearly 4 years ago and since then have completed the New Zealand Certificate ECE Level 4 and cared for many families. Check out what my families say about me by scrolling down to the testimonials.

I am a kind and caring person, who loves working with people and children from all walks of life.
Prior to becoming an in-home Educator I spent the last 9 years working with the Elderly as an in home assist for Nurse Maude, which I have loved as I appreciate the elderly and all they offer.

I look forward to working with parents to develop a learning plan specifically for your child.

Donna & her Granddaughter Skyla

What I offer

I provide a caring, nurturing, fun, learning environment and a large shaded outdoor area. We have a variety of resources and enjoy crafts, painting, cooking, our new garden, sandpit and fantastic swing and slide set.

I utilize the local community and incorporate lots of creative experiences in my programme. As we have birds, a dog Elmo and cats, animals play a part in my programme I will be providing. I will cater specifically for your individual child and ensure they make the most out of their time spent in my care.

Testimonials from some of our parents

Judy

“To whom it may concern, My girl had first started care with Donna Downs when she was 11 months old and it was amazing how after two weeks she completely settled in. Donna has been really caring of my child and would update me if anything is to be a concern of. I love seeing all the photos of the activities they do daily and the beautiful art works Raelyn takes home too. 

I can see Raelyn feels happy and safe when she’s there and though due to my personal situations we had to stop care with Donna, but she’s still the first person I think of when I needed someone to look after Raelyn. I would highly recommend Donna to anyone who is thinking about starting care but your child is slow to adapt, too little or when a preschool setting just is not the best for your child.”

Carrie

“Donna has been looking after my son Cody since he was a few months old, and he is now 3 years old. Donna takes Cody on outdoor excursions weekly and encourages him to create and make things regularly, exploring his own creativity. 

Cody feels safe and loves going to Donna's each day. Donna genuinely cares for Cody and will make sure he gets the most out of being in her care. Cody gets to experience indoor and outdoor play on a daily basis, and interacting with other children. Donna regularly uploads pictures of Cody so I can see what he gets up to while in her care. I highly recommend Donna's services.”

Megan

Lochlan has been in Donna's care since January 2020, I find Donna to provide an excellent in-home childcare service to my son, she has a wide range of activities, toys and regularly undertakes excursions with the children.

Donna provides regular updates via messages and photos.  Lochlan enjoys coming to Donna's and I find he is striving under her care.

I am so impressed with her care that I place my school age children with her during the School Holidays. 

Kerrie

“This is just a wee note to verify Donna's Care. Our Daughter was very shy & uncomfortable when not around mum, but as she is growing she is really coming out of that and we know a good portion of that is coming from the loving care she receives while at Donna's place.

They do a lot of arts & crafts and other activities. Donna takes a lot of time to make the "porse book" a good reflection of their days. We are very pleased Donna & her family are a part of our lives as we sure did make a good choice for our girl. Sincerley Kerrie.”

Nick

Donna looks after my daughter five days a week and I could not be more impressed by how much my child has grown under her care. 

Donna provides an educational and fun environment that my daughter is thriving in. Most days she doesn't want to leave!. Would recommend her service's to everyone. You will not regret putting your child here.

Activities I Provide

  • Sandpit
  • Water play
  • Baking
  • Painting
  • Reading books
  • Physical Activities
  • Library Visits
  • Arts and Crafts
  • Play dough
  • Bikes and trikes
  • Separate Playroom
  • Gloop
  • Age appropriate toys
  • Physical activity
  • Nature walks

Courses I have Completed

  • First Aid Course
  • Growing in Connection Course
  • Talk to Me Course
  • Te Whariki Workshop
  • Speech and Language Workshop
  • Heuristic Play Workshop
  • Music and Movement Workshop
  • Transition to School Workshop
  • Behaviour has Meaning
  • Power of Relationships
  • Power of Play

A look at Donna's Daycare

What we've been up to lately

Yes! I currently have availability for new children!

I have a opening available at this time for a children please contact me to discuss your requirements.