We are not first time parents, and have explored many different childcare options and Cheerful…read moreBeginnings is at the top of our list! Our son needed full time care due to our busy schedules working in healthcare and Julia was so wonderful accomodating our schedules. My son loved his teachers here and Julia's experience and education in childcare is exceptional. My son felt right at home and sometimes wasn't ready to leave at pickup! They have an organized curriculum, access to app for daily updates and healthy meal plans. I have already recommended them to my coworkers!

Cheerful Beginnings is the best daycare. My daughter started going when she was 5 months old. We…read moreare first time parents so we were so lost. Julia was so patient and supportive. My daughter LOVED going to daycare in the morning. We get detailed reports on feedings, naps, pictures and videos. The food they make is very healthy too. I'm so sad that we have to leave because we are moving out of state. There really isn't anything nearly as good as CB.

We love Little Acorn! My son started at 18 months and it was his first daycare experience. He…read moreacclimated pretty quickly and was fully adjusted in less than two weeks! The teachers in the toddler classroom as so sweet and caring, and we love seeing his smiling face at drop off and pick up. We pay extra for the lunch program but it is so worth it. Everything is cooked fresh in house and it really makes our lives easier. We would highly recommend Little Acorn and love their approach to teaching the little ones. They really try to incorporate a lot of practical life learning. Our son absolutely loves it. They are also very good about posting updates in the Procare app. We get to see when his diapers are checked and/or changed, when and how much he's eaten his snacks and lunch. We also receive at least one photo of him during the day.

Our daughter spent a year and a half at Little Acorn, starting from when she was 18 months old…read more It's a great daycare program filled with thoughtful and caring teachers, enriching activities, and overall, is a structured environment that supports the children well. In particular, I cannot say enough good things about Ms. Amanda's Toddler classroom. Our daughter came home weekly with beautifully crafted art projects and we received regular photo updates from the Procare app, which gave us peace of mind when she was so little. She also began potty training around 25 months old when Ms. Amanda noticed that she showed interest, and I attribute her potty training success to the consistent effort and support reinforced by her and the rest of the teachers. Another positive is that our very picky eater has been a big fan of the hot lunch program, which is cooked on-site (thanks Ms. Gene!) I would remove a star as there was quite a bit of staff turnover right as our daughter switched into the Pre-Primary classroom. This was unfortunate as the ever-changing staff made the transition more challenging for our child, and she had a bit of a regression. However, once Ms. Nona was instated as the main teacher, she was patient and worked with our daughter, meeting her at her level until she got over the hump. Though we're sad to leave Little Acorn, we're grateful that this program set our daughter up with such a great foundation. We will miss all the teachers at Little Acorn!

We sent both our now-7-year-old and currently-6-month-old to Almansor Center. It's been phenomenal!…read moreTo clarify, IRL is a large nonprofit that serves adults and children with special needs with a range of services; IRL runs a private elementary school (grades 3-8?) for children with physical and cognitive special needs on site, a site which was formerly a public elementary school; and alongside the Almansor Academy (the private school for special needs) is the Almansor Center / Early Education department. It's for neurotypical and special needs kids. The special needs kids are a small percentage, but I loved that my sons got to spend time with special needs kids who would be placed in a different class in public school. (Nonverbal, vision issues, etc.) This childcare for age 0-4 has almost zero online presence, which is why so few people know about it. But the other review explains how great they are. People from different neighborhoods send their kids. Check them out!

Our son attended Almansor's early education program from when he was one years old until he turned…read morethree, and he loved it there. We left to attend a school closer to us, and on our final day, we were all in tears to say goodbye because that is how much the programs staff and teachers mean to our family. From before our son could walk, and through every big milestone, the caring teachers at Almansor have supported him developmentally, emotionally, and academically. We love the teachers, especially Teacher Alexis and Teacher Mary who our son still talks about. They provide so much love and support, and we always felt comfortable and at ease with leaving our kid in their care.

