We struggled with childcare for the first 2.5 years of our daughter's life and I was grappling with potentially having to quit my job until we found Goddard. My daughter is 4.5 now and I can't imagine her being anywhere else. From the first interview, everything about Goddard has been wonderful. I remember thinking during the interview it didn't seem possible that the director, Sue, really knew each kid individually like was being shown. I just didn't think a sense of care and community like that was possible given our previous experiences, but over time, I've seen that's just the way they do things here. That level of care is the way here at Goddard. The staff are knowledgeable and kind, and they know most if not all of the students by name whether they are in their class or not. My daughter has cycled through a few classes as she's aged and every single one has been great. She absolutely thrives at Goddard and loves everything about it; it's one of her favorite places to be. She has learned so much in her time here - growing leaps and bounds both intellectually and emotionally. They do so many fun activities and she asks me every morning what fun thing is in store that day - especially in summer! School leadership puts so much thought into fun and adventure for the kids. My daughter is well known, appreciated, safe, and loved, and we couldn't ask for anything more. She comes home every single day excited to tell us about her day, and excited to go back the next. She has one year left before kindergarten, and I'm honestly already heartbroken. If Goddard still offered kindergarten here, we would sign her up in a heartbeat. If we ever have more kids, enrolling them in Goddard will be one of the easiest decisions we'll make. read more

We brought our 1 year old in for a tour and was told he would be a great fit. I was given the paperwork to fill out and received a call the next day that the director wanted to talk to us. Before the tour I had spoken to them and told them that my son was in speech therapy. They were aware and said this wouldn't be a problem. When we came in to go through the paperwork the director told me that my son would not do well at their school and that he would need one on one care that they couldn't give, therefore he would "slip through the cracks". After observing him for 5-10 minutes she stated that she believes he is autistic and his mannerisms were all things that a child with autism demonstrates. She went on to give me pamphlets of places for him to get tested and schools for children with autism diagnosis. I let her know that the pediatrician had never once had a concern for autism and that he just had the speech delay. I left crying and embarrassed by the way we were treated. My son now goes to a new school and is thriving. He talks all the time and again has not been diagnosed with autism. I would never recommend this school to anyone. I believe they only want certain children and families who will boost the image of the school. read more

I waited for a bit before posting a review and make sure I'm not overreacting. I have a lot more to say, but I'm sure no one wants a novel. At first, Goddard was great. But as soon as my son hit pre-k, we ran into a lot of problems and I'm noticing a trend within these negative reviews that I really wish we saw a while ago and made a switch sooner. If your child is laid back, listens well, and you are wanting something more academically inclined, sure, this is for you. I gave 2 stars because they are good with academics and there is an employee that genuinely seems to care about the kids. I'll give them that. But if your child is your typical active kid (gasp! Unheard of!) - go elsewhere. They seem confused on normal, active 4 year old behaviors. Save yourself MULTIPLE sleepless nights, tears, and paranoia that something is wrong with you and your child. If there's a "incident," brace yourself. You will get calls, meetings. At the end, you may get 4 stories and a piece of paper (no joke - that happened). So, you don't really know the truth of what REALLY happened. You will get a call from the co-owner (I'm sure you see her name pop up in these reviews) and get pulled into unplanned meetings when you're there to just pick up your kid after a long day of work. A long meeting before a phone meeting later, if you will. Just to hear how your kid is overwhelming or unusual and list of "symptoms" to have you name what it could be. (By the way, my son is normal and fine according to the ACTUAL experts. Talk to the professionals before taking action based on what the co-owner says.) In short, you will be chased out. That is her tactic. Your child will sense it and act up even more. Mine surely did. After we pulled him and moved him elsewhere - it was like an instant relief. He's doing so much better at the other daycare facility. We actually ran into another former Goddard student and parent - SAME STORY. Read these reviews on a PC - you will see more of them with similar trend. I also want to add that the co-owner has drop another child's name to me. My son would get riled up with another student. I knew this and I didn't think it was much a problem, but she outwardly said, "we will be talking to the Parents about [child's name] bad behavior." I thought that was unprofessional and inappropriate to discuss other children BY NAME to another parent. Makes me wonder what was said about my son and other children. read more

