Sunday, July 18, 2010

KinderCare Learning Centers: Making Learning Fun

KinderCare logoUp until last year, Big Sister E had never gone to a class or participated in a program without me. Sure, we went to story times, music classes, swim lessons, play groups... but I was always there as well.

Worried that as she got older it would just get harder to get her used to being dropped off somewhere, my husband and I decided it was time for preschool. Nothing major, just one morning a week where she could start to gain a tiny bit of independence while having fun, meeting new friends and getting a feel for what school would be like in the future.

So, before I knew it, the first day of school (which may have been a little harder on me than on her) had arrived.

Was this just last year? I know for a fact she has long outgrown every article of clothing in this picture, including the shoes.

However, the time leading up to that day involved quite a bit of searching, both literally and figuratively. Was she ready? Was I ready? And where would she go? Was there somewhere nearby? What was the class size? How did I know the teachers were going to be dedicated and provide a safe and loving environment? As the questions built up, it all began to seem a little overwhelming.

In a nationwide survey of parents, KinderCare Learning Centers learned that when selecting a school, 76% of parents are most concerned that their school of choice employs quality and passionate teachers and 80% want to know that their child is excited to take part in activities while at school.

Yep, that sounds exactly right (and makes me wonder about the other 24% and 20%. They don't care about the quality of the teachers or if their child is happy to be there?). My goal was to find a place that was nurturing while providing quality education, curriculum and learning experiences that would help Big Sister E grow and get excited about school. And although I didn't know about it at the time, that is just what KinderCare Learning Centers believe in as well.

KinderCare is a preschool and kindergarten program with 1600 centers nationwide, offering age-appropritate curriculum, customized experiences and overall school preparedness. They not only provide a low teacher to student ratio and strong communication between families and teachers but they are committed to the future of each child's learning.

Combining their experienced staff with innovative programs unlike any other, KinderCare strives to provide an unsurpassed learning experience. With projects designed to excited children's imaginations, KinderCare's stimulating environment for toddlers, preschoolers and elementary school aged children helps teach that learning is fun.

And as they have over 40 years experience in childcare and education, KinderCare provides peace of mind so parents can feel confident in their choice. For us, there were a few rocky days in the beginning, but Big Sister E adores going to school and has had a great time building relationships with other kids and her teachers. I know that in our case, sending her to preschool was the best way to start off her education and prepare her to enter kindergarten and beyond with confidence. That's my girl!

To learn more about KinderCare Learning Centers and to find a location near you, visit their website.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of KinderCare Learning Centers and received a gift certificate to thank me for taking the time to participate.

4 comments:

missykade said...

Thank you so much for stopping by the Sunday Summer Social! It's our first week so people are just finding it. Hopefully more friends will find it and join in as the weeks go by.

Debbie @
http://lucasjourneyspd.blogspot.com/

Liz Mays said...

I considered them very seriously when I had my first. As it turns out, I couldn't do it. I just couldn't go back to work, so I didn't need them. But it sure looked nice there.

Jenna said...

That's a great idea to start by taking her one morning a week! What age was she when you started doing that? I have thought about doing that with Kaelyn when she's a bit older and am always curious how other parents handle the transition from being at home to starting preschool.

Cori said...

I hope your daughter loves her time at KinderCare!! Looks like fun!!

Stopping by from TTA!

Cori
http://corisbigmouth.blogspot.com