We learned early on how incredibly important and foundational the learning ages of 2-5 were going…read moreto be for our son's growth. Until the age of two, we were able to nurture his love of creativity through art, get him engaged in reading and music, and keep him active and independent while learning at home, but his social-emotional growth needed a community like Modern Schoolhouse to truly develop. We met another family at his favorite playground that had an AMAZING experience at Modern Schoolhouse and their daughter, who was academically gifted and raised with similar philosophies, was thriving under their care. We enrolled and discovered for ourselves that Modern Schoolhouse was indeed an absolute gem for child development. Our son entered after turning two, and he was very shy/reserved at the time. The talking, dancing, singing, bilingual artist that blew us away with his funny ideas and love of learning at home, needed help expressing himself in the larger group. Over the next several years, Leonardo was able to grow and thrive his ability to emotionally self-regulate, from having a 'safe space' at home to being able to identify what he was feeling and how to 'calm his body,' to listening to others and respecting common space. What we didn't anticipate was not just the top quality of the school, the clean aesthetic spaces, and the exceptional teachers (Teacher Alicia from class 3 was truly amazing!!), but also the like minded and kind community that became a key part of our son's social life. During our son's first years at home, we studied Montessori, Waldorf, and Reggio Emilia- instituting some principles of each in our approach at home. It wasn't until we met Sue and her philosophies at Modern Schoolhouse did we see some of these same philosophies embodied in an American child care setting; and we must have interviewed or toured at 5 or more local schools before finding Modern Schoolhouse. The core beliefs consist of the idea that children are competent, capable, curious individuals with hundreds of ways of self expression. The role of the school and family should be creating a structured, clean, and aesthetic environment that is conducive stimulating exploration and discovery. Teachers in this sense guide and foster collaboration rather than just 'delivering information.' Giving our son a new challenge was hard at first, but Sue and her staff were quick to offer suggestions and outside resources so we could reinforce some lessons at home, especially around his development of social/emotional skills like managing anger, dealing with disappointment, and learning to communicate when he needed space. He also was given the chance to learn how to build relationships and have positive interactions with new friends. Each 'season' and month had different themes that would be clearly delivered in monthly/quarterly emails along with chances to meet with teachers on child progress in key development areas of language, tracing, use of scissors, how to put on shoes/jackets, counting, class participation/listening, and emotional self expression. By class 3 (3 years old and above), our son was giving 'show and tell' presentations, using the 'sharing bee' to discuss their weekend, and playing inventive games to stimulate imagination and curiosity. Through the use of brightwheel, we were always shown photos and videos of our son having fun with friends and doing some fun activity. The school also offered many events at the school such as the "annual art show," "parent and me" day, and music sessions from Teacher Gaia culminating in a student led music performance (the cutest!). This year all the 4 classes made their own animal costumes and acted out various Disney themes. It was extraordinary to see him flourish and thrive under Teacher Alicia in class 3, who is truly remarkable for her ability to connect to kids and meet them where they are on the journey. By the end he was more confident in his presentations and even singing his favorite Disney songs Karaoke style to the class! Everything ended on a wonderful note with his graduation and small speech to parents and the graduating class. We were given an opportunity for a graduation photoshoot and his 'family book' with messages from all of the teachers as a keepsake that he created during his time there. As he graduated before many of the others in class 3, everyone created a special hand painted art for him with with the handprints of all his friends. It is bittersweet to go onto the next chapter, but he graduated school scoring high in every single metric of development, and he easily was interviewed and accepted into an international private school. Thanks you for being such a key part of his childhood journey and we hope to stay in touch with Leonardo and our growing family!

