Three kids, three different preschools--including UW-Madison's Waisman Center's vaunted WECP--and…read morewhile each program has its strengths and weaknesses, in our humble opinion PSA takes the prize in the Madison area. From Director Penny, to the teachers in the various rooms, and the administrative staff, every single soul at PSA is a gem! Our son lives it, of course, and gets tremendous, thoughtful, experienced instruction in art, music, reading, math, and so on. So much so that we decided to keep him in the kindergarten program here, even though we could have saved some money by sending him to free public school. In short, I'd give PSA 10/10 stars, WECP 9/10, and another a much lower score. Worth every penny!

I've sent all three of my children to Preschool of the Arts, over the past decade, and my youngest…read moreis currently enrolled. PSA has been an absolutely wonderful experience for our family. The teachers are highly qualified, incredibly dedicated, and many of them have been with the school for years. That sense of stability and experience really shows in the way they care for and teach the children. Class sizes are small, which means each child gets a lot of individualized attention. The curriculum is creative, play-based, and truly lives up to the "arts" in the name -- my kids have thrived not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well. They come home excited to share what they've learned and created each day. What I appreciate most is the nurturing community the school fosters. Families, teachers, and staff all feel connected, and it's clear that children's growth and well-being are at the heart of everything they do. My oldest still connects with her preschool friends. If you are looking for a preschool where your child will be challenged, supported, and celebrated, I can't recommend PSA highly enough.

Beautiful school! Kids are so happy to go to school, they love learning. There is so much outside…read moretime, and they fit in Spanish and German from 1st grade on. The kids play music and sing all the time, they have huge smiles and seem so healthy. We love Waldorf.

As an active volunteer and parent at MWS, I was deeply invested in the school's success. However,…read moreafter witnessing faculty, staff, and board members dismiss and downplay credible concerns about child safety, ignore warnings from outside experts, and treat concerned families with open hostility, my partner and I felt compelled to disenroll our child for their safety. In our child's first year in MWS's mixed-aged kindergarten class, its pedagogy suited them well, and they thrived. We were deeply thankful for that experience. However with their second year came strict enforcement of a forced nap policy that caused noticeable emotional and behavioral struggles for them as well as multiple children who had outgrown naps. We eventually learned that this policy required all children to lie still and quiet in a dark room for up to 90 minutes a day, without alternatives for quiet play or reading in a lit space for those who could not sleep, while the teacher often left the room for the rest of the day. This had not been fully disclosed to parents previously. Seeking clarity, we consulted outside experts including a licensed child psychologist, who advised MWS that the enforced nap practice was developmentally inappropriate and potentially harmful, especially as most 5- and 6-year-olds will have outgrown naps by that age. We contacted other Waldorf schools which reacted with surprise and concern when told of MWS's nap policy. We also learned that, by contrast, WI state law requires licensed childcare centers (which MWS is not) to allow children who don't fall asleep within 30 minutes to move "off their sleeping surface and given a choice of activities in a reasonably lighted area". Despite bringing this information to the school in a good-faith and collaborative manner, our attempts to discuss this topic further were met with defensiveness and dismissal. Alarmed by the effects of subjecting children who have outgrown naps to this treatment, we voiced our worries to the school administrator and board. We were met with further dismissal and disparagement. After additional parents raised their own concerns, the board did eventually agree to an outside review -- but rejected calls to work with a licensed child psychologist in favor of hiring an "anthroposophical psychologist" instead. The school ultimately contracted a formal Waldorf teacher who lacked any training or licensure as a psychologist. During my meeting with this individual, whose role was to ostensibly serve as a neutral party and childhood development expert, they stated that while practitioners of "mainstream psychology" might be concerned with the appropriateness and safety of the current MWS naptime policy, Waldorf educators "know what's best" for their children, and that that should be sufficient to put any concerns to rest. Increasingly out-of-touch and aggressive communications from the school community followed. One individual, vying for the school's open admissions director role, urged the board and administration to expel us and another family for questioning the practices of a Waldorf teacher. Their memo also pressed for what was then an ongoing investigation into child safety concerns be quashed immediately. That individual was subsequently hired. My partner and I ultimately withdrew our child from MWS to ensure their safety and well-being, and in protest of how this and other issues across the school were handled. Subsequently connecting with other families who left MWS revealed a disturbing pattern of dismissal, denial, bullying and gaslighting -- including but not limited to concerns over naptime policy -- as well. I urge current and prospective families to be vigilant and to critically assess what type of environment they want for their child and family. Finally, it saddens me to anticipate that MWS might respond to this and other critical reviews with misinformation and personal disparagements. I encourage readers to weigh any such responses thoughtfully as they draw their own conclusions about which school is right for their family.

