My kid has been attending for 3 years now - and they've kept him alive for that long, so that's…read moreworth at least a couple stars! Really though, the teachers we've had have all been wonderful and genuinely care about their kiddos. Yes there is some turnover because it's a daycare center, many of the staff are younger and go on to pursue their educations, but there is also turnover in the clientele because kids grow up. In school, they will have different teachers every year, so that's not been an issue for us. They have a good curriculum that covers all the basics: counting basic reading/writing, vocabulary, and other subjects needed to prepare for Kindergarten, and they track each child's process to find any areas needing improvement. Breakfast, lunch and snacks are all provided. The meals are healthy, and my picky kid actually eats them (most of the time). They have lots of play time and fun activities, including programs where they bring in outside instructors (e.g., yoga, tae kwon do, and music lessons). They have secured access like most centers, a daily report that you can have emailed (or use the iPhone app), and video monitoring of every area that you can view online-- which frankly I hardly log into anymore since it's mainly just peace of mind that they have it. I've always found the administrators to be very helpful and processional. They will talk through any issues and try to make it a great experience for parents and children. They have a summer camp enrollment option with field trips for pre-K age and up for a modest extra fee (younger kids stay in the center but they do themes for each week of camp). Certain school districts will provide bussing here after school for those of us working parents who aren't home by 2:30 p.m. My son has flourished and made lots of great friends here, plus he is very well-prepared to start school. We are glad we made the choice to send him to Doodlebugs!

I would give it zero stars if I could…read more Doodle bugs is just for you, parents. The center is beautiful, with an indoor play room and awesome outdoor playgrounds. Fingerprint scanner to get in. Online check in and check out. An app to watch your kids during the day. As a parent, it's intoxicating. How do you walk away and send your kid someplace else? Be warned. They are fooling you. The bells and whistles do NOT translate to better care for your kids. I can't speak for other centers. But I can speak for the Sheridan center and corporate. My kid started there when he was three months old. He stayed until he was three, when his behavior no longer pleased the director. I was happy there for a while, even tried to get my second (unborn) child in, telling the center about the pregnancy before anyone in my family knew. I was told that maybe there would be a spot, maybe not, but if I didn't want to wait until the month before I returned to work, that I could go someplace else. The director is a princess in her mid 20s. No kids. And no experience as far as I can tell other than being a preschool teacher at another doodle bugs. The assistant director, same. The underlings, same. And it seems that corporate will back these dolls (who call themselves "the quad squad" and decorate the center with pictures of themselves) at any cost. Whatever they say goes and it isn't always what's right for your kids. I have had several Doodle teachers watch my kids for me in my home. They all complain about the "quad squad" being an unstoppable, suffocating group that stifle teachers, demand that they come to work when they're vomiting with fevers, and who chase teachers out the door for "not meeting the Doodle bug standards." Listen, I've never had a complaint about how the teachers have treated my children. Except when I have no idea who they are from week to week. A friend of mine on the other hand, watched her three year old being forced to the floor by a teacher and that was reported to the state. I imagine there was something to that because that teacher was gone the next week. The "quad squad" is insufferable and it shows in the teacher turn over. This doodle location is ALWAYS hiring and it's because they can't keep teachers who are willing to deal with the management. And this is why you probably don't know your kids teachers from week to week. To me, the playgrounds do not outweigh the directors. Anything taken to corporate is referred back to the "quad squad" to deal with. Delightful. Just one more thought. When my friend was expecting and my kids were still there, I referred them to Doodle Bugs. They questioned me about the director right away, having had concerns on their center tour. They enrolled their child anyhow due to convenience, and is happy there because they have one of the only teachers who has been there more than a year. The director assured my friend that I would receive the referral bonus the following week. Several months later, I still hadn't received it. The day I confronted the princess however, I received it. Within the hour. Hmm. Since my child was abruptly dismissed from Doodle Bugs, he's been appropriately assessed by another preschool and is excelling with teachers he knows and is comfortable with. Do yourselves a favor, parents. Ignore the bells and whistles. Take your kids (and your money) someplace else

