15 years ago we chose Montessori Education for our children. It was an investment we were…read morepassionate about. WMS offered the perfect conditions to nurture and "grow" our children. I wrote an essay years ago, Locally Grown, about our experience of the treasured early elementary years. Fast forward and our oldest is graduating High School and youngest is a freshman. As a family, we are compelled to share our honest and sincere feedback of this experience from a retrospective perspective. These thoughts have been communicated with the head of school directly however, we feel called to share publicly as to offer insight to those families considering the AP. Our children's recommendation is: "Stay through 6th and skip the AP". The Adolescent Program at WMS presents a conflicting experience for several students and families, highlighting significant concerns and areas for improvement. While the school claims to provide a holistic approach to education, it falls short in crucial areas, leaving some students unprepared for the challenges of high school. The AP  has strayed far from the original Montessori philosophy, which emphasized neutrality, respect for individuality, and a focus on grounded, thoughtful education. The current approach has deviated from those principles, favoring an agenda-driven model that seems to place the needs of its teachers above those of the students. The most striking issue is the lack of preparation in foundational subjects, especially math and writing. My oldest states she was at a disadvantage due to the insufficiency in these core areas, leading to regret and frustration as struggled to catch up in her freshman year. She expressed she was profoundly underprepared for the rigor of her high school, acknowledging the gap could have been much wider had we not chosen to leave the AP before the completion of the 9th year. The social environment at WMS also presents challenges. We observed evident favoritism towards certain students, creating an atmosphere of exclusion and uneven attention. Additionally, teachers engage in questionable behaviors, including texting students and discussing other students in a negative light both in front of students and sometimes parents. A total lack of integrity. The teacher-student dynamic often feels less like a mentorship and more like a friendship-seeking relationship which undermines the authority and maturity required in an educational setting. For example, encouraging students to experiment with nail polish, twerking, and other frivolities rather than teaching math and writing. Some teachers seem more interested in fulfilling their own emotional needs through vulnerable adolescents than providing the guidance, wisdom, and leadership that students require. The program's attempt at inclusivity and open-mindedness is overshadowed by a lack of neutrality. Teachers actively promote personal social beliefs, leaving little room for objective discussion or diverse perspectives. The curriculum, too,  leans heavily into certain ideologies, and teachings, creating an atmosphere of comparison, while neglecting broader educational goals. As parents, we were told by staff "The adolescent brain is broken " and they will struggle with decision making and managing emotions. Indeed, the adolescent brain's developmental limitations are not adequately considered in decision-making. The emphasis on identity exploration, and identity-dependent worthiness, adds to the confusion and emotional turmoil during a period when students should be focusing on personal growth and academic development.  Our observation has been that the adolescent program has strayed from"following the child" to "following the cause".  A distinct contrast to the original Montessori philosophy, which emphasized neutrality, respect for individuality, and a focus on grounded, thoughtful education. The current approach appears to favor an agenda-driven model that often places the needs of the school and its teachers above those of the students. In conclusion, while the WMS Adolescent  Program may appeal to some families for its progressive approach, it is our determination it falls short in preparing students for future academic success and personal development. A return to the original Montessori mission--focusing on respect, objective learning, and appropriate developmental guidance--could better serve the needs of these adolescents during one of the most critical stages of their growth. Investing in a Montessori education was a good parenting decision but pulling them from the Adolescent Program was our greatest decision.

Our son has been at WMS since January 2023, and we couldn't be happier with the quality of…read moreeducation he is receiving. He attended preschool and Kindergarten (primary ages), and Montessori learning has been wonderful for his development. Thank you particularly to Mrs. Berdick for her help in bringing our boy out of his shell even more and helping him excel academically but also in his independence. We plan to have him enrolled through 9th grade, and we can't wait to be long-term members of this great community.

I was a student of June Hellesoy back in the early 90s. I was only 6 but remember her kindergarten…read moreclasses with great fondness. If you are interested in waldorf early childhood education then it will be hard to find a more beautiful, heartfelt, nurturing location for your child. As a former student, I can vouch for it!