If you are reading this, please send your child somewhere else! Sheryl Nelson does not care about children. She only cares about the money she is making. It is evident in her attitude and in the constant turnover of staff. The other owner, Steve Slaw, does nothing. The following is our experience with this daycare. We moved our son to this daycare when he was 2 years old to be closer to home. My son has always been a poor napper, which we were forthright with from the very beginning. Beginning around 3, he started to sleep less and eventually started dropping naps. Sheryl insisted that our son stay on his cot for 2 hours, whether he slept or not, and with nothing to do other than sit/lay there, claiming it's the "law". This continued for a year. The more they forced him to stay on his cot for 2 hours, the more he acted out. Every time he acted out, we got a phone call and were told we had to pick him up immediately. It got to a point where we had to pick him up early almost every day. Everything came to a head earlier this summer after he turned 4. I insisted that we have a meeting to try to come to an agreement about how to handle nap time. Sheryl insisted that it was the law that my son be on his cot for 2 hours. I researched the DCFS regulations and I learned that it was NOT the law. The law states that the daycare cannot force a child over 3 to stay on a cot for longer than 1 hour. In fact, children over 3 do not even need to be placed on a cot at all if they are not napping. The only rule is that the daycare must offer a 2-hour nap to children who would like to nap. As a side note, Steve is a lawyer. He should know better and it's unprofessional and unethical for him to back her when he knows what the law actually says. After discussing this with Sheryl, we learned the truth as to why they insisted that my son stay on a cot. If one kid is off their cot, they need to fully staff the room up to the state required ratio. If all of the kids are on their cots, the ratio can be dropped in half. In other words, it costs Sheryl less money for the kids to stay on their cots! At first, Sheryl was willing to work with us by giving our son a job to do for part of the 2 hour period. We also retained the social worker suggested by Goddard who apparently works with children there all the time (that should tell you something). We also felt that we needed an independent opinion and hired a psychologist that was unaffiliated with the daycare. The plan was that every time our son acted up, we would get a phone call. After 3 phone calls, we had to pick him up. Things were improving over the summer. Then, fall came. They moved my son to a different room with Cindy. Sheryl all of a sudden did not want to deal with our son anymore. The telephone calls increased, and we were repeatedly told how "out of control" our son was. While the social worker was there, we were told that our son had a good day and he was well-behaved. Why are we getting conflicting reports? Finally, one day, Sheryl called us and insisted on us coming to pick up our son after one call, which flies in the face of what we agreed to. She claimed he was so out of control that we needed to get him immediately. My husband got there, and our son was sitting quietly, practicing writing his letter "K". Tell me how this is "out of control"! Later we found out that Sheryl never even bothered to go into the classroom. We immediately pulled our son and his younger brother from Goddard. This is a repeat pattern at this daycare! I have heard this story over and over again. You can read this story in the other reviews. Oddly enough...all of the kids that Sheryl dislikes are sent to Cindy's room. Sheryl has no problem disclosing that there have been multiple children "kicked" out because of behavior! I also know parents who are still there that are very upset because their children are not being properly cared for and Sheryl does not care. She repeatedly puts the blame on the parents. If that still does not deter you because you think I'm just a disgruntled parent with a child that has "behavior problems", let's talk about my other son. He is two. He has never had any reports for poor behavior. When we would ask, "Who's ready for daycare?" He would scream no, no, no! He would cry often when we dropped him off. He would come home with terrible diaper rash and poop not fully wiped off his butt. My children are at a much better daycare now. My two-year-old cheers when we ask, "Who's ready for daycare?" There are no tears at drop off anymore and his diaper rash has pretty much cleared. Two-year-old's do not flip their personalities in less than a week. Our babies deserve to be in safe, welcoming, caring environments. Goddard in Elgin is not that environment. My older son is thriving at his new daycare. We have not received one report of bad behavior and we have not received one phone call. read more