I started sending my son here a few months ago over the summer when I knew he had been accepted in…read moreto the UPK program in autumn, so he could get acclimated to the facility (and the facility get acclimated to him). Before listing this place as my 1st choice in Clarence's UPK lottery, I went to all the 5 lottery choices to see them for myself. The Little Red Schoolhouse impressed me the most when I noticed 3 little boys all quietly looking at books together. Before attending here my son went to Doodlebugs two days a week for socialization and my son never ever did anything quietly or sat still like that at school. I thought to myself, "If these sorceresses can make little boys be still and quiet and read, maybe they can make my kid do this too". My son has high functioning autism and he can test a saint's patience but so far... this place has really improved his behavior at school tremendously. I mean, from their perspective he still gives them the business but from ours as parents I can see how far he's come in a short amount of time and it's remarkable. These teachers know what they are DOING! It's a very structured environment which in most cases is great for kids. I was a little nervous for my own, who had famously been described as "self directed" (which is hippie speak for "does whatever the heck he wants to"). My son used to cry and cling to me when I dropped him off at Doodlebugs, he actually enjoys coming here. I pay for some wrap around care on two days and while they do charge a little more than other places, the VALUE OF WHAT YOU GET! They have special guests come like the Fire department with their truck, or in the summer they have horse days on Wednesdays. It seems like my son is always coming home with some bonus present, like at Halloween a pumpkin from their private pumpkin patch or the many, many arts and crafts he makes at school. This is not a place where you drop your kid off and they just keep them alive for a few hours. They really do have amazing lesson plans and activities planned every day for them, I love knowing my son is going to do something fun every day. And the things he has learned! In the few months since pre-k started he can read at least two dozen sight words. I practice his sight words at home with him and it's impressed me how he's sounding out the letters and really trying to read the words. He knows his numbers and is starting to count by 2's and can count down from 25. He's 4 years old! When I was 4, I was eating paste and I don't think I even know left from right. They really teach them a lot at this school but they make it so fun the kids hardly even know they are learning! I also like that they hold him accountable when he messes up. Sometimes it's embarrassing for me as a parent but I know these teachers only have my son's best interests at heart and want him to succeed as much as I do. I appreciate their experience because they have been teaching kids for decades. They don't have a lot of turnaround here with their teachers, which is awesome for the kids. Is it click-y? I don't think so, I honestly haven't noticed if it is. All I care about is that my kid is learning and behaving in an appropriate manner. They are a little religious, some minor prayer and bible stories happening but hey! I don't care if Jesus takes the wheel if it means my kid is starting to read! They do like to teach the white washed versions of history (I'm looking at you, Columbus Day) but I'm guessing that's the school district's curriculum. They have a large parking lot for drop offs/pick ups. I don't think they take credit cards, I'm under the impression it's cash/checks. They do let you pay by the week or month. This is one of the cleanest preschools I have been in locally. They have hand sanitizer in ALL the classrooms and all the kids have to use it entering the room. Overall, I continue to be impressed by this school, it's teachers, their lessons, and all the little perks they offer. They are trying to make the kids ready for kindergarten and elementary school so I appreciate how they are helping my son grow. We could not be more happy with how our son is doing here, this really is a fantastic preschool/pre-k place to send your children.

I would not recommend this UPK program based on our experience. I truly feel that their UPK…read moreprivileges should be removed, given that it is a state run program. After requesting an evaluation through the Clarence Central School District due to concerns about how our child was being treated, we noticed a significant shift in how staff interacted with him. He began receiving multiple incident reports for very minor, age-typical behaviors (tapping a pencil on his arm, lightly poking his arm, rubbing an object on his leg). Instead of being redirected, he was repeatedly removed from the classroom and sent to the office. In one week alone, he was made to sit alone at lunch 4 out of 5 days for things like: * Crushing a few fruit loops instead of using it for an activity * Calling a classmate "bucko" * Making noises/tapping his foot * Pretend play with Legos He was also disciplined for pretending to "arrest" a friend during play. Additionally, nearly every day at pickup, staff would go over negative behaviors in front of our child often for very minor issues, rather than discussing them privately. This was extremely discouraging and, over time, clearly impacted how he viewed himself at school. Staff described him as "sweet," "kind," and "non-violent," which made what happened next especially concerning. We received a call claiming he had "punched 8 kids in a row" and needed to be picked up immediately. When we later reviewed the video (we have the footage), it appeared he was lightly tapping other children, almost as if counting, not acting aggressively. We absolutely understand that keeping hands to himself is something to learn, but the situation was escalated far beyond what seemed appropriate. While, my husband was at the school reviewing the footage Mary Beth can be heard in the video he recorded that she nor the teacher reviewed the footage after the incident they just assumed his guilt. They repeatedly told him he hit other kids until he admitted it and started to believe he did (which he didn't). Rather than an apology from Mary Beth after reviewing the video, she chose to tell us he was no longer welcome at Little Red School House. Other concerning moments: * I personally witnessed a teacher say "ugh, not you again" to him and take a utensil out of his hand in a rough manner * He came home saying a teacher used inappropriate language * An incident initially described as "spitting in a teacher's face" was later clarified by the teacher as accidental blowing a "raspberry" Most concerning was the emotional impact. Our child began saying:"I'm a bad kid at school,""The teachers don't like me,""They yell at me all the time,"and described Mary Beth as "scary." Additionally, professionals we consulted with described the program's approach as feeling more like a "boot camp" environment for young children, which we found very concerning for a UPK setting. At 4 years old, children need guidance, patience, and redirection not repeated removal, isolation, and labeling. Every child is different, but based on our experience, this environment felt overly harsh and not developmentally appropriate. Families should be aware and ask detailed questions about how behavior is handled before enrolling.

