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Parent Testimonials
"We chose to bring our son to Children's Discovery primarily because
of the convenient location, the reasonable tuition rates, we liked the
learning curriculum and it just felt "right" when we visited the center
in Vadnais Heights. We had already been on tours at several other
daycare centers and Children's Discovery ultimately was the best choice
for us.
Since Aiden first began attending Children's Discovery, we have been
very satisfied. All of the employees are very caring and always keep
Aiden's needs in mind. We want him to be in a safe and clean environment
and Children's Discovery does just that, along with doing creative, fun
learning projects - even with the infants! I was amazed by the project
Aiden brought home for Daddy on Father's Day ~ very cute!
Also, Dawn, the Infant Room Lead Teacher, periodically updates me via
email with fun facts about Aiden's day at the center and occasionally
sends pictures of Aiden...it really brightens my day and it's fun to
hear how well he's doing at the center! As Aiden grows and develops, I
think he will benefit greatly from attending Children's Discovery."
Kristina of Mahtomedi, MN
Mother of Aiden, Infant Program
"My husband and I decided on Children's Discovery, a few months before
Ethan was born. We quickly decided Children's Discovery was the best fit
for our family because it was locally owned and operated. Giving back to
the community is very important to us and knowing that well respected
daycare was local won us over immediately.
My expectations for Children's Discovery and particularly his classroom
were that he be given lots of new experiences and cared about like he
was his teacher's child. Not only have these expectations been met, they
have been exceeded. I know Ethan is cared for and cared about as his
teachers share their experiences of the day with him when I pick him up.
And most recently when he had a rash and his teacher, Dawn, was so
concerned and asked me to call so she knew what was wrong, it
reconfirmed that Ethan is in the best place for him to learn and grow
and be safe.
Thank you for all you do to help children grow and for making us feel
like part of the family."
Kelly of White Bear Lake, MN
Mother of Ethan, Infant Program
"My daughter started at Children's Discovery approximately three months
ago and I am very happy that we chose Children's Discovery. The Infant
teacher, assistants and aides are great with my daughter. The staff is
very engaging with my daughter and the other children. The other
children in the classroom are very well behaved. My daughter always has
a smile on her face when I pick her up at the end of the day.
I was looking for a daycare that provided a nurturing environment for my
child. I was also looking for a daycare that provided educational
opportunities for my daughter. So far, my daughter is at or above her
developmental milestones and I think her time at daycare contributes to
Anna achieving her milestones.
I am happy to have chosen Children's Discovery and have recommended this
daycare to friends."
Maria of White Bear Township
Mother of Anna, Infant Program
"The staff at the center, especially in the infant room, goes above and
beyond our expectations on a regular basis. They keep an eye out for
those subtle little things that can often be overlooked. We hear from
them on a daily basis when we drop him off and pick him up about how he
is doing, what has been happening and the various experiences he has
everyday.
All in all, we are very happy to have Children's Discovery in our
neighborhood caring for our son. And we can tell he likes it too!"
John of White Bear Lake, MN
Father of Ethan, Infant Program
'We decided to bring our children to Children's Discovery after we had
some difficulties at our prior center. When we started at Children's
Discovery, we weren't quite sure what to expect. The teachers and staff
were really great during our tour but we didn't expect them to continue
to be so caring and involved after we started. Our daughter warmed to
the infant teachers right away, even though she usually is afraid of
strangers.
Our infant daughter has made so much progress during our few short
months at Children's Discovery. She loves to play with other children,
has learned to walk and can communicated by nodding and shaking her
head. She loves to read books, go for rides in the wagon and play
outside.
It is so nice to have the teachers tell you great things about your
children - instead of complaining about discipline issues like we have
had before.
Alison of Vadnais Heights, MN
Mother of Iris, Infant Program
"The staff are wonderful! We started at Children's Discovery seven years
ago. Many staff members who were working at the center when we started
are still there. There is very little staff turnover and that says a lot
about the organization.
The staff are patient, compassionate, flexible and are respected by the
kids and parents-they are great role models for kids of all ages. They
have gentle, but firm discipline techniques and work with the parents.
The teachers are liked and trusted so much, many are asked by parents to
babysit for them evenings and weekends."
Lisa of White Bear Lake, MN
Mother of Anthony, Infant Program; Kyle, Preschool Program; and Allison
School Age Program
"We decided to bring my son to Children's Discovery because it felt as
the "right place" safe, educational-oriented, clean and warm. My husband
and I are very happy with our son's development while attending
Children's Discovery. We truly believe that our expectations as first
time parents, concerned about their only son's safety, educational
development and child well being, has been met by the caring staff at
Children's Discovery."
Idolly of White Bear Lake
Mother of Jorgito, Toddler Program
"All 3 of our daughters began attending Children's Discovery Academy the
day I returned to work following maternity leave (our oldest is now 8
and still attends the school's wonderful after school and summer
programs.) The thought of leaving your precious child in someone else's
care is stressful for any parent. But the wonderful teachers and staff
made the transition to daycare easy & enjoyable.