My child went to Goddard for two years. Great teachers and admin, never really had to deal with the owners till the COVID 19 crisis happened. The school closed mid March due to the COVID 19 mandate. They took our ACH payment for tuition two weeks later for April even though they did not open in April, saying that they would give us credit toward full tuition in May when they open. They said they were not giving refunds unless we cancelled within 30 days.... OK, no one knew the school would close and that they were going to charge us two week later? Not really fair, but we thought we would be OK once the school opened. Well, it did not open in May, so they still had our money even though they did not provide services for our son. They then decided to open limited hours in June, which was not doable for most families, at a 50% capacity and told those who could do this new limited schedule of shortened hours that they would only give them a 1/2 credit for the tuition they paid in April and then could apply the 2nd credit for July. What??? As we could not do the limited hours for my son, We asked about July. They then said they could give us a pass for June to "hold my son's spot at the school" but we would have to pay for half of July because they would only apply 1/2 our "credit" for July and pay half for August? What? They still did not go back to full operating hours for July and we did not feel comfortable with the school's COVID procedures (lack there of) so told them he was not going back for July . They said sorry we would loose our credit for July and would have to pay full tuition for August if we wanted to keep him enrolled at the school. What??? The owners ignored emails and calls saying our messages went to SPAM again and again. Well, they stopped responding to us, so I guess my son is no longer enrolled at Goddard and they took our money. Wow, for a place that is supposed to care about kids, we got the truth that they only care about money. I heard that most of the staff left and the remaining staff had to take pay cuts and find other childcare for their kids as the owners said they needed the room for full tuition paying families at the school. Wow! Glad we did not go back to Goddard Elgin. Beware! read more

Our experience with Goddard was a major disappointment. When my son first started at the school I let the owners know up front that he a 6 month speech and developmental delay and would be seeing two therapists once a week. They were ok with this, welcomed the therapists and were great at working with us. I had multiple conversations with the owner and it was very reassuring to hear that they would do anything they could to be on the same page and help my son with whatever they could. I felt great sending him there every day and could see him improving as the weeks went on. We had a meeting with the owner, director, his teacher and therapists to discuss what he needed to work on in order to transition to the twos room. Goddard mentioned climbing and eating (he had a tendency to stuff his face and we just started working on using utensils). At this point he was already so much better than when he started (only 3 months prior) with not stuffing his face. We said we'd work with him on both things. During our hour long meeting the owner talked about herself for about 15-20 minutes then she was absent for about 20 minutes. This I found to be very rude. We thought things were going well, then I got a call two weeks later from the owner and director saying how exhausted the teachers were because they always had to be watching my son and that they were practically in tears. First of all, climbing is a normal age appropriate behavior for a two-year boy. My son is very good about being redirected. Also, they made it seem like he constantly needed help which is not true. I heard from four other people who were in his room at some point, that at first he didn't do so great with listening but then once he learned the environment and routine he was fine. There may have been some activities he needed an extra hand with but he's TWO. I was also told that he barely climbed or they never saw him climb. So here I am, 7 months pregnant and I am basically being told that my son is no longer welcome due to exhibiting age-appropriate behavior. The owner said she would try to get some recommendations for me for other places that could be a better fit for him. It amazes me that they have no problem working with children who bite, hit and hurt others but climbing or needing some extra help here and there is too much of a problem. I spoke with others who work in daycare and they all laughed because of how ridiculous this was. I had two other conversations that day with both the director and the other owner. As I asked questions, was in tears and trying to understand what just happened they were so rude to me and made me seem like the bad guy. My husband picked up my son after his nap and the owner didn't say a word to him. Not even I'm sorry it didn't work out - nothing. Also, not to mention, the owner never got back to me with recommendations for other places that could be a better fit. Over the weekend I had several other families reach out to me to tell me about their own horrible experiences with Goddard and the owners. I have never felt more hurt, disappointed, blindsided and upset in my life. I trusted these people with my son and they completely dismissed him for age-appropriate behavior. Do yourself a favor and choose a different daycare/school. read more

The admin staff and the teachers are all amazing. They truly care about our kids and always act in their best interest. We never have to worry about them having a great day at Goddard! read more