My 4 year old absolutely loved this preschool. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming and the small…read moreclass was perfect for my son who is easily overwhelmed. The teachers are so kind and caring and the class work was fun and helped prepare my child for kindergarten. He was excited to show me his work every day. I highly recommend this preschool.

From the owner: Students are able to learn, develop and grow educationally through multiple instructional…read moreactivities that celebrate the strengths and talents of each individual child.

Well the stars & ratings always depend upon how someone met your expectations! Here was my…read moreperception & expectation to find a preschool for my 3 yr old. Expectations----------------------------------------------------------- Result : 1) 3 hr school for 3 days a week------------------- Not Available 2) Teaching & learning activities-------------------- Not much enforced but they have their own way of keeping the kids busy & they teach , read books which is ok! 3) Gym/ Karate-------------------------------------------Very good 4) Teachers----------------------------------------------- Very young girls which in a way is good too and might be difficult too.... as they follow the by book more! 5) Fees----------------------------------------------------- On the expensive side but not overpriced. 6) Technology---------------------------------------------- You can watch the kids online from anywhere, Fingerprint entry and checkout system 7) Others----------------------------------------------------- Many of my friends like it and they send the siblings too 8) Afterschool------------------------They have buses to pick up child from Country parkway Elementary school. Older kids do the homework, play, most of the time during holidays, they take the kids on trip to Zoo etc. Well, fair enough to keep older kids busy! Sibling discount. 9) Universal Pre-K (UPK) ---------------------------- Yes but with full day enrollment after that Experience------- My child didn't enjoy much to go there. He loves his new school which is unbelievable to see. And i thought he doesn't want to go school. May be for some it works but i am very happy with the new school that i will review separately. You are not allowed to switch the days here for ex. i had my son there for 2 days a week on Tuesday and Thursday. Let say i wanted Wednesday instead of Tuesday then they would charge me for it but not switch from Tuesday to wed. Well, i am stay at home and need to volunteer for the older child at school so it didn't work for me that way. Termination notice is 2 weeks. Overall this doodle bugs is a nice school but still i prefer it as backup option but not last resort!

Our grandchildren were thriving at Doodle Bugs until a paperwork issue exposed a disappointing lack…read moreof compassion. A simple clerical error was being corrected, and the necessary documents were on the way. Instead of allowing time for resolution, the staff Director Stephanie abruptly demanded the children be picked up in the middle of the day (nap time). There was no grace, no understanding just cold, condescending, dismissive, treatment toward a parent doing her best. As former daycare owners, we know policies matter, but so does empathy. Child care isn't just about children it's about families. Doodle Bugs had a chance to show support. Instead, they chose rigidity over relationship. Leadership (Stephanie) should seriously reflect on what message that sends to the families they serve.

Both my kids have been going there for years. Mrs. Jean and Mr. Dale run a great program. Staff is…read morereally nice. Daughter went here for pre-k and was well prepared for kindergarten. Highly recommend.

My three year old son was very hesitant and shy, and would cry almost every day at drop off. From…read morethe very start, his teachers were there to comfort him and help him through his day. A couple weeks in, I watched as my son walked away from me in tears and went right into the arms of his teacher. While I was sad to see him upset, my heart exploded when I saw how much he loved and trusted his teacher to make him feel better. I have seen nothing but kindness, love and patience from the teachers and staff at Carousel. Their communication, willingness to treat each individual family with attention and care, and their welcoming classrooms make it an amazing place to care for your babies. I cannot be happier with my experience, and I am so sad that we will have to say goodbye soon!

