We sent our daughter to CHMS for three years, and we'd do it again without hesitating…read more The education is excellent. She left reading and doing math at a level we couldn't have imagined for a five-year-old. What makes it work is that CHMS makes learning feel fun and intuitive rather than forced. Some of our most cherished memories of these years are of her coming home excited to show off something she'd written or a math puzzle she'd cracked. The administrators, teachers, and staff are friendly, accessible, and accountable. Communication is consistently clear, an app makes messaging simple, and our questions have always gotten thoughtful answers. When there's a bumped head or a similar incident, we hear about it promptly and in real detail. Not once in three years did we wonder whether our daughter was safe, whether her time was being spent well, or whether someone who cared about her was paying attention. The school also hosts back-to-school nights where parents meet one-on-one with their child's teacher, along with other chances to observe your child at work in the classroom -- a rare gift, and something we'll always be glad we got to see. The community events are lovely. The children put on a concert every winter and spring, and there's an annual pizza party and a trike-a-thon where the kids show off their cycling skills while raising money for a good cause. These are the occasions where we got to watch our daughter with her classmates and teachers and see how much she'd grown. CHMS is thoughtful about food, too. A monthly calendar lays out exactly what's being served each day, the meals are genuinely healthy, and lunch here meaningfully broadened the range of foods our daughter will try at home. CHMS has never been merely a place that watched our child during the workday. It's a caring educational community that helped her flourish, and one we've felt privileged to be part of. We'll miss it dearly as we head off to kindergarten this fall -- though we're thrilled at how ready she so clearly is for what comes next.

We couldn't be happier with our experience at CHMS! We had two children enrolled and from day one,…read morewe knew they were in wonderful hands. The warmth, kindness, and dedication of the staff are unmatched. Watching our youngest flourish in such a nurturing environment and seeing our oldest build the confidence, curiosity, and skills needed for kindergarten has been incredible. CHMS has truly laid a rock-solid foundation for their early education. We are so grateful our kids had such a wonderful experience and recommend CHMS to any parent looking for an exceptional early childhood experience!

We started our son in public school for kindergarten, but halfway through the year, we became…read moreunhappy with the experience and began looking into other options. The lack of communication, heavy screen time, and the way our son was feeling about himself made it clear that we needed a change. He would often come home saying he was a "bad kid" because he kept getting in trouble at school, which was hard to hear as a parent. Switching to Full Circle Montessori has been one of the best decisions we've made for our family. The difference in our son was noticeable within a few weeks. He's much more regulated coming home from school, and we've seen a noticeable boost in his self-confidence. One of the first things he told us after starting at Full Circle was how nice the teachers are he said they actually talk to him instead of yelling. That shift alone was huge for him, and for us. Academically, he was at the top of his class in public school, but that often led to boredom. Since he wasn't being challenged, he would try to socialize, which would get him in trouble. At Full Circle, he learns at his own pace with a hands-on approach that keeps him curious and engaged. If you have a child who isn't thriving in a traditional school setting or struggles with the sit-still-all-day model, we can't recommend Full Circle Montessori enough. It's been a truly positive and empowering experience for our son and for us as parents.

Choosing a preschool for our child was very hard, especially coming from overseas. Today we are…read morevery happy with our choice of Full Circle Montessori School. The teachers and staff have consistently exceeded our expectations in making our child adjust to the new environment and making learning fun and engaging. Adjustment time was needed (very sensitive child)to fit into a new environment. But with a welcoming and comforting environment, our child adjusted to school very well. Also, with the thoughtfully designed curriculum that promotes both academic readiness and essential social-emotional skills, our child is very excited about going to school every day now. Communication with parents is superb; the scheduled updates and photos make us feel connected and informed about her activities. The facility itself is bright, clean, and safe, offering a wonderful space for the children to explore and play. We highly recommend Full Circle Montessori School for families seeking a positive, enriching, and high-quality early childhood education experience.

