Insider Pages Reviews for The Children's Center of Austin

5 Stars: The Children's Center of Austin is absolutely outstanding! (by Fiona W.)

Fiona W. — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 22:29:00 GMT

My kids have been enrolled in the CCOA for the past two years and we have had a great experience there. The teachers are all outstanding and sweet, they are very professional! The curiculum is impressive and the management is great. The ratios here are lower than anywhere else I had toured.

5 Stars: Great Childcare! (by Anonf)

Anonf — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 01:00:00 GMT

5 Stars: The CCOA is Great! (by Tara K.)

Tara K. — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:38:00 GMT

My two kids are at the CCOA and we love it. We moved here in August after being at Primrose because the ratios are lower and are so happy we did. My kids love to go to school everyday and have learned so much its amazing!

5 Stars: The CCOA is Great! (by Jourdain)

Jourdain — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 01:00:00 GMT

I have two kids who go to the CCOA. We moved them here from primrose because their ratios are lower. We are so happy here, the curiculum keeps the kids busy all day and they love going to school. They have learned so much since being enrolled there, I am constantly amazed.

5 Stars: CCOA is great (by TKnept)

TKnept — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 01:00:00 GMT

I have two children at the CCOA right now and we love it. The curiculum keeps them entertained all day and the teachers and staff are wonderful. My kids love to go to school! I have been so impressed with how much they have learned so far and how much more socialized they are. We wouldn't send them anywhere besides here.

5 Stars: So Impressed! (by KatBlack)

KatBlack — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 01:00:00 GMT

I have triplets that have been at the CCOA for two years. We started them there as 18 month olds part time so that they would be more socialized. The curiculum at the CCOA is awesome I am so impressed with how much they have learned. I feel like the CCOA is really preparing them for real school more importantly kindergarten. They have such a good time everyday and for the price its well worth it. We wouldn't put them anywhere else

5 Stars: We love the Childrens Center (by sarahgreenaustin)

sarahgreenaustin — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 01:00:00 GMT

I have one child who is 3 1/2 now and she has been at the CCOA since she was an infant. We have had an outstanding experience there. The teachers are absolutely wonderful and the management is great too. Everyone there is like family now. We just found out that we are expecting another child and without any question we will send him/her there. It's the best daycare in Austin!

5 Stars: The CCOA is outstanding (by Kiks)

Kiks — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My twins are in kindergarten now but they graduated from the CCOA last year. Our kindegarten teacher has been so impressed by how ready for kindergarten they are. They are extremely advanced compared to other kids in the class. We had the best experience at the CCOA and would recommend the school to anyone!

5 Stars: CCOA is Great (by CMBr)

CMBr — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My kids moved to the Jester location from Steiner. We loved both daycares, we just moved because we moved homes. We absolutely love it! Our kids are so happy and safe. They have learned so much, its incredible! I wouldn't send them anywhere else

5 Stars: We love the CCOA!!!! (by Corrine R.)

Corrine R. — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 02:17:00 GMT

My kids have been at the CCOA since they were infants and we have had an outstading experience there. One of the infant teachers Ms. Wanda has been there for 10 years! There is little teacher turnover the curiculum keeps the kids happy all day, the meals are healthy, its educational and the kids love it!

5 Stars: We love the CCOA!!!! (by Cr3832)

Cr3832 — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 02:00:00 GMT

5 Stars: The Children's Center of Austin is wonderful!! (by Lauren G.)

Lauren G. — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 19:56:00 GMT

My kids have been at the CCOA in Steiner for two years now and they love it. We have had a great experience so far, the mangament has changed and the new director Carrie is outstanding, she's really changed the whole school.

5 Stars: CCOA is amazing! (by lgramb)

lgramb — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My kids have been at the CCOA in steiner for two years now and they love it. We have had a great experience so far, the mangament has changed and the new director Carrie is outstanding, she's really changed the whole school.

5 Stars: The CCOA is Amazing!! (by erinj860)

erinj860 — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My kids have been at the CCOA since they were 16 months old and I wouldn't send them any where else. The staff and management has been so consistant since they have been there and we haven't had any problems with the teachers. They serve healthy meals and an oustanding curiculum that focuses on the kids being outside the class room and in other rooms like computers, spanish, music, art, swimming, library, gym and playground. We have had an outstanding experience here.

5 Stars: Very good school! (by BJames)

BJames — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My two children attend the Jester location and we all love it. I have absolutely nothing negative to say about this school. It's fantastic.