We have always felt confident that our children are in a caring, loving,
environment that encourages creativity, participation and learning. The
teachers are not only excellent caretakers but also great advisors to
parents on topics related to their children. The calm, fun & loving
approach embraced by the teachers and staff at Children's Discovery is
truly unique and greatly appreciated. It brings me great peace of mind
to know my children are so well cared for when I am to work."
Olivia of Little Canada, MN
Mother of Grace, Preschool Program; Emma, Prekindergarten Program; and
Madeline, School Age Program
"It is very rewarding to see how
much the teachers pay attention to the details of each child. We're very
pleased with our decision to have Samuel attend Children's Discovery.
The trained, long-term staff and excellent curriculum provide Samuel
with the ultimate learning environment."
Rhonda
Mother of Sam, Preschool Program
We heard about Children's Discovery from a co-worker whose son was
enrolled at the center. I wasn't sure what to expect at first. I loved
the location (literally minutes from our house) but was unsure about
leaving my baby with strangers. We started in the Infant room and were
overjoyed with the care/love that Kristi and Susie gave our baby! I
rarely felt the need to call and check on Morgan after the first few
weeks. I felt that she was safe and nurtured. That's all I could ask for
with our baby.
Last but not least, I have been amazed at what Morgan has learned at
only 3 1/2 years old. The curriculum is wonderful and they learn such
fantastic things at an early age. I feel like she couldn't get this much
from me. We are very pleased with Children's Discovery!
Ann of Vadnais Heights, MN
Mother of Morgan, Preschool Program
Before Ella was born, we researched dozens of daycares and toured those
we felt might provide excellent care. We chose Children's Discovery
because it was very conveniently located and we were confident after
meeting the teachers and the director, Jill, that Ella would receive the
best possible care in a loving, educational environment.
Children's Discovery met all of our expectations and has played a
critical role in the smart, funny and self-sufficient individual that my
daughter has become. We have been very impressed with the level of
professionalism and dedication everyone at the center shows on a daily
basis.
3 years ago, we moved and the location of the center became far less
convenient. However, we chose to keep Ella there and drive the extra
miles due to the excellent care she receives everyday.
Ella is excelling academically. At the preschool level she knows
numbers, letter, beginning reading and math skills, has excellent
vocabulary and most importantly - high self-esteem and respect for
others. Children's Discovery has played a key role in her development.
We could not be more pleased with the center and all of its stall.
Adina of Oakdale, MN
Mother of Ella, Preschool Program
Our son is enrolled in full-time daycare and started out in the toddler
room. He is now in the process of advancing from preschool to
prekindergarten. My husband and I have been very happy with Children's
Discovery. The teachers are excellent; the hours are flexible and most
important - we feel he is safe and learning new skills. We are fortunate
this school serves both breakfast and lunch. They have a clean
environment with a great outdoor play area. Many extra classes are
offered throughout the year which I highly encourage children to
participate in; soccer, computer classes and dance are some of our
favorite. We are expecting our second child and plan to enroll this baby
in the infant program too!
Amy of Little Canada, MN
Mother of Liam, Preschool Program
'We decided to bring our children to Children's Discovery after we had
some difficulties at our prior center. Our previous center lacked an
organized preschool program and we were looking for a more structured
program with lots of learning activities.
When we started at Children's Discovery, we weren't quite sure what to
expect. The teachers and staff were really great during our tour but we
didn't expect them to continue to be so caring and involved after we
started.
The preschool teachers took the time to work with our son and help him
adjust to the new changes and structure. Amber took extra time to
communicate with us about our preschoolers day and things we could do to
help him adjust. Amber ever took the time to call and let us know when
he had an exceptionally good day - which nearly brought tears to my
eyes! It is so nice to have the teachers tell you great things about
your children - instead of complaining about discipline issues like we
have had before.
Our preschool son has really benefited from the structure and learning
activities of the preschool room. Everyday he learns something new and
he love to come home and tell us about his day. He really enjoys the
field trips, water day and the learning theme of each week. He is very
excited to move up to the prekindergarten room in the fall. He is
actually excited to go to school every day, which is a very nice
change."
Alison of Vadnais Heights, MN
Mother of Gus, Preschool Program
"25 years ago, we
brought our son to what was then called 'Little Canada Child Care Center', at
the ripe old age of 3 years old. Karl was a shy child, who spent many of
his first mornings looking out the window as I left him there, crying his little
heart out. Of course, through time, he grew and blossomed into a very
social little person. He went to Kindergarten there, and was fortunate
enough to soak up every bit of knowledge that was put in front of him. He
graduated Kindergarten (complete with cap and gown) and we left a small
evergreen for the school. You may notice this tree now as you enter the
building. It is the one just outside the door.
