Interview with Childminder Mary O’Boyle by Lara Hughes
For over 30 years, Mary has opened her home and heart to children, providing not just care, but a second family. She has minded around 50 children throughout her career, shaping young lives with patience, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to their well-being.
Her journey began when she wanted to stay at home with her two boys while also earning an income. What started as a practical decision quickly became a lifelong passion.
Breaking the Silence: A Milestone to Remember
Among the many children she has cared for, one little boy stood out. He arrived in her care without a single word to say. Undeterred, Mary learned to read his signals, offering constant encouragement and a steady stream of books. Then one day, the silence was broken. As they strolled through the park, he saw a digger and exclaimed, “Digger!” It was a moment of triumph not just for him, but for Mary, his mother, and everyone who had been waiting for his voice.
More Than a Childminder – A Lifelong Bond
Mary’s impact on children doesn’t end when they grow up. One boy, Arron, was in her care from the time he was just nine weeks old until he completed his Leaving Cert. Now in his twenties, he still holds a special place in her heart. The relationships Mary builds with families go beyond day-to-day care—she is often invited to 21st birthday celebrations and remains a trusted part of their lives.
A Home Full of Warmth and Structure
Mary has always believed in routine and creating a nurturing space where children feel safe and loved. Her mornings begin at 6:15am when she prepares dinner, ensuring she can focus entirely on the children when they arrive. The day is filled with school drop-offs, playtime, naps, school pick-ups, homework, and mealtimes. She organises birthday parties, encourages a love of books, and was even asked to attend parent-teacher meetings by a mindee when his mum couldn’t make it!
She has potty trained many of the children she has cared for and, has the magic touch when it comes to making Bolognese. One child described it as better than his mums – even though it was the same recipe!!
Challenges and Triumphs
Childminding isn’t without its challenges. High temperatures in young children can be worrying, and navigating the restrictions of COVID was particularly tough. But Mary’s “go with the flow” approach has helped her through every obstacle.
One of the biggest surprises? The way children would gravitate towards her husband, Martin. He never ate a full dinner without little hands dipping in to his food!
Funny Moments That Last a Lifetime
Childminding comes with its fair share of hilarious moments. One mischievous boy once managed to cover his entire face and arms in Sudocrem, leading to an impromptu clean-up operation. Another day, two boys she minded who looked nothing alike went on a bog visit and came back covered head to toe in dirt —so much so that Mary couldn’t tell them apart until they had a shower and changed clothes!
Words of Wisdom from an Experienced Childminder
Mary has plenty of advice for those considering a career in childminding:
- Be reliable – parents depend on you, so commitment is key.
- Cook your own food – home-cooked meals are best.
- Keep rules simple – too many can make a home feel strict instead of warm.
- Have an open-door policy – parents should feel welcome at any time.
- Be upfront with parents – daily updates foster trust.
- Set boundaries – a happy home needs clear and consistent guidelines.
- Rain gear – have a selection of coats & wellies on hand for the rainy day.
Looking Ahead
As Mary looks toward retirement, she is keeping active with strength and conditioning classes, community clean-up projects, and an over-55s club filled with activities, talks, and trips. As she steps away from childminding soon, the love and dedication she has given to so many children will remain her lasting legacy.
For Mary, the greatest reward has always been simple: seeing children thrive, knowing they feel safe and loved in her home, and watching them grow into wonderful young adults who still want her in their lives. That, she says, is how she knows she has done a good job.
Here are a few pictures of Mary and her mindees from over the years – some of whom are now grown up!
