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02/08/11
My son loves it here
by lIZZIBEAR at Citysearch
This is the third day care we've tried with my son. At the first center (which will remain nameless), he would sob uncontrollably when we dropped him off. I didn't think anything about this at first, as it was the first place we tried, and I just figured the crying was because he'd rather stay home as he was used to. As time went on, I was really feeling guilty about sending my son somewhere that he seemed to hate so much, so I tried to make it sound like fun, and engage him about his lessons in day care, or daily activities. That center absolutely did not communicate with parents. We had no idea what our son was (or wasn't) learning all day. Needless to say, we pulled him immediately. The second center (also to stay nameless), was somewhat better, with written curriculums and some parent participation; but I swear I think they were training future MMA fighters there! It seems like at least once a week, we were getting notes that someone had hit or bitten my child! Although he seemed somewhat happier here, I'm not okay sending my child somewhere that violence is the norm. It made me wonder what kind of supervision was actually conducted. After a rough 11 months of terrible treatment, I was really beginning to consider being a stay-at-home mom, until we found North Oaks. My son absolutely loves it here. The curriculum is always posted on the bulletin board, so I always know what my son is learning on any given day or week. This is great, because after day care, he's excited to tell me about his day. He loves his classmates, teacher, and Mrs. Patti (the director); and is so excited to see them somedays, that I have to remind him to come give me my goodbye hug, before he takes off into class. Overall, at the end of the day, the knowledge that my child is safe and happy is priceless. Choosing a day care was a scary task, and I'm glad we finally found this one.
08/08/10
Be prepared to be called constantly at work....
by bonobabe at Citysearch
For over a year my daughter attended North Oaks. The Director appeared to me mindful of her staff, stayed on top of things, and I did not see the turnover I had seen in other facilities. Do not be deceived by the matronly Director with the grandmother persona, she is only concerned with the bottom line.
With North Oaks, expect to receive frequent calls by the Director. Most daycares provide written notes of incidents during the course of the day. Do not expect this from North Oaks. The Director will call you every time your child bites, has a snotty nose, skinned knee, or the slightest behavior issue; granted as a parent, I want to be informed but to be interrupted constantly during the workday was extreme.
We signed our daughter up for the Tumblebus and within a few weeks of enrollment, the Tumblebus cancelled the sessions at North Oaks. This happened two summers in a row at North Oaks. Later I discovered the Director had gone behind my back and cancelled my child because the Director thought my daughter was too small. The Director never once stated her concerns with me or allowed me as a parent to decide; instead, her interest was the potential “liability” of her facility.
When I notified the Director of our withdrawal, the Director called in the middle of the workday to ask me the reason for leaving, I told her of the constant calls during the workday, the Tumblebus issues, and inconsistent communication were the reasons. The Director began to argue with me for the reasons we were leaving her facility and her behavior on the call convinced me the choice to move my daughter was justified.
If you cannot afford to be interrupted during the workday for the slightest things, do not enroll you child in this daycare. The Director is a control freak and has little concern for the working parent or child. Her focus is to keep her facility under control and minimize personal liability. The only positive thing I can say is the two teachers, Ms. Teresa and Ms. Maria, were wonderful but I would not expect them to stay long under the dictatorship of the Director.
Do not be fooled by the price. The cost of packing and bringing a lunch daily, providing wipes monthly, Kleenex, etc., will offset whatever tuition savings. Finally, the facility is dated, old, and poorly heated and cooled.
05/26/10
Teachers
by PreschoolDirector at Citysearch
you should always get references on your teachers!
12/19/09
Home Away From Home
by DoubleDouble at Citysearch
North Oaks is a home away from home. Hidden away from the Austin's hustle and bustle. Large shaded playgrounds. Caring staff and very experienced director.
Ms.Patty has run this center for 20 years +. That takes dedication and a love for children.
After reading other reviews posted I was disappointed on some of the reviews. First they all appreciate the cost but wanted to complain about old playground equipment, no lunches provided. If you want a fancy child care center you have to be willing to play for it. Believe me fancy child care centers does not always mean the best "CARE" for your child.
My son attended NOC since he was 2 yr old. I can only sing praises about Ms. Patty and her staff. Sure there is turn over but there is in any daycare. I feel Ms. Patty does the best in her ability to keep my child happy and healthy. Unfortunately that means dismissing staff that is not doing adequate job. I rather they be let go that kept.
I give North Oaks Country Five stars for loving my active, unruly, "son" as much as any girl in their care.
I would not trust him to any other child care center.
Don't just take my word for it...stop by for yourself.
- Pros: hidden in neighborhood, warm home like setting
09/22/08
Some things good, but smells bad most of the time
by theirmom at Citysearch
I really liked certain things about it. The separation of the age groups on the playgrounds was good. Made me feel more comfortable with my toddler being able to play with only children only in her age range. I also liked the teachers. but it smelled horrible most of the time. Also there was no daily report sent home for my toddler. I thought that was strange.
- Pros: Teachers, Playground
- Cons: Smells
