I would not recommend this UPK program based on our experience. I truly feel that their UPK privileges should be removed, given that it is a state run program. After requesting an evaluation through the Clarence Central School District due to concerns about how our child was being treated, we noticed a significant shift in how staff interacted with him. He began receiving multiple incident reports for very minor, age-typical behaviors (tapping a pencil on his arm, lightly poking his arm, rubbing an object on his leg). Instead of being redirected, he was repeatedly removed from the classroom and sent to the office. In one week alone, he was made to sit alone at lunch 4 out of 5 days for things like: * Crushing a few fruit loops instead of using it for an activity * Calling a classmate "bucko" * Making noises/tapping his foot * Pretend play with Legos He was also disciplined for pretending to "arrest" a friend during play. Additionally, nearly every day at pickup, staff would go over negative behaviors in front of our child often for very minor issues, rather than discussing them privately. This was extremely discouraging and, over time, clearly impacted how he viewed himself at school. Staff described him as "sweet," "kind," and "non-violent," which made what happened next especially concerning. We received a call claiming he had "punched 8 kids in a row" and needed to be picked up immediately. When we later reviewed the video (we have the footage), it appeared he was lightly tapping other children, almost as if counting, not acting aggressively. We absolutely understand that keeping hands to himself is something to learn, but the situation was escalated far beyond what seemed appropriate. While, my husband was at the school reviewing the footage Mary Beth can be heard in the video he recorded that she nor the teacher reviewed the footage after the incident they just assumed his guilt. They repeatedly told him he hit other kids until he admitted it and started to believe he did (which he didn't). Rather than an apology from Mary Beth after reviewing the video, she chose to tell us he was no longer welcome at Little Red School House. Other concerning moments: * I personally witnessed a teacher say "ugh, not you again" to him and take a utensil out of his hand in a rough manner * He came home saying a teacher used inappropriate language * An incident initially described as "spitting in a teacher's face" was later clarified by the teacher as accidental blowing a "raspberry" Most concerning was the emotional impact. Our child began saying:"I'm a bad kid at school,""The teachers don't like me,""They yell at me all the time,"and described Mary Beth as "scary." Additionally, professionals we consulted with described the program's approach as feeling more like a "boot camp" environment for young children, which we found very concerning for a UPK setting. At 4 years old, children need guidance, patience, and redirection not repeated removal, isolation, and labeling. Every child is different, but based on our experience, this environment felt overly harsh and not developmentally appropriate. Families should be aware and ask detailed questions about how behavior is handled before enrolling. read more

The school is incredible and my child is way ahead of other kids her age. The owners and workers are all fantastic people. The teachers are great and my daughter loves them. Field trips are fun. Progress reports are very insightful and provide great feedback and learning opportunities. Great way for our child to also make friends her age who she often runs into at the pool, playground, or kids events. read more

Our son has thrived so much since coming here. He is learning so much respect, and we haven't seen that change in any other place. Little Red makes sure that out son does his homework, enjoys socializing, and really respects those around him. His old daycare seemed to teach him to not respect authority. I can't believe the change. He loves it here. I can't recommend it more. They love the kids, and our son loves being there (even that he has to do his homework!) read more

My son started going here after 4 years at a large, well established daycare. He was not new to school but we moved him thinking there was "more" for him. I had heard mixed reviews- people either loved it or hated it. I should've listened. The fall seemed fine- communication was very minimal due to covid etc but I never heard a peep from the staff about any concerns with my son. They said he was sweet and always polite. I called his teacher in October to check in - who also stated he was doing great. There were a few times that I could see how rigid they were. Even as an adult at drop off i always felt they were trying to "school" me about something- how I opened the door, where my son changed his snow boots. It was always something but I tried to brush it off. I tried to brush off overhearing one of the owners snapping at my son to answer "yes or no". Like a drill Sargent. My son never smiled when he went. Flash forward to mid January. I get a frantic call from miss Peggy. She called to tell me that she snapped at my son that if she had to hear the teacher tell him one more time to listen, she'd pull him out of the room. She says she did and then she "yanked him" out of the room. Her words. I wrote them down in my phone as she was speaking. She told me he has a "flat affect" (he's VERY shy). She proceeded to put him in time out for 30 minutes (her description - not my son's who was too traumatized to ever speak to me about what happened). I tried to be receptive and listened to her, saying we'd speak with him. We were truly in shock as again, I'd never heard a word from them the entire year and in the 4 years my son was in daycare never had them even call home to say anything negative. The next day I called and spoke to the UPK teacher who also had absolutely nothing kind of nice to say about my son. He cried for hours that night and I never sent him back. I post this wishing I had seen reviews like this when I was choosing a school for my son. I've met so many people now who have had the same experience. This place is horrible and I'll have nightmares likely for years from the guilt of sending my child there read more