5 Stars: The Children's Center of Austin is Great (by Reed C.)

Reed C. — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 21:46:00 GMT

My kids go to the CCOA and we love it. We have had an outstanding experience there. My wife is always telling people about how awesome the school is, she absolutely loves it. The kids have learned so much from being there and they love to go to school.

5 Stars: The Children's Center of Austin is OUTSTANDING!! (by Rosie F.)

Rosie F. — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 20:50:00 GMT

I have four kids and they all go to the CCOA at beecaves. My older two go every day and the younger two go three days a week. I am a stay at home mom and planned on keeping my kids at home until I read an article about socializing your kids before they get to kindergarten. I am so happy I made this decision because now my kids are learning so much more than I could ever teach them alone like spanish, music, art, computer, math, language arts, science and even more. My kids are also kept so happy during the day! The love to go to school, and I am happy to have found a nice place for them! We love the CCOA!

5 Stars: The Children's Center of Austin is the best daycare in Austin! (by Taylor R.)

Taylor R. — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 22:10:00 GMT

My four year old is in the pre-school room at the CCOA in steiner and he loves it. I have been so impressed with their curiculum thus far. His teacher is awesome and Ms. Carrie the director is outstanding! A friend who has a child in kindergarten at Steiner Ranch Elementary reccommended the CCOA because they thought their children was overly prepared for kindergarten. We are so happy to have found such a good place for our son!

5 Stars: The Children's Center of Austin is incredible (by Cami R.)

Cami R. — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:07:00 GMT

My kids go to the CCOA and we love it. They are in an infant room and the teacher is Ms. Wanda and she is outstanding! My kids run to her every morning. The facility is by far the best in town and the teachers and management are incredible. Their program is so educational I am often impressed at how much my kids are learning. We have nothing but great things to say about the CCOA.

5 Stars: The CCOA is outstanding (by CR98)

CR98 — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 02:00:00 GMT

We have been at the CCOA for four years and are so happy. Ms. Wanda in the infant cetner is great and one of the directors Mrs. Julie is outstanding. They have a great facility, educational program, and outstanding staff and teachers! Our kids absolutely love it!

5 Stars: The Children's Center of Austin is the best in town! (by Cara D.)

Cara D. — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 21:37:00 GMT

My twins and son go to the CCOA and we love it! I trust the teachers there so much with my kids, and my kids love to go to school! My kids are kept so busy throughout the day and have so much fun. They have learned so much since starting there. The facility is outstanding and their curiculum is unbelievable. The CCOA is by far the best in town!

5 Stars: The Children's Center of Austin is the absolute best! (by Tamera W.)

Tamera W. — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 23:43:00 GMT

My kids have been at the CCOA for around three years and we couldn't be happier. The teachers are so incredible especially Ms.Wanda who has been at the school since they opened ten years ago!! We haven't experienced any teacher turnover in the three years we've been there and our kids have learned so so much. They especially love their music and spanish classes. We wouldn't send our kids to any other daycare in Austin!

5 Stars: Absolutely Amazing Experience (by walkercase)

walkercase — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My kids go to the CCOA and we couldn't be happier, they love their teachers especially Ms. Wanda and love to go to school everyday! Ms. Wanda has been at the CCOA since they opened so I don't know what people mean by saying that there is alot of turnover because there obviously isnt! We love the CCOA and wouldn't send our kids elsewhere

5 Stars: The Children's Center of Austin is outstanding! (by Katie P.)

Katie P. — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 22:10:00 GMT

My three kids go to the CCOA and we love it there! We have had no complaints and it has been three years. The school is so nice and the teachers are great. My kids have learned so much since going there!

5 Stars: WE LOVE CCOA (by PretteK)

PretteK — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My three kids all go to the CCOA. They all have so much fun everyday and I feel very safe leaving them in the CCOA's care. Their teachers are like family now and the management is outstanding. We love it there!

5 Stars: Best Daycare in Town (by ALPears)

ALPears — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 02:00:00 GMT

I switched my daughters over from primrose to the CCOA after two months of being at primrose. The CCOA was originally too expensive for me but when it came down to it I would rather spend a little extra money to get them in the best place in town. I am so impressed by my experience and my girls' experience at the CCOA. They have learned so much from being there and love to go to school so much. They get to visit a computer lab, art room, spanish class, dance, gym, library and playground during the day. They also take a nap and get fed healthy snacks and lunch! Ms. Wanda had both of my girls as