Don't waste your time or money here. The business is only here so the owners can make money. The only reason why they even have business is because of the location which is oddly convenient for them. What a coincidence. In the 3-4 months that I brought my child here, I've noticed that she has had numerous teacher changes. I can only guess that the teachers want to leave because the owners care so little for their employees as well as the children in their building. Kudos to everyone else working however the way it's being managed and operated isn't something that I would want to bring my child around. read more

This school is great! My older daughter was here from preschool through kindergarten and my younger daughter started in the toddler room and is now in Pre-k. When you walk in you notice immediately that it is a beautiful & very clean facility. The teachers are very caring. There are 2 teachers in my daughters pre-k room, one has a bachelors & one has a masters in education. I'm constantly amazed at how much my girls learn here, Last week my pre-k daughter told me the names of the planets and what makes each one unique. I asked my older daughter what she thought of Goddard. Here's her review: "I love this school because I liked doing so many crafts and fun stuff. I learned a lot. I liked that there aren't too many kids in a class and I liked how the teachers make these really fun things to do, but we are actually learning! I liked the different centers in my room where we could do all sorts of stuff with math & words and still play! I also liked how in the mornings there is a yummy breakfast and also snacks & lunch. The teachers are really nice and they play with you. The teachers will even be your partner in a game!" read more

This school and their staff is absolutely amazing... My husband and I came across some hardships financially and they stood by us through it all and supported us and worked with us so that we were able to give our child the best education possible and we couldn't be more grateful!! When they welcome you to the Goddard family they dearly truly mean it!! read more

This school is wonderful. My children were there for four years and have a great foundation for their education. The owners are very caring and supportive. They were always available. The teachers were very loving and caring. My kids are very confident after being at the Goddard school. I would highly recommend it ! read more

We can't express how much we value Goddard School of Elgin. After comparing many comparable child care institutions, we selected Goddard School. Here are some reasons why: 1. the facility is well kept, we keep our child safe from harms way and knowing that the facility installs and maintains child safe environment is reassuring, the place of care is also clean 2. the faculty members from the owners, Sheryl, Steve, front desk personnels to the child care team members (Mrs. Kim, Mrs. Carmen, etc) - they are all great to deal with, very caring and eager to help facilitate a welcoming setting for our child, they have gone above and beyond to care for a child whom has never been alone and away from the parents - our child took about 4-5 days to fully adjust but this would have not happened if the teams at Goddard did not act in the manner they did 3. Not only do they care for your child, they incorporate curriculum such as STEM to help your child prepare for K12, we consider this important as they try not only to care and have the kids just play but also learn in the process 4. daily updates via emails and from the "Tadpole" application, we truly value this feature as we know what our child is doing, what he likes to eat, the activities that the child participates in, this allows us to help our child continue the process even when he comes home so we can get him acclimated to the activities. With Goddard's help, our child has been able to pick up new words, participate with a large group of children, be more expressive, all of the positive re-enforcement from Goddard daycare has helped our child learn and be more open to the outside world! read more

Greatest school ever, especially in that area! Owners are great, teachers are wonderful and caring. The curriculum is organized and taught well, my daughter always surprises me with things she learns. Overall, I feel comfort in knowing I don't have to worry about my daughter's well being, environment and safety. read more

Nice and clean place; every teacher seems to be friendly and polite. It would be a really great place for your kids if not the fact that in this daycare the regulations seem to be more important that the children. I feel like that the place is great when your child listens 100% and does everything what is being told to do immediately. Unfortunately everyone has more challenging day once a while and it looks like the daycare is not prepared for any challenges. For example: if your 4yr old little girl doesn't want to sleep during the nap time, the only option she has is she must stay quiet in her bed for 2 hours; if she doesn't - the parent is called immediately to handle that, because the teachers can't figure out what to do (!). There are no other options from the teachers like a quiet activity, but your child must stay in bed which might be a horror for a 4yr old kid that has so much energy. "Strict rules" you could experience in other areas; once when I was there to pick up my daughter I heard one of the teachers instructing 2 kids that they shouldn't laugh this laud (really...?) When you pick up your child you can hear one of the two feed backs from the teachers: "had a great day" or "had a bad day" (nothing between). When paying big $$ I would expect to have somebody really working on/with my child while I must be at work - it is not the case here. The teachers do not provide any important feedback or advises; it seems to be that your child must be perfect and if not - you are pretty much being blamed for that your child had an attitude. I was expecting way more from the teachers that work for a certified place; I can control my kid when I am with him, but the teachers should have an educational background and should be the professionals who can handle more challenging situations kids with ease. read more

