My son Alexander started in Safari in Rathmines in September 2014 when he was 2.5. He had been in another crèche previously, however to say it was unsatisfactory would be putting it mildly.
From the very first visit I have been overwhelmed by the love care and professionalism of Gill and all her staff. On our first visit, we were show every square inch of the facility. There was not a single room we went into that at least one of the children didn't run into her arms to be smothered with kisses. In every room the children were being cuddled, snuggled, engaged with and loved by the staff.
The building is new, and the interior has been carefully thought out with the needs of the children to the forefront. It has both internal and external play areas. The baby room is lush, with a separate sleeping room which would move you to tears it is so peaceful. The wobbler room is full of fun. The 2-3 year age groups (unlike most other crèches ) are divided into two rooms to accommodate the sometimes wide physical verbal and behavioural differences between children at this age. This was a particular concern for me as in his previous crèche our sons development was not only stunted due to the failure of the management to facilitate his rapid verbal and physical development, but in fact his behaviour regressed to a considerable extent in the space of only a few weeks.
Pre -school (where he is now in the loving care of Vanessa and Cliona ) is a revelation. The curriculum is child led and children centered and the development in the children both individually and as a group since July is mesmerising. Recently Alexander spent a week in hospital, and on his return the girls and children held a "Welcome back from hospital party " on his second day back,with a cake freshly baked by Lorraine.
Ah Lorraine. .......what can I say? Her food is amazing, fresh, flavoursome, and fantastic. She is warm, playful and loved by staff, children and parents alike.
The ultimate compliment that I can pay came from Alexanders sister and friend (who were 6 at the time, and VERY mature girls ) when they viewed Safari with me. Having spent 90 minutes or so getting into every nook and cranny of the place they both solemnly announced as we were leaving that "we wish that we were young enough to go here ".
At the end of the day, Gill, Karon and all the staff have developed a community feel within the crèche, which extends to the parents and siblings of the children which I have never encountered before and which I am grateful for every evening when Alexander announces "Mom, I had a really great day today " .
Can't ask for more. read more