When you think of preschool, you think of a warm, friendly place where your children are welcomed with open arms and where they are encouraged to learn and grow in a safe, respectful environment. Let me assure you, this place is not that place. Maybe I should have considered a different school when, during my first tour there, the owner Margaret was complaining to me about another parent who she identified as "a piece of work" because she could not potty train her 3 year old daughter. Perhaps I should have pulled my kids out of school when Margaret berated me in the middle of the school's parking lot, in front of other families, repeatedly telling me that my children "are not ok" because their speech wasn't up to their standards, even though our board certified pediatrician assured us that they were indeed "ok". Perhaps I should have pulled my kids out of school when we received a handwritten note home from one of the teachers complaining about my 2 year old son's orthotics and how he "peed a lot all over the floor". Or maybe it was on the 2nd day of school, when I was 2 months postpartum with my youngest, when Molly yelled at me in front of other parents screaming "you need to walk away mom!" as I was comforting my 2 year old who was having a hard time transitioning to school. She even ran outside after me to continue to yell at me in front of a line of parents, children and my husband. Maybe then I should have pulled them out of school. But no, it was Mary Beth that made our decision for us after I brought some concerns about pickup/drop off to her attention. On the phone she agreed with me, told me that my concerns were valid and said their communication can be better. A few hours later I receive an email stating that our childcare agreement has been terminated effective immediately, with no warning, no conversation. Just an email. The night before they are supposed to attend school the next day. Kind? Professional? Not at all. Is this accommodating (as they keep claiming to be)? Absolutely not. There was no indication that termination would even be a possibility as she told me she would schedule a meeting with all of us to discuss this issue further. I hope the faculty and staff enjoy the ornaments I took the time to hand make for them for Christmas. Ultimately, and most importantly, their decision hurts 2 very kind, very innocent little boys. And if that doesn't tell you all you need to know about this "childcare" establishment, I don't know what will. So many people warned me about this place and told me not to send my children here. Some of these people had similar experiences 20 years ago and the owners are still exhibiting this rude, unprofessional, unreasonable behavior today. So don't make the mistake I made. Believe the rumors you hear about this place. They are all true. Little Red is not a Christian or child-centered school. It's a management-centered school with decent facilities, and if you have special needs or concerns, don't expect them to care. read more

Terrible, truly horrible experience for our son and our family! Overall the staff was not welcoming. Margaret, Mary Beth and Peggy lack professionalism and are consistently rude. I would strongly not recommend! read more

A close family friend sent their 2 year old here and she was kicked out after 2 days for "not following directions". They were very hurt as any parent would be when their child is rejected. Isn't that what they are supposed to teach them in preschool? After reading the reviews, I think it is a blessing that they kicked her out. Beware parents! Do your research before sending your child anywhere that has control over the most important years of their life. read more

This place has gone down hill and it's completely due to ownership. They don't take the children into account when making any decisions. For example letting go of a long time beloved teacher mid school year with no explanation to the kids or parents. As a parent that is completely unacceptable and our children deserve better. Find a place where the owners actually care about what's best for the children. The teachers were the best thing this school had going and they're even finding a way to ruin that. read more

Everyone knows if you want your child to have a positive first experience with school and be best prepared for Kindergarten, this is where you come! There is a wonderful sense of warmth from the moment you walk in the door. Margaret, Mary Beth, Peggy, Molly and their staff want what is best for each and every child and it shows. We couldn't be happier with our decision to bring our child here! read more

Alumni here! We sent our daughter here for 3 years and now our son is a busy bee (2 yr old class)! This school and whole staff is exceptional at what they do! They are all so friendly and always greet you with a smile. This is NOT a daycare it is a school that is structured with lots of learning. Our daughter thrived and was ahead of other children when entering kindergarten. They knew she was a little red kid! Our son started very young but they have broken him out of his shell very quickly. He absolutely loves going and has been taught so much already! I honestly could never seen myself going to another school. There's a reason a family owned and operated business has been going for decades! read more

Please avoid this place. The owner and the staff are very rude and they are not nice to the children. the best thing I did is I change my daughter's school. I repeat if you love your kids, don't leave them in this place. Kids are not safe in there. read more