This is a beautiful childcare facility and preschool that has open gym on the weekends. In my…read moreopinion, this is the best indoor activity for toddlers and young children in the Madison area. This facility is beautifully designed. They have a large open room with a beautiful indoor playground perfect for toddlers. There are several other play areas within this large open space including an art table, puzzle area, mega blocks/duplo areas, a little grocery stand with play food and play kitchen, etc. There is a big sandbox for kids to play in. There are also lots of riding toys. There is another room with tons of toys. Another large room has fake grass and tons of fun active toys like tunnels, balance stones, balls, hula hoops, a giant size ConnectFour game, etc. The staff was diligently cleaning up as kids made messes and keeping toys organized. Highly recommend their open gym for parents of toddlers.

Regardless of whether you chose The Well for child care or not, it's a fantastic location for play…read moreon the weekends during open gym (8am-3pm). My daughter loves it there so much that I decided to book her 2 y/o Birthday party there.

Our family has been part of Hickory Hill Academy (HHA) since its founding in 2020, and we've…read morewatched the school grow and evolve. Starting a new school during COVID was no small feat, and while there have been occasional missteps--what school doesn't have them?--HHA's commitment to improvement stands out. Challenges are met with reflection and growth, ensuring lasting progress. The administration, faculty, and staff are deeply dedicated to HHA's mission. This isn't just a school for academics; it's a place that fosters character and community. My kids love attending, and the sense of belonging is incredible. From hugs shared during Community Circle to my daughter having besties in every grade in the school, it's clear HHA is building a kind, inclusive community. If you're looking for a school where your child can thrive academically and personally, HHA is an amazing choice.

We did the summer on the farm camp and it was extremely disappointing. My daughter was indoors most…read moreof the day doing school work and only did a couple of the activities that were advertised on the website. We thought she would be outside most of the day, but they only do one small activity session in the morning and a second one in the afternoon. Each week is the same activity. My daughter did not have the opportunity to do any of the activities she was excited about (and that we paid for).

Inappropriate daycare center the way me and my children were treated. They wanted services for my…read moreyoungest daughter there who is waiting on a second opinion requested by services this daycare recommended and pushed for a evaluation. The evaluation they asked for refused to provide services. After that they have been inappropriate. They won't give you incident reports or you have to push for them. One time my child needed X-rays from a possible finger that could have been fractured, this happened right during different long emails from Elina complaining about my 2 year old. and the other two were bodily fluids involved, I never got written incident reports and unknown if the other parents with children in the room received them. As we left today their worker worked, Elina, parked my vehicle with my children in and made us wait for her to get done then smiled at us knowing my autistic child just had to leave her daycare she is established with as her everyday routine and her worker that was there and me as a single mother might lose her job today. She drove very close to my car with my children in it. I take off work for this childcare center even if my child needs a bandaid put on at their request but no incident report give. They said if they call or put it in the app that is all they are required to do. Also if they have a hard day I pick them up leaving my employment. Because I was in a car accident that was a surprise financial burden and another thing that was being fixed well known by the owner they added more pressure by kicking my children out permanently and unexpected this morning. They use a excuse of payments but know very well they were getting paid and their transactions I was looking through because according to their statements I over paid them last month and wanted to clarify on this. They also said if a parent is late they can't return until the funds are paid, wrong they terminated my children today completely even though I was paying my co payment today. I dropped my children off with no knowledge of them not being able to be there today, prior evening was given a amount to pay and was emailed after I left and almost to work to turn around and get my children. The ladies in the office couldn't give me the incident reports I asked for again today. They got paid from the state already this month. They refuse to report many things unless forced by the state laws of reporting. Wisconsin Shares Child Care Subsidy Program paid them this month and my children didn't receive that amount of time of care. I wouldn't trust this childcare center and what happens behind closed doors. Also you pay a tuition fee over 200 a month. They had me bring lunches, snacks, and breakfast for my children and wouldn't even feed it to them half of the time. Would sit out in room temperature most of the time wasting our grocery money.

