Very disappointing experience -- I would not recommend this summer camp.
The website is beautiful, polished, and gives the impression of a professional, well-run facility. Unfortunately, the reality was very different. The facility itself felt old and outdated, and the experience did not match what is presented online or what you are promised when you call.
Before enrolling my 5-year-old, I specifically explained that he needs time to adjust to new environments, new people, and new routines. I was assured multiple times that the staff was trained to work with children who need extra time to adjust. I also discussed this with his teacher at orientation and was again assured they would accommodate him.
Within the first few days, however, the concerns began:
* Day 1: I was told he had eaten lunch, but his lunch bag was completely full when I picked him up. Staff had apparently assumed he ate because the other children were eating.
* Day 2: I was called and told he wasn't following instructions properly -- despite them knowing from the beginning that he needed time to adjust.
* Day 3: Staff couldn't find the clothes he arrived in, and he stayed in his karate uniform all day. This raised serious concerns about supervision.
* Day 4: I was told to pick him up because they "couldn't work with him."
What upset me most was not that my child needed some extra patience. He is five years old. What upset me was that I clearly communicated his needs before enrolling him, was assured they could accommodate him, and then watched those promises disappear almost immediately.
He deserved patience, understanding, and respect. Instead, I felt he was treated like an inconvenience because he didn't immediately adjust to a new environment.
The one positive experience was with Mr. Harold, the karate instructor. He genuinely enjoyed working with my child, described him as a good kid, and was surprised that we were withdrawing him. Unfortunately, that positive experience was not enough to overcome everything else.
I also had to wait weeks for my refund and discovered that I had been overcharged when I initially enrolled.
As a parent, this experience was heartbreaking. My child actually enjoyed going there, and I wanted him to have a fun summer, make friends, and learn something new. Instead, I felt that he was not given the patience or respect he deserved.
A nice website and reassuring words on the phone are not enough. Parents are trusting you with their children. The care, supervision, and treatment of those children should match the promises being made.
Based on our experience, I would not recommend this summer camp and would encourage other parents to look beyond the website and ask very specific questions before enrolling. read more