I started sending my son here a few months ago over the summer when I knew he had been accepted in to the UPK program in autumn, so he could get acclimated to the facility (and the facility get acclimated to him). Before listing this place as my 1st choice in Clarence's UPK lottery, I went to all the 5 lottery choices to see them for myself. The Little Red Schoolhouse impressed me the most when I noticed 3 little boys all quietly looking at books together. Before attending here my son went to Doodlebugs two days a week for socialization and my son never ever did anything quietly or sat still like that at school. I thought to myself, "If these sorceresses can make little boys be still and quiet and read, maybe they can make my kid do this too". My son has high functioning autism and he can test a saint's patience but so far... this place has really improved his behavior at school tremendously. I mean, from their perspective he still gives them the business but from ours as parents I can see how far he's come in a short amount of time and it's remarkable. These teachers know what they are DOING! It's a very structured environment which in most cases is great for kids. I was a little nervous for my own, who had famously been described as "self directed" (which is hippie speak for "does whatever the heck he wants to"). My son used to cry and cling to me when I dropped him off at Doodlebugs, he actually enjoys coming here. I pay for some wrap around care on two days and while they do charge a little more than other places, the VALUE OF WHAT YOU GET! They have special guests come like the Fire department with their truck, or in the summer they have horse days on Wednesdays. It seems like my son is always coming home with some bonus present, like at Halloween a pumpkin from their private pumpkin patch or the many, many arts and crafts he makes at school. This is not a place where you drop your kid off and they just keep them alive for a few hours. They really do have amazing lesson plans and activities planned every day for them, I love knowing my son is going to do something fun every day. And the things he has learned! In the few months since pre-k started he can read at least two dozen sight words. I practice his sight words at home with him and it's impressed me how he's sounding out the letters and really trying to read the words. He knows his numbers and is starting to count by 2's and can count down from 25. He's 4 years old! When I was 4, I was eating paste and I don't think I even know left from right. They really teach them a lot at this school but they make it so fun the kids hardly even know they are learning! I also like that they hold him accountable when he messes up. Sometimes it's embarrassing for me as a parent but I know these teachers only have my son's best interests at heart and want him to succeed as much as I do. I appreciate their experience because they have been teaching kids for decades. They don't have a lot of turnaround here with their teachers, which is awesome for the kids. Is it click-y? I don't think so, I honestly haven't noticed if it is. All I care about is that my kid is learning and behaving in an appropriate manner. They are a little religious, some minor prayer and bible stories happening but hey! I don't care if Jesus takes the wheel if it means my kid is starting to read! They do like to teach the white washed versions of history (I'm looking at you, Columbus Day) but I'm guessing that's the school district's curriculum. They have a large parking lot for drop offs/pick ups. I don't think they take credit cards, I'm under the impression it's cash/checks. They do let you pay by the week or month. This is one of the cleanest preschools I have been in locally. They have hand sanitizer in ALL the classrooms and all the kids have to use it entering the room. Overall, I continue to be impressed by this school, it's teachers, their lessons, and all the little perks they offer. They are trying to make the kids ready for kindergarten and elementary school so I appreciate how they are helping my son grow. We could not be more happy with how our son is doing here, this really is a fantastic preschool/pre-k place to send your children. read more

disgusting doesn't begin to describe the ownership of this place...as a physician who owns a private practice and has a small business, these women don't seem to understand what being professional actually is. I have witnessed them ordering staff around like they are children, barking orders at my wife like she's one of their employees/children, and talking negatively about the other parents like they are annoying/irritating them instead of supporting their business. I have other physician friends that have pulled their children out of this place for similar reasons. The owners mother is clearly demented, which is why there is such high turnover with staff. Our pediatrician and physical therapist have nothing positive to say about this place, and say that this type of behavior has been happening for 20 years now. There are so many other better places to take your kids, places that don't make you feel like such an inconvenience. The management here has no manners, no class, and don't care about kids. They are very strange people that don't know how to run a business. I will be posting reviews everywhere that I can and will 100% be reporting their discriminatory behavior to the better business bureau. I will definitely let everyone that I know how negative this place is. read more