I really appreciate all the services the childcare center provides. All organic food, cloth…read morediapers, an educated and caring staff and so much more. Thank you, Casa!

Love, love, love this preschool! My daughter is a challenging and spirited 3 1/2 year old who has…read moresome separation issues. This has made it hard for me to find a daycare that she enjoys and that I feel good about. This place is amazing. Sweet and educated teachers, great classrooms filled with many creative ways for kids to learn through playing, two gorgeous playgrounds and a chicken coop! The kids go on lots of field trips, go to the garden and help with the chickens. I'm so glad she loves her new school!

We have been thrilled with UADC's care for both our kids. UADC's incredibly caring teachers, the…read morearts-focused specials, and the amazing chef-prepared food makes us feel so reassured that our kids are getting everything they need in a daycare setting. The play-based learning approach and socio-emotional support have been superb. UADC has handled the COVID situation with very close attention to detail and are always open to input and feedback from parents. We couldn't be happier with our decision to enroll our kids.

We have been so happy with our son's experience at UADC. You'll find a compassionate and committed…read morestaff here. Also, the space is truly amazing. The classrooms area huge, there is a separate lunch space (with cloth napkins!), and an enormous "running room" for cold weather days. Additionally, breakfast, lunch and snack are made right there by the talented chef. There's yoga, dance, Spanish and more for all the kids during the week.

We just absolutely love the Learning Gardens. My daughter started when she was 8 months old and the…read morenewborn teachers, Ms. JJ and Ms. Breanna were just amazing with her. Their excitement and energy every morning at drop off just made my heart so happy knowing that they were genuinely happy to see her! Now she is in the 1-year-old classroom with Ms. Maddie, and to see the joy on my daughter's face at drop off is just the best! Maddie is so wonderful with Blake and I just love hearing all the stories about her day/accomplishments at pick up! They do a great job of sending updates throughout the day, and our favorite part are the photos they share! And the chef and kitchen menu is awesome! It always smells so delicious at drop off and they give the kids a great, healthy variety of foods. Last thing is, even from the beginning, when I would drop her off, ALL of the teachers would greet Blake by name as we walked down to her classroom. How special is that?? Couldn't be happier that my daughter gets to go to daycare here!

My son went here for two years and completed his 4K through their program. Such an awesome place!…read moreHe absolutely loved his teachers and had such a fulfilling experience. I really loved how many great activities they add into the normal day. Truly a great learning environment!!

My son just started out here. He's adjusted great to the place. We were worried as he was in a…read morehome-based program for a year (Careplus Fitchburg, great place too, but the hours didn't work for our schedules) and thought that he might not like the change. However in less than a week he went from apprehensive about the new place, to loving to go to school in the morning. If you ask him if he had fun at school today he'll answer something like "yes..... read books, danced, played in sandbox!!' (which is a pretty articulate response for a 22 month old). The staff is attentive/fun/well qualified and the facility is amazing (huge sandbox, lots of playgrounds, a track for wheeled vehicles, nature trails, gardens, a rubberized indoor play area for rainy days etc). They also feed the kids good healthy meals (my 22 month old ate a ton of asparagus, one of his favorite foods, the other day). I should also point out that they are a NAEYC and Youngstar 5 star facility, so no worries there.

From the owner: We provide full day, 5 days/week child care for infants through 4K. We also have an after school…read moreprogram for those in 5K through 3rd grade. Open 7:00am - 6:00pm Year Round

This is one of the best places to send your child for a great education. My kids love it.read more

My son attended this school for two yrs prior to entering kindergarten…read more I can't say enough about this facility and the staff. The impact they made in his life continues to echo yrs later!