We have been at LB since our child was a 4 month old infant (she is now 3 years). We originally…read moreapplied thinking she would be offered a spot around 3 YO but we hit the jackpot when the stars aligned and we got into the infant class. I will summarize the pros and cons at the end for those who don't want to read all this so you can just scroll to the bottom. We were drawn to LB because of the smaller feel and that it's not a corporate daycare. It's a non-profit so we are happy our tuition goes to the teachers, staff and for capital improvements. The ratios are the lowest anywhere. (E.g., It was 2 infants to a teacher and even in her 3 YO class now, only 3:1). We have really seen our girl blossom into an intelligent, playful, inquisitive and polite toddler. She loves her teachers and her friends. In fact, all the kids whom I met are all well adjusted, polite and social kids, which I think is a testament to the Conscious Discipline philosophy this school adopts. I also don't call it a daycare... in my opinion, it's a school. My daughter has known all her colors and shapes before she was 2 years old. She now knows how to recognize some letters and numbers. She can count and understands not just the numerical order (like memorizing the 1, 2, 3 song) but she actually grasps the concept of basic math. Like counting her toys or berries for us. There is weekly music classes and she sings and dances a lot. We also love the learning through play mantra. They go outside in all weather (unless it's unsafe). I love how my girl isn't afraid of dirt, bugs or puddles. She embraces the elements and outdoors and we think this is a positive for her life. It's a WONDERFUL place and we are so happy here. (Since we have enrolled, we've been offered other spots in Bright Horizon and LAA but we cannot move her because she's thriving at LB). There is no screen time at this school unlike some other places (as a parent, screen time is not beneath us but if I am paying someone to watch my kids, built in screen time is not cool). Pros: smaller/intimate school; lots of opportunities to meet other families thru school planned events; wonderful teachers; great/easy location with parking; non-profit; small ratios; learn thru play and conscious discipline philosophy; kids who will love the outdoors and is curious about life... we always have oxyclean on hand because her clothes are dirty from a fun day of play Cons: it's a coop (so some volunteer hours required but nothing unmanageable); lunch from home on Thursdays (lunch is included rest of the week); mandatory fundraising contribution per family (not a ton of $$$ but about $150-250 per year); they follow APS' conservative weather closure policy for the 1st day (if more then 1 day weather event, the director has discretion and she usually tries to open school by 2nd day if staff can commute in... this isn'tuncommon but my colleagues big bad corporate daycare never closes so I am envious those days)... I have a toddler who doesn't stop talking and sometimes claims that the "light was red" (she's right but she's also looking at the light on the other side of the intersection!!!).

We've been part of the LB school for over a year and have been so thankful to find this community!…read moreWIth one child enrolled and another soon to be enrolled, we fully trust the administration, teaching staff, and parent community. The daily activities/weekly themes are creative, educational, and fun. The meals are varied and nutritional. Plus, the outdoor time at playgrounds and neighborhood walks are a huge bonus. The music and Spanish classes every week also make for a well-rounded experience. We looked into many programs in Arlington and have never reconsidered our decision after enrolling at LB. Our child is truly so happy to go to school each day.

Busy Bee is one of Northern Virginia's best early education centers, masked as a cozy, inviting…read morecommunity school. The director is phenomenal, with an engaging curriculum for each age level and a teaching staff that has been with the school for many years. Each teacher is also exceedingly kind. Beyond kindergarten readiness metrics, where Busy Bee excels, it is a fun place to go to school! Over decades, Ms. Rocio has built a strong, inclusive sense of community. With both top marks in parent and child endorsements, we couldn't recommend Busy Bee more highly.

Excellent school with very caring, attentive and loving staff. This place is truly special. The…read moreonly drawback and reason they get 4 stars and not 5 is because an entire Hispanic staff, speaks no Spanish to the kids. I begged them for years and they never did it. Still good people but deprived my child of learning another language.