Always remember that the review of anything depends upon your expectations and how much it meets…read more!!!! This school was recommended by my friend .She has her both the kids enrolled there. One older child for after school or during the breaks. Here is what i found . I know i know , you want to scroll down to see which line meets your expectations :) 1) Full day care , awesome, clean, great location, friendly staff, playground ! 2) Need 2 1/2 hr program? yes ! 9 30 - 12 for $25.00 3) Great teachers... Again, its based upon your child's needs and my son never cried here as he cried a lot in previous center so you never know! 4) Flexible flexible : just give them an advance notice and if they have space they will adjust you or switch you from regular time & day. I usually need this when i have to volunteer at my older child's school. 5) Dance/Gym/ Karate: Yes 6) Price: same as other day cares, reasonable. Though there are cheaper ones than this too. 7) Transportation: No link to transportation for after school from other elementary schools. Your own! 8) UPK: Not available as they have their own 2 1/2 hr program. 9) Teaching or learning activities: They keep the kids happy and engaged in various activities. They enforce teaching and learning through various methods but most important difference that i found here from previous place is that they pay special attention to details of each child's behavior. If my son doesn't listen, they make him listen. Previous center they didn't make him sit or listen even if he wandered or walked away from circle time or karate. 10) Technology: No Hi-Fi sci-fi stuff. Simple password entry. Its more like you can think that "the world was much better when apple and blackberries were just fruits". meaning that there was more human touch and emotional bonding. Overall for me it works great... Good luck! :)

The quality of service at this childcare center is not how it should be! The staff is very mean and…read morenasty towards each other and the children! They do not value the job and they don't show like they really love what they are doing, they are so angry!

From the owner: Child Care Center Infant and Toddler Care…read more Nursery School Preschool Kindergarten Readiness Program Afterschool Program Free Child Care and Pre-K For Qualified Parents Summer Program

Overall, my family has been pretty happy with the Y. The workout facilities, locker rooms and…read morebathrooms are much cleaner than what I've experienced at places like LA fitness. I love that they have lockers with locks in the main workout area (you do need to bring your own lock for the locker room), although currently many of the lockers are broken so I hope they repair them soon. I've taken quite a few good classes here although the classes do tend to get crowded so you really have to show up early to make sure you have a spot. We also enjoy swimming both in the lap pool and with our son in the zero depth pool. The one frustration I have had is with the adventure room. This is a great indoor playground which my toddler son loves. However, unlike the rest of the facilities, it is covered in dust. I worry that if they aren't maintaining this area, not only is it covered in germs from the children, but they may not be regularly inspecting the safety of the structure. Overall, it seems like a safe playspace but anytime you have kids climbing at such high heights, a piece of broken equipment could become a serious danger. I always watch my son closely and check out the equipment myself while he's playing. The other problem with this area is that although there is an app with schedules, it is frequently incorrect when it comes to the adventure room. The open hours for children under five are very limited and as you can imagine, it is very difficult to get a toddler out of the house, bring him to his favorite place only to have to tell him that it is unexpectedly closed. I have brought up this issue to the staff multiple times, but it still has not been addressed. In general, I would say the Y is worth it, especially if you were planning on utilizing all of the facilities

1 star This experience was horrible. The staff were very…read morerude to my children. My 1-year-old daughter, who is potty trained, needed help washing her hands and asked a staff member for assistance, but she was ignored. She then asked her 11-year-old sister for help. When my older daughter tried to help her in the bathroom, staff stopped her and told her she could not go in with her sister, and they spoke to her in a very harsh and upsetting way. I understand that there may be bathroom policies, but the way the situation was handled and the way my daughter was spoken to was completely unacceptable. We will not be returning to this YMCA and will be staying with our local YMCA instead.

This place has gone downhill so quickly over the past year. Continuous teacher turnover with no…read morecommunication about allergies, conditions or potty training. New directors door is always closed. Has been overcharging families with over one week turnaround to get money back. We've been going there over five years and today I tried to complain to someone that it smelled like smoke through the entire facility and couldn't recognize a single teacher

From the owner: While learning is a large part of what we do, we also focus on your individual child and his or her…read morewell-being. At The Learning Garden, your child is more than just a student to us. They become part of our family. Our Mission is to enrich the quality of family life by providing peace of mind to parents and enhancing the life experiences of the children in our care. We strive to create a warm and welcoming environment so that children look forward to arriving each day.