Today I picked my kids up from camp at LRSH early (3:00). Not sure why I thought that would be okay with my kids LOL! I was sent away by them pleading with me to stay the whole day because they were having such a good time. My kids have been going there for 5 years. We have been through the full time program, the after school programs and summer camp. They love it! My daughter entered kindergarten in the Will No school district knowing all her sight words and able to read. At summer camp they are busy from the time I drop them until I pick them up at 5:30. The variety of activities and sports is excellent. I read the negative comment and have to say, I have no idea what they are talking about. The staff is amazing, very friendly & knowledgeable about my kids, and extremely nice. They go out of their way to greet you and tell you about something special my kids have done that day and I think the communication is really above and beyond what is expected. As far as the menu, it's posted right in near the kitchen. We check it everyday when we leave so the girls know what they will be eating the next day. I also really like the fact they celebrate holidays and birthdays and make your kids feel special. One of the things that makes this place so special is that it's not typical. They go the extra mile to make you feel wanted and your children special. I recommend them to anyone with children. read more

I was really disappointed in my experience at The Little Red Schoolhouse and with the administration there. The office staff are ALL related (mother and her daughters), and they are extremely cliquey, controlling and condescending. They all live right on the property -- it feels like a commune! There was a very exclusive (not in a good way) attitude shared by all staff. I could tell I was being judged from the moment I walked through the door for my tour, and everyone came across as phony and insincere. The owners refuse to give you information over the phone about whether they have availability for your child -- rather, they force you to take time out of your day to come tour the facility before they'll share any information about possible openings. I now understand that this is done so that they can screen the families, and decide whether or not they're WILLING to offer you a space. It's a very discriminatory practice; they are clearly only welcoming of those they deem "worthy." The communication is also horrible. You would expect that any respectable business would want to impress and cater to prospective customers (i.e. parents), as those customers represent potential business and revenue. Not the case here. It took MULTIPLE phone calls and follow ups to even get a response from them. They would take my information and promise that someone would get back to me -- and no one ever did. That should have been my first clue, but instead of walking away I continued to pursue it as a possible option for our child. Anyway, I took the tour and was required to fill out their paperwork before I would be given any information about availability. I NEVER heard back from them, not even to say "sorry, we don't have an opening right now." They just flat out couldn't be bothered to follow up with me, even after I'd devoted time out of my work day to take the mandated tour and fill out their forms. They clearly have NO respect for their customers, which is probably the worst business model I've encountered in this industry. Here are some of the other issues: 1) They serve food on site, but don't post a menu in advance. So you don't have the opportunity to review the food options and determine whether there is something you're not comfortable with your child eating that day -- you just have to take your chances. They don't post what the meal was until AFTER it's been served! 2) From what I COULD see about the food being served that day (and the few days prior to my tour), it's unhealthy. It looks like they just buy and serve whatever is the cheapest and most convenient to prepare (hot dogs and fries), rather than what is in the best interest of the children. There will also be a lot of sugar in your child's diet there -- they serve dessert (cookies, ice cream, etc) EVERY SINGLE DAY. 3) You have to purchase a mat and sheet for nap time; you are not permitted to bring your own. You also have to buy THEIR diapers; again, you cannot bring your own. $$$$ I've explored numerous child care centers and have NEVER encountered these types of policies. 4) They don't allow you to have an "authorized pickup" list. If someone other than the main caregiver is going to pick up your child, you have to provide them with WRITTEN notice in advance. This is problematic if the situation arises unexpectedly, e.g. if you get detained at work and need to make the change at a moment's notice. Most centers allow you to authorize 4-5 different individuals upfront to whom they will release your child, which is a nice convenience you can't get at Little Red. If you're looking for child care in the Clarence area, I would instead recommend DoodleBugs! or Carousel Academy. We have had experiences with both facilities and have been satisfied with both. If nothing else, I can attest to the fact that the parents are treated with respect and dignity, which is more than I can say for The Little Red Schoolhouse. read more

My son hated it here. I wish I would have listened to his crying each time I dropped him off...and made a change sooner. Chaotic environment, unhealthy processed food, rude owners. The only positive for us was the nice outdoor space. Would not recommend! read more