Definition of cult: (noun) A relatively small group that…read moreexcessively controls its members, who share a set of acts and practices which require unwavering devotion, and are typically led by a charismatic and often self-appointed leader. Yes, that's how I would describe this early learning center. Let me explain- my son (2 years) and I attended a Saturday playdate a couple months ago. As soon as I set foot inside those gates, I wanted out. Something felt off, and I felt trapped. It did not feel like a normal daycare open house. We were hounded by the staff the entire time, answering question after question about our son. I am all about alternative education, especially early childhood. I also have read some Rudolf Steiner and understand the spiritual aspects of his teachings. But this "secular" school had Christian mangers EVERYWHERE, and they admitted they teach about Jesus, which is not super secular at all. You would think in 2023, they would have left all of the prejudiced and supremacist Steiner teachings out, keeping just what is actually relevant in our current world. Just not so at this place, unfortunately. Everything was super white, "white is right", and non-inclusive. Which brings me to the finale of this horrible experience. They asked us to help them bake bread, and everyone attending took part in the process, and then we sat down to eat it. Not 6 hours later, my son is vomiting with a high fever, is weak, and won't eat anything. The very next day, I come down with similar symptoms. I have dubbed this event, the "Poison Playdate" for this reason, and reported the school to Chicago Public Health. They should be shut down for a potential rotavirus outbreak. On a side note, my friend volunteered briefly at another Waldorf school and she said they reused broth that was who knows how old in their "bread," so maybe this problem is more endemic than anyone could imagine. I won't be going back to any more Waldorf school events- I sincerely hope other parents use caution as well. Additionally, I contacted the school about our illness, and they denied any potential responsibility. Red flags all around

My son has been at LPP for about a year now and LPP is truly fantastic!…read more Prior to enrolling my son, I did a thorough search and visited 5-10 different daycares/preschools before selecting LPP. Every aspect of LPP is very well thought out -- whether it be how they manage food allergies (my son has several) to how they prepare and execute parent teacher conferences to the weekly curriculums to how they retain their staff (teachers sign a year long contract). And most importantly, the teachers really care and know the students. Each day, they send home little notes about what each student did and details of my son that they provide can only captured by listening and knowing him. I know it can be tough to get into but it is absolutely worth it.

We looked far and wide in our search for preschools for our daughter when she was 2-1/2. Since it…read morewas her first school experience, it was really important to us that she love it (we wanted the first associations to be great). There are many great preschools in Chicago, and particularly the Near North Side, where we live. But LPP was really the right choice for us. The space is open and full of light (no windowless tunnels of classrooms, as we saw in lots of schools). The kids go to Lincoln Park, Astor Park, the zoo, or the tot lot every day. There is lots of imaginative play. But most importantly, the teachers are AWESOME. They are young, motivated, passionate about what they do, loving and nurturing. When you walk into the school to drop off or pick up, you just start to feel happy. Everyone is greeted and gets a smile (and the kids get hugs). There is a huge teaching emphasis on positive interactions with others -- sharing, kindness, laughter. Also, attitudinally, the school (and the parents who seem to end up there) is just mellow and sweet. Highly recommend. My daughter has such a great time there, and we've seen her skills and confidence grow in the past year. Of course, it all comes at a price -- but if you can afford it, it's certainly worth it and not out of line with other schools in the area. P.S. If you really want your child here, you may have to do as we did - keep calling back after you are waitlisted to remind them of your interest, and be flexible about your schedule -- days you are willing to come.

The absolute best preschool. Amazing teachers, really cool building, and a real community of…read morefamilies. We're on our 3rd child going through the school. All 3 couldn't wait to go to school everyday. All 3 have close friends they made at Park West (same with us as parents). And all 3 have been well prepared to start Kindergarten with real emotional and social maturity. Getting to assist in the classroom a couple of times a year is so much fun.