Our son began attending TMS at 18 months old, and it was his very first daycare experience. We…read morecouldn't be happier with our decision. Initially, we had some concerns about starting him so young, but it quickly became clear that enrolling him early was the right choice. He is truly thriving--emotionally, mentally, and intellectually. The curriculum at TMS is incredibly well thought out. Each activity clearly connects to the weekly or daily theme, and we've seen real growth in our son's development. He's starting to learn the alphabet and has become much more verbal since he began. What stands out even more is how happy our child is at TMS. Every photo we receive through the app shows him smiling, and we always feel confident dropping him off, knowing he's in caring and capable hands. The teachers, staff, and owner (Sue) are exceptional. Our son absolutely adores his teachers and lights up when we mention their names in the morning. Even though he's usually very attached to us, he was so excited to see his teacher at the Annual Art Show that he practically leaped from my arms to greet her. That kind of connection is exactly what every parent hopes for in a school: a place where your child feels loved and supported. On top of all this, the school is extremely clean. Our son has hardly been sick, and we've noticed how attentive the staff is to hygiene--little ones always have their noses wiped, diapers changed very frequently and the environment is clearly well-maintained. TMS is far beyond a typical daycare--it's a place where our child is growing, learning, and genuinely happy.

I came across The Play Atelier when I was thinking about starting my daughter in school. Because of…read morethe pandemic, I was nervous about sending her too early, but I knew how important socialization would be. From the moment we toured the school and met Aremi, the director, I felt an instant sense of comfort. She has a true gift, and her love for what she does is genuinely felt. I knew right then that my daughter would thrive here. For a little over two years, my daughter attended this amazing school, and I was constantly surprised by how much she was learning. She would come home and show me new things that amazed me. Her absolute favorite part was the garden--she loved looking for bugs, but even more, she loved trying all the vegetables and fruits she watched grow each day. The teachers are all incredible--loving, patient, and trustworthy. And Aremi goes above and beyond, not only to nurture the children but also to have open and honest conversations with parents to ensure we have the information we need to make the best decisions for our kids. Choosing The Play Atelier was one of the best decisions I made for my daughter's early years. I wholeheartedly recommend this school to any parent looking for a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment for their child.

Writing Yelp reviews is not something I do easily. My time is valuable and frankly, I don't enjoy…read moredoing it. But the last almost two and a half years at Play Atelier has been so wonderful I felt compelled. My daughter started around age 2 in the "Sparrows" Room and moved through the "Magpies" and eventually graduated a "Robin". Throughout her school journey I found support throughout every new challenge, from sleeping in a new space to potty training. The space: I love their collection of learning toys, costumes, library and "feeling" corners. I'm sure I haven't seen it all, but the aesthetic of the space is beautiful and there seems to be something for every play and learning style. The playground: GORGEOUS! The play structures are well thought out and their garden is well-kept and thriving. They spent many days playing and picnicking, learning about caterpillars and harvesting kale. The food: We opted for full days with naps and meals. The calendar of food is varied while still taking limitations and allergies into consideration. All the food is prepared daily in the on-site kitchen and is planned and sent out in a weekly calendar. The staff: AMAZING. They seem to share the same "whole brain child" philosophy. We will miss all the teachers, but Miss Jackie and Miss Deybi hold a special place in our hearts. They were there from the beginning and grew with our daughter. Also communication is excellent as they use an app for meal, diaper/potty, nap and check-in/check outs among others things. They were always very responsive. I also often received adorable pictures of the day. Additionally, I always felt my daughter was safe and well-protected. Her wellness was paramount, along with the other kids, for the staff. We feel *SO* lucky to have found Play Atelier for our daughter. Even my older son says "I wish I had gone to that preschool". If it were open then, he surely would have! The owner, Aremi, clearly has put all her heart and soul into the space and it shows. If I could give more stars I would, but 5 will have to do!

