My girls have been going to Longfellow for years. Both come home dirty, tired and happy just about every day. When my oldest graduated preschool, she was reading and was more than ready for her next step.
Other things we love about Longfellow:
-It's flexible: My wife and I are nurses with crazy schedules. When I told other daycares, they could not accommodate the inconsistency. Karen at Longfellow didn't hesitate. It was fine day to day. We do 3 days some weeks, 5 the next. Hours change. It doesn't faze them.
-The supply ALL the food: Snacks, lunch.. we bring nothing.
-"The Structure": There's a huge indoor play area with a structure like you'd see in one of those expensive jumpy places. Longfellow has a strong belief that kids need to move... a lot!
-It's fun!: There is structure to the program, but there's also a lot of free play, creativity and fun. If you're looking for a place where your kid is being directed on what to do every minute and come home spotless, this is not the place for you.
BUT, here's why we really love Longfellow: They really care. They love my kids like family. My sister passed away this week and the staff (Karen, Jen, TC!) have been saviors for us. They've kept the kids late so we could make preparations. They gave us books about explaining death to young kids and gave us pointers on the conversation. They've listened empathetically. Last night, Jen came over after work and, I kid you not, brought our family a week's worth of food.
The only disappointment you might have is not looking at Longfellow sooner. read more