As time went on, Karl married, moved to California, and had a son.
Happenstance brought them back to Minnesota and staying with us.
Imagine our joy when we learned that Little Canada Child Care was still
in business, now being known as Children's Discovery Academy of Early
Learning, and Karl's teacher, Jill Finnegan, was now directing the
programs there. We enrolled Dustyn immediately into Pre-K.
Again, Dustyn has
blossomed. Not only is he getting a "book learning" education, but he is
getting a Social Education. The staff is very attentive not only to each
child's educational needs, but are also very tuned in to what else may be
affecting that child. They are very willing and able to do what is
necessary to be sure that each child gets the attention that he or she needs.
I would be amiss if I didn't mention the dietary department. Cindy
makes the best sausages in town, according to Dustyn!
He actually told me that she is the best cook in the world. (Thank you Cindy!)
We would most heart fully recommend this program to anyone!!!
I wonder if in another 20 years, our Great Grandson will be attending?"
Nancy and Don of Saint Paul, MN
Grandparents of Dustyn, Prekindergarten Program
"We are very
satisfied and happy with the care that has been provided to my son who
has been at Children's Discovery for 5 years and my daughter who has
been here for 1 year! I really like the staff who is very friendly
and always cheerful! I highly recommend Children's Discovery to my
friends. Kindergarten program is specially good due to the 1:8
teacher/student ratio! My child gets a lot of attention!!
Thanks!"
Asha of Little Canada
Mother of Akash, Kindergarten Program
"My husband and I were very
fortunate to have found Children's Discovery, and are very glad that we
have sent our children through the program. Their self-esteem is high,
and I attribute much of this to the guidance, nurturing and structure of
the center. The teachers are experienced, kind, warm and have the
ability to teach the children respect, safety and so much more. I truly
believe by the experiences they have had through the preschool classes,
and then the wonderful Kindergarten program, that they have a solid
foundation that will benefit them through their school age years."
Carla
Mother of Rachel & Joseph, Kindergarten Program
"Rhiannon visited 10 preschools
and came up with a list of 3 possible choices. I visited the 3, and
ranked them independently. In retrospect, it is no surprise that each of
us chose Children's Discovery as our top choice. We have never been
disappointed. We have been very impressed at the skill, training level,
compassion, and nurturing of your staff. The longevity and extremely low
turnover of your talented teachers and staff speaks highly of your
program."
Scott & Rhiannon
Parents of Catherine & Megan, Kindergarten Program
"Both Christopher and Patrick
started at Children's and moved through the Kindergarten program. Both
boys have been tested as gifted and are making excellent grades. More
importantly, however, they are both very well adjusted and very social
young people. Your program worked great for us! I would not hesitate to
recommend your program (and in fact I have) to other parents.
Every day we see living proof of
the importance of Quality Early
Childhood Education. It builds the foundation for your child's social, emotional
and academic future. Quality, long-term teachers who understand the developmental
process of learning will be instrumental in assuring your child reaches
their fullest potential. Through positive reinforcement, encouragement, and
carefully selected educational materials, your child has an opportunity to
soar. Early Childhood Education is one of the most important investments
you can make for your child's future."
Jon
Father of Christopher & Patrick, Kindergarten Program
"27 years ago we brought our son to daycare at Children's Discovery. He
learned so much there and went on to being enrolled in gifted programs.
As it goes, he moved to California.
22 years later, HIS son came to live with us. Dustyn is in his last year
of Children's Discovery in the school age program. He started in
prekindergarten at that time.
Once again, Children's Discovery has provided a safe, nurturing peaceful
daycare that also has taught these children not only 'book-learning' but
'social learning'. The staff are incredibly tuned into what each child
needs and encourages them to grow.
Meals are fabulous, field trips are wonderful, parent involvement is
encourage, the administration is accommodating. I totally recommend
Children's Discovery to anyone that wants superb daycare!"
Nancy of Saint Paul, MN
Grandmother of Dustyn, School Age Program
Anonymous Comments From Our Parent Survey
"We looked at many day care centers. Children's
Discovery seemed to "feel right" for us. The teachers
seemed very engaging and professional. We also really liked the educational
activities and programs offered by the center."
"I felt welcomed into the center from the first day I
took a tour! It was warm and inviting. I immediately felt at ease about
leaving my child in your care."
"The school is clean and the teachers are professional.
Most important - I feel safe with my son at this
school."
"When deciding where to go for
kindergarten, I was excited to learn all the "extras" included at Children's
Discovery compared to the school district. A lot of the course work done at
the public school is stuff my child learned in pre-kindergarten at
Children's Discovery which was a huge factor in our selection process."
"We've had both of our daughters
enrolled at Children's Discovery for the last 5 years. We're very impressed
with the overall education that both have received while attending the
school."
"I love bringing my daughter to the center! I know she
is going to be safe and taken good care of all day. All of the staff is very
kind!!!"
