Washington Park Early Learning Center

I am amazed by this school. The teachers are incredibly knowledgeable and experienced and it’s been fascinating to see them at work and learn about the developmental psychology behind every little detail in the program. Every day there are thoughtfully curated activities for each child to explore at their own pace and interest and every detail from the hello song, to the activities, to the playground to the snack times to the goodbye circle is informed by research. Two teachers and a parent everyday mean the kids get tons of guidance and attention when needed (only 12 in my son’s class). The results have been incredible. I had an extremely anxious, cautious child a few months ago who now has a bunch of friends at school, is socializing with kids he doesn’t know at the park, letting people into his space, drawing and painting without caring if he makes a mess, concentrating on complex tasks, “reading” books to his pretend classroom, singing songs, and making all kinds of abstract connections. Now he laughs when a tower falls over and says ‘its okay we can build a new one” and he doesn’t care if another kid steps on his sand castle at the park he called it “erosion” the other day. He loves, I mean LOVES, going to school. He cant wait. I think the school relies mostly on word-of-mouth rather than expensive marketing, and therefore is one of the best kept secrets in town. I would also say not to be intimidated by the “cooperative” concept - the actual time required is insignificant and the reality is it creates a social community and a great way to make family friends and set up play dates. Such a great place.

We have two children at WPELC (one in each class). The teachers are so loving and thoughtful. Our kids just love them. The school is play-based, but every activity is intentional and meaningful. The students learn so much through fun activities and I truly believe that our daughter will be more than ready for kindergarten next year based on her education from WPELC. Go take a tour to see for yourself!

Our youngest started at WPELC this year. It was her first experience being away from mom and dad and a little tough for her...BUT the teachers were amazing in helping her transition. She now gets sad on the days that she DOESN'T have school. The teachers are sweet, caring and extremely creative in the classroom. Wish I had found this school when my older ones were younger.

We are finishing our 6th year at WPELC with 2 kids. Our years there have given our kids confidence, social skills, kindergarten preparedness and amazing friends! The cooperative experience really does create a community of involved and engaged parents that can also have fun together. We would follow the WPELC teachers ANYWHERE and feel so fortunate to have each of them with our kids 2-3 days each week.

Having our son enrolled in the Preschool class at WPELC has been an incredible experience for our entire family. At his previous school, our son was constantly reprimanded for his "spirited" nature, making it a really hard experience for him. The teachers are so attuned to the needs of each of the children. They have created amazing experiences and personalized learning units to match all of the children's needs, which has helped my son channel his behavior into passion for building, creating, and exploring. He is so happy at WPELC, and has progressed astronomically. I couldn't leave a higher review for this school!