My daughter attended the Little Red Schoolhouse from age 2-Grade 3 for their after school program. I believe sending my daughter to LRSH was one of the best decisions in my life. She is in the honors program in high school and has already been told she is in line for a full tuition scholarship for college. The academic foundation and tutoring she received from the degreed Teachers at LRSH is just one of the reasons why we loved it there. Another reason was the family environment, the owner and 3 of her daughters along with 25 other teachers create a warm, family friendly environment that fosters creativity and fun. There was always and open door policy and parents are allowed to come and go whenever they want to even coming into the room and having lunch with their child, occasionally. My daughter blossomed at LRSH and I have recommended many of my friends to send their children there for the last 17 years. I am sure that after 33 years in business some people may try and find something to complain about but, while no place is perfect LRSH comes in at 99.9% in our family's book! Christian environment, educationally top notch, safe, clean, great food with menus that are posted on the bulletin board every day, fantastic field trips, amazing outdoor playgrounds and happy, smiling children! The price is right for the quality education where your child is #1! My daughter always felt special, loved and cared for. She cried only when I came to pick her up because she wanted to always stay and have more fun with her friends. As I prepare for my daughter's Senior year in high school I look back at her time at Little Red as one of the best investments I ever made! Thank you LRSH staff, and the Kiesel family. God doesn't allow us to pick our parents or family but, we are allowed to pick our children's PreSchool and thank God we picked Little Red. Congratulations on your 33 years in business and here's to another 50! read more

If there were 10 stars they would get them.. There is NOT a pre-school in the Buffalo/surrounding areas that could possibly be "better" than the Little Red Schoolhouse. Family owned and operated and everyone there is so involved with the children and day to day. A number of the teachers and aids were actually students there years ago and that tells you a LOT about the culture there. I have never in my life seen an operation that is so buttoned up. They are so caring and patient with the children yet are able to instil discipline and boundaries on an unbelievable level. My son who had zero prior experience in a structured program at 5 years old started going there when we relocated to WNY. He did not start until March and still advanced so quickly that it was scary in a good way! I will keep him involved with the Little Red Schoolhouse for as long as possible! They are an amazing family and staff. I can NOT say enough. If you are lucky enough to get your children into their program, DO NOT HESITATE. read more

I'll sum it up! -VERY click-y!! It's like you're in the movies, these moms know each other, and if you're not in their click then move over- it's like high school, you would have to see it to believe it! -extremely updated, air conditioned, wonderful environment! Everything is brand new, a generator even if power goes out, school is on! It's just gorgeous! -very nice up front reception staff!! -this really upset me!- gossip among staff regarding parents- yes, lots of these families are loaded with money and are probably a pain to deal with, but after a mom left, I was nearby and right away the staff member turned to another and was bad mouthing the mom about never coming on time and how she thinks she's entitled! Also I had talked to another staff member, and it came up in the convo about another un-named mom being dramatic about this and that, and she even rolled her eyes- you may not have named her, but it's awkward, gosh what do they say about me behind my back?! -another reviewer on another site stated that "yes the ratio is 15:1 but that means cramming 30 kids to a room with 2 adults, it's chaos" YEP, honestly that about sums it up! You think your child will get one on one attention? HA! Even in the morning when I dropped my kid off, sometimes it was just one teacher with 20 something kids, and I watched kids going into things the teacher told them not to, but she had other kids who needed her attention, so it was impossible for her to notice what was going on behind her! But, this school is full of cameras, the kids may not be watched the whole time but with all the cameras and door alarms, they're not getting out! - they're strict, in a good way! I have never in my life seen 30 3 year olds obey their teachers like these kids do, I was BAFFLED! Clearly they respect their teachers more than maybe their parents lol! Kind of kidding, but they will learn manners! - again, your child won't get one on one attention, if your child is up to par, I'm sure it will be a wonderful experience, but any incident/learning difficulty/issue that arises, like another reviewer from another site said- "they don't know how to talk to parents"- that's an understatement! - pricy, but you get what you pay for! Not as bad as I expected cost wise, and your kids will go to school with children whose fathers play with the Sabres! This is an ELITE preschool! - it's not for everyone- I think everyone's experience will vary depending on a lot of factors, and although we finished out the year (a few years ago) we didn't return, I wanted my child's voice heard, and to not feel like they're just a number, again it's not a big deal if they're not clingy/crying/delayed/slower paced learning, but if there's any issue, forget it! - the sicknesses!!! Ever said to yourself- I'll never put my kid in daycare with all those germs!- this place IS A DAYCARE or treated as one for lots of parents, kids are required a minimum of 4 hours 2x a week attendance, most are there ALL DAY a few times a week, or all week! Parents treat it as a daycare, and with so many kids and few teachers, you can see the runny noses! I did think it was great they made kids use hand sanitizer! But- there was no point when they went to a toy and sneezed on it, or you could see little ones with red cheeks, even a teacher had a cold- my child was sick ALL of fall and winter, thought she had a sinus infection, finally when they had Christmas break, it went away! But it's tolerated/ignored/not noticed when kids are sick, just like a daycare, until it's too late, and these parents are at work! It's a great preschool for some, but for a lot it's an awful preschool- as it was for us. To each their own! read more