My son has been at Celebration Kids for 3 years. Because they are open year-round, that's a total…read moreof about 1,000 days of amazing care, teaching, and community. Of those thousand days, I would estimate that I've seen him walk onto campus about six times. Every other day, he has SPRINTED through the gates to start another amazing day there. Couldn't recommend highly enough :)

Our daughter is in her third year at Celebration Kids, and we're incredibly grateful to all of the…read moreteachers and staff at CK for providing a warm, safe, playful, and enriching environment for her to grow. She has learned so much under the care of each of her teachers, made many close friends, and generally had a blast. Sara, the owner, is so generous with her time and has offered us invaluable support around the stressful process of planning for kindergarten, and many of our daughter's teachers have become beloved babysitters that we hope will continue to be in our lives for years to come. Everyone at CK is truly invested in the growth and wellbeing of the kids, seeing them for who they are and helping them really shine. And in addition to all of that, it's one of the most affordable preschools in the area, which is really the cherry on top. We love CK!

My kids have been at BTC for 6 years. Samantha is a great business owner and does an amazing job…read morecreating programs for the kids and supervising her staff. BTC is a staple in South Pasadena and deserves our support. I'm familiar with all the other programs in the area, and BTC is the best. Also, I work in a business with vulnerable populations, not unlike BTC. DOJ background checks, staff supervision, and state regulations do everything humanly possible to prevent the wrong people from working at a business. I trust that Samantha does everything possible to create a safe space for the children she cares for. I wholeheartedly believe Samantha handled the unfortunate situation perfectly and let's not forget that the events DID NOT happen while the person worked at BTC. Let's speak up in support of this small business owner who is a valued part of our community!!!

My kids attended BTC for five years, and we had an amazing experience. Samantha fosters a strong…read moresense of community, and the activities were always creative and fun. The teachers were top-notch--my kids sometimes didn't want to leave when I came to pick them up! I would recommend Beyond the Classroom to any family in search of a warm, caring afterschool program or summer camp.

I was very nervous about sending my son to daycare because my older children were looked after by…read moremy family. I have a hard time trusting others with my children, but sending my son to Room to Bloom was the best decision we made for him. He started when he was 19 months old in 2021 and he stayed until he was old enough to go to Kindergarten. Ms. Celine, a former public school teacher, told me that she would treat my son as if he was her own and she kept her promise. My son loved going to school and was always happy when we picked him up. She chooses her staff carefully and we love the teachers at Room to Bloom. They are kind, energetic, nurturing, and patient. The curriculum is so well thought out and my child learned different themes every couple of weeks. I love that my son wasn't just going somewhere for the day where the teachers just simply watched him. He was taught so much during his time at this school. In the 4 years that he was at Room to Bloom, my son learned how to read, do math, write, cut, glue, put on his shoes and clothes, wipe after using the restroom, and so much more. Because my son was very interested in math and reading, the teachers individualized instruction to meet his needs, even so far as doing multiplication/division/reading comprehension with him. I was hoping Ms Celine and the teachers at Room to Bloom would prepare him for Kindergarten, but he learned so much that he can honestly just sleep through K and be just fine. This school is the perfect balance of play and learning. I really can't believe how much little kids can learn when given the opportunity. They also teach kids about good character as well as social emotional learning. Ms Celine sends photos to parents at the end of the day as well as a summary of the activities for the day. If you choose to purchase lunch, your child will eat nutritious and delicious home cooked meals. There are fun events that parents can attend like a winter holiday performance as well as a Mother's Day and Father's Day celebration. The teachers go to great lengths to make children feel very special on their birthdays as well. I am very happy with Room to Bloom and can't imagine going anywhere else. My older kids went to local South Pasadena preschools, but if Room to Bloom was around when they were young, I would have absolutely sent them there instead.

We transitioned our kids from nanny care to Room to Bloom for 2 years (pre-preschool and…read morepre-school) and it was great for our kids and family. Unlike some other preschools, they focus on education not just childcare, and my kids were well prepared for kindergarten at Valentine Elementary because of what they learned at Room to Bloom. The interior facilities are well maintained, and lots of toys to choose from both inside and outside. All of the kids are generally well behaved, and the teachers employ a gentle but appropriately firm approach to discipline. Their teachers are kind and patient with the kids, and the food they provide for lunch is totally worth the small added cost. My kids still say that Ms. Celine's meals are better than mommy and daddy's - d'oh! Although they are now in 1st grade, we still send our kids to Room to Bloom for their monthly "Date Night Out" so mommy and daddy can have some me time!