St Charles is the perfect place to send your PreK children. There are not many options for 2-year…read moreolds and this has been a blessing for our daughter. After just a few weeks, we noticed an improvement in her social and motor skills. The school is also nestled next to a bunch of cafes so if we show up early for pick-up, there are plenty of places to wait while enjoying a lovely croissant and latte. Unfortunately, the rumor is that the school will be closing after next year. :(

My husband and I are continuously impressed by the quality of the teachers at St. charles; our kids…read morelearn a lot and very much enjoy school. We wanted to share some stories that highlight why we appreciate the school and it's wonderful teachers ... Today our son, Michael, recited the entire Lords Prayer and was so proud of himself :) We very much appreciate the wealth of religious knowledge they gain at school whether it's saying grace or learning biblical stories ... Michael often requests that we take a trip to China. When he asked again today, our daughter, Brianne, started singing "Ni Hao Parker". We couldn't believe it!! We are so appreciative of the education on diversity they receive from their teachers who do an excellent job discussing different countries, cultures and languages with them!! There are countless similar stories ranging from their teachers working with them on motor skills or learning basic skills/concepts or exploring various topics. The school is also very flexible and supportive of our family given that both my husband and I work full time! I would highly recommend this school!

My daughters went to Tender Roots when it opened in 2006. We found the atmosphere to be…read moreoutstanding for young minds to develop in a way that made the children want to learn, experience new things and explore. While the original founder, Dusty Rummer, seems to have moved on, looking at the available pictures seems to indicate that her vision and method are still in place, and have been expanded upon. If that's the case, then I would recommend Tender Roots for an early childhood educational venue without any hesitation. My now teenaged girls loved it, and have fond memories of it.

Tender Roots is wonderful, a gentle beginning for your child into exploration and a school…read moreenvironment. There's free play, circle time, exploration, snack, studio time, yoga, music & movement and playground fun! Being able to see your child engage and explore with peers ranging in ages from 9 months to 3 is priceless. One of the biggest comforts is the connections made with parents, increasing each year into a supportive and collaborative community, that stays with you beyond your time at Tender Roots.

My son has been at AMH for the past three years and we could not be happier. He is a second…read moregeneration AMH student - both of his uncles went in the early 90s. While to school is a bit larger today then it was in the 90s, the core values and overall feeling is still the same. Ms. Christine has been wonderful for our son and helped him grow both academically and socially while still allowing him to be his true self. We feel he is ready for elementary school and that is a true testament to AMH level of education.

This is a wonderful Montessori school. We love the intimate atmosphere, the beautiful home-y…read moreclassrooms, and the fabulous Guides, assistants, and staff. It is the only AMI certified primary Montessori program in Arlington and, as the AMI certification reflects, it is a very high quality program. Since starting the program, our child has thrived and learned so much. We appreciate the focus on independence, concentration, and following the child so they learn at their own pace. It is such a great school!

The school has a charming, intimate setting in Courthouse and an amazing sense of community among…read moreteachers and families. Quality and tenure or staff is great. Having experienced a larger, more expensive childcare center as well, I think the quality of care and value at CIS are exceptional. Highly recommend!

I had the opportunity to work at this beautiful school, and I can share that behind those red…read moredoors, the staff and administration make a wonderful effort to make each child feel like a second family. It's a place where early childhood education is approached with professionalism and a commitment to helping children develop their cognitive, cultural, and most important, their social skills. There may be schools with more technology and innovations, but none as welcoming, cute and unique as Childrens International.

An amazing church that does so much good for the community with thriving programs for all ages…read more They welcome everyone- seriously! It's inclusive and friendly. Their Christmas Eve services are the best in Arlington- vibrant, meaningful and kid-friendly.

I started going here around 5 years ago. I love it because of the variety of services, there is…read moresomething for everyone. An 8:30 traditional service for early birds. 9:30 Sunday schools for all age groups and interests. Then there is an 11:00 traditional service. During that time there is a modern "rock" worship service downstairs in the fellowship hall. I usually go to the 11:00 traditional service. The choir sings beautifully with voices from soprano to bass. The pastors are skilled and welcoming. Also, the acolytes are very skilled. There ministries are very good especially the massive operation of community assistance. I recommend this service to all people looking for a new church.

We highly recommend this school. The teachers and school Director are excellent. The staff are…read morecaring and passionate about their jobs. We sent our older son her for two years and our younger son will attend for three years. They have full and 1/2 day options and provide lunch (family style, which is great). Easy drop off too. Highly recommend.

My son has been attending Kinhaven for two years. The school emphasizes social-emotional growth and…read moredevelopment, and the teachers are outstanding, showing kindness and patience with all of the children. I highly recommend this school.