Goddard School in Elgin is great! The teachers and staff are fantastic. I highly recommend it for your children. Great way to give your child a head start read more

My daughter attended The Goddard School since she was three months old. First we were in South Elgin but that location closed down and gave us two days notice. The owner was not paying his bills. We should have known better but we transfer to The Goddard School in Elgin. The toddler room was great due to Ms. Kc. She was a wonderful teacher. Once my daughter got to the preschool room things were different. I notice the lead teacher did not like my daughter Ms. Cindy. My daughter is not a trouble maker so I was concern. I could tell by there interactions that something was not right. I became concern when I went to pick up my daughter and she had a swollen black eye. I looked at the report and it happen five minutes after I had dropped her off. My daughter latter told me she had to ice her eye all day. I was lived since no one called me to let me know. There was a high turn over with teachers that I did not care for. Evey six months she had a new teacher. I finally pulled her out when she was left behind in preschool and they moved the entire class up to pre-k. My daughter was again wih new teachers and had to make new friends with new kids. When I asked them why she had been left behind they said her birth day was two days short for pre-k. The confusing part was in the other classes she had always been bumped up since her motor skills and her speech and she was potty train before other kids. In the end I think this school is pretty but its a high end school and the the manadgement is snoby and rude. I dont pay top dollar to have my daughter get left behind. read more

My daughter has attended Goddard since she was 15 months old and absolutely loves to go to school. My husband and I continue to be amazed at what she learns on a daily/weekly basis. We love this school for its personal touches, loving teachers, and onsite ownership. They make it a welcome and positive place everyday. We were so impressed that we enrolled our second child, as well. Nothing but good things to say! read more

After visiting several area schools we selected Goddard School because we felt based upon the interview they had the best overall program for the cost. We loved the fact that they had Spanish, sign language, healthy foods, and appeared to focus on education. Unfortunately what we didn't do is look deeper into the overall operational aspects of the school. While the teachers were nice and educated they did not seem to have the skills and experience needed to keep our son engaged. Further the teachers changed a lot and did not stay for long. Administration at this school does not empower their teachers and frowns upon them providing feedback to the parents. In fact the owner is way too involved in everything and does not appear to trust staff (including the director) to be able to do their jobs. This is evident in how they handled our son in that the teachers would say such nice things about him but we would get calls from the owner suggesting he was psychotic. We worked out plans to help encourage improvement but over and over again the communication from the teachers to that of the owner was drastically different. Sheryl (the owner) at one point even diagnosed our son with a mental disorder explaining she took psychology courses in college and knows what she is talking about!! Ultimately Sheryl required that we begin having our son (a 3yr old) see a psychologist, contrary to what his primary care physician had to say after an evaluation (he was given an all clear). So we cut ties and removed our children from the school. We switched schools 3 years ago and could not be happier with the school he is in today. He is engaged and at the top of his class, this kid is a rock star! That said he can still be a trouble maker from time-to-time but they handle it with perfection. This new school works for their money and finds ways to keep him engaged because they know when he gets bored he might just stop listening and become disruptive to the class. I am able to go to work each day knowing that he is in good hands and I no longer dread the daily calls from Goddard School (which by the way administration felt the need to report on every little negative thing by calling me nearly daily at work). This behavior from Goddard School was negative and demoralizing for our son and for us personally. I work way too hard to put my child in school just to be beat down on a daily basis from the professionals I expect to be qualified enough to manage his care, growth, development, and behaviors. To demonstrate the differences; our new school communicates the positive with the negative, they are realistic and describe his behaviors as a typical boy, they make me feel like a good parent and go out of their way to ensure that they understand the hardships of putting children into these daycare/school programs, and simply put they get it. All attributes you will NOT find at Goddard School Elgin. read more