Park West is more than just a nursery school, it is a one of a kind welcoming community focused on…read morebuilding meaningful connections between children, teachers, families, caregivers and staff. They believe in the importance of taking the time to build a healthy and trusting relationship between the teacher and child (and parents) and take separation very seriously. The teachers are patient and kind and approachable. They are all extremely knowledgeable and experienced yet continue to research new approaches to teaching. My family is so grateful to be a part of the Park West Community and find a lot of peace with our choice to send our child there. Lucky for us, we got in after the admissions deadline had passed, perhaps a family moved away over the summer and that's how my last minute application was accepted. I was also able to call and schedule an in-person tour. Had I been more on top of things, I would have attended an open house in January and applied by the deadline in early February. The school year started with meet and greets at neighborhood playgrounds, parent potlucks, school block party, and of course parent orientation. I love the open and honest dialogue I have with my child's teachers. My kid has a speech delay and the teachers have been awesome and willing to help understand how he communicates and meet him with where he is at to reduce frustration in the classroom and with his peers. This was a big fear of mine as a first time parent - will the teachers understand my child. And at Park West they really have put in the time to get to know him and work with him. I also love how each family gets to help in the classroom every couple of weeks. It's allowed me to get to know the kids my child calls friends. And see what skills the teachers are focused on teaching. It's been great and something we look forward to. I've seen my child grow over the school year - he's more confident and independent and loves school. It's more than we could have hoped for. I would highly recommend Park West to any family looking for a supportive community committed to respecting children and families, nurturing relationships and sharing a love of learning.

I currently send my three year old daughter here and will be sending my 6 month old baby as well…read more The staff and teachers are wonderful and truly care about the children's well being. With covid we aren't able to see the teachers in person but they do an awesome job communicating with phone calls, zoom calls, emails, their app and newsletters. Appreciate all that they do!

Our nearly 6-month-old son has been going here since he was 12 weeks. Not only does he love it, but…read morewe love it too! The teachers are so kind and caring, you can tell that they really enjoy their job, the kids and the families as well. The app is great for real-time updates and worry free days for any new parent, this was a huge bonus for us! Plus the teachers capture some really great moments during the day with our child when we cannot be with them. We were a bit nervous because there were a lot of leadership changes from the time we signed up until the time our son started but it has all been great improvements to the facility. We are very happy with our choice.

I absolutely love this daycare and wouldn't trust my kids anywhere else. The staff is extremely…read moreloving, patient and understanding. I drive 10 minutes out of my way just for my boys to go here. Would definitely recommend!

I have a premie new born daughter with special needs. I had no doubt the teachers would be able to…read morecare for my baby. Since starting, she has been doing amazing, she is happy and I can tell she enjoys her teachers. I have no worry about dropping her off each day. The director has great communication skills with our family. I would recommend this school to anyone who needs care for their child.

Good Place. My daughter (15 months old) loves her play group. It close to my work place. I think…read moreprice is reasonable . Class room are too cool . They have cribs for the babies , pretty big kitchen . They provide lunch and snack .. sometimes Lunch too. My kid learn rhymes and she hums all the time. They have good play time. book reading times. play toys. . In addition they conduct spring events like *spring program (lil' Dance step for infants, Toddler I, Toddler II) *Family Tea Time *CCC. Graduation * Petting Zoo * Formal Ball *Art Carnival * Summer Picnic Wish i was a kid too..

My daughter was here from the age of 15 months to 26 months. It served its purpose at an affordable…read more(compared to others) price. Having been to several daycares it is not the best and not the worst. There are others I prefer downtown at higher prices or 20 minutes from downtown for the same price. It suited our needs at the time, but I'm happy my kids are elsewhere now.

Amazing! Miss Lauren…read moreand all the teachers here have been excellent. All the staff have been patient, firm, sincere, and unflappable. The atmosphere is friendly and upbeat, but also calm and a good combination of structure and independence. We've been grateful for the chance to have our kiddo spend some time at this center and I would highly recommend this location to anyone looking for quality daycare.

We love the Winfield KinderCare! We had to drop off our first child at this daycare during the…read moremiddle of COVID and we were not able to enter the building at any point. We were already nervous dropping out daughter off at day care for the first time to then add all the regulations of COVID on top of it. However, the staff and teachers at KinderCare made us feel so welcome and continued to communicate with us to help us through such a hard transition! We cannot wait to be back next fall!