We traveled all the way across the Pacific from Taipei to Los Angeles and enrolled all five of our…read morekids (ages 8-11) at Camp Kids Klub. Honestly, we couldn't have asked for a better experience. At first, we were worried--the younger ones might experience culture shock, and the older ones might feel bored just "babysitting" their younger siblings. But on the very first day at pickup, those worries disappeared. The entire ride home was filled with singing, laughter, and chants they had learned at camp. After dinner that night, they even put on a mini pep rally in our living room, proudly cheering their group songs together. From that moment on, we knew this camp was something truly special. Every staff member we met was incredibly friendly, welcoming us with smiles that immediately put us at ease. As outsiders unfamiliar with the American school system, we felt completely confident leaving our children in their care. The camp provided first-class entertainment, activities, and most importantly--safety. Camp Kids Klub gave our children an unforgettable summer, one that blended fun, growth, and community in the best way possible. Save us a spot, because we'll absolutely be signing up again next summer!

My child has been at KidsKlub development Centers since kindergarten (he's now going into 3rd…read moregrade). We cannot say enough GREAT things about all of KidsKlub programming. This is the first year that my son is in the slightly older aged summer camp program at South Pasadena, and he is absolutely loving it! He comes home sharing about what they do (something he rarely does without coaxing) all of the trips that they take during the week, which at this time is three days out of five. He loves the counselors and leadership staff as do we. All of Camp KK staff is incredible. They are super responsive, accommodating, and most importantly, take wonderful care of the children. There are too many to name, but Ignacious, Debbie, the Executive Director, "Eor", "Crush", "Sketch" and "Smile" are but a few. Programming - I love that we can drop off as early as 730 am and pick up as late as 6pm. the children are taken to the beach every Friday, swimming 1x per week, and another super fun field trip 1x week as well. KK has been doing this for so long that they know exactly how to build the infrastructure to ensure our kids safety while having a blast. Thanks for making my son's summer exceptionally fun all while allowing us parents to keep our full work weeks in tact.

My daughter started attending Blossom Garden October 2024 when she was about 2 years old. She truly…read morehas blossomed while attending the school. She has developed more verbal skills, table manners, school manners, art skills, and more. It's as if house rules continue at school which is great! The teachers are patient and nurturing with the children. My little one cried the first three months of drop off . The teachers always made my daughter and I feel heard and attended to. My daughter started off part-time and has transitioned to full time. She actually goes to sleep asking to go back to school and weekends she is bummed she is not going to school . I love that the teacher communicate with parents and send pictures of the children to parents. It makes me feel happy and at peace while at work. She is still attending Blossom Garden and is thriving. I will update again, but as of now, this is the best decision we have made.

We have had such a wonderful experience at Blossom Learning Academy. My daughter started here when…read moreshe was 3 years old, has since moved to Kindergarten, but we had decided to keep her at Blossom instead of moving her to TK because we truly feel she will continue to learn so much more in this environment. The teachers are amazing--especially Ms. Erika and Ms. Johanna. They are patient, caring, and genuinely invested in the kids. They helped both of our children successfully potty train, which was a huge milestone for our family. It's clear they have a lot of experience and a lot of heart. Communication has always been excellent. They keep parents informed and immediately communicate any issues or concerns. At the same time, they create such a warm and supportive environment that both of our kids always felt safe, cared for, and happy to go to school. Beyond academics, Blossom has helped our children grow socially and emotionally. They made great friends, learned how to share, cooperate, and work with others. The school also does fun crafts and engaging activities that keep the kids excited about learning. Our kids have learned so much here--from the alphabet and early writing skills to kindness, empathy, and caring about the community around them. We're so grateful for the teachers and the nurturing environment they provide. We highly recommend Blossom Learning Academy to any family looking for a preschool where their children will truly be cared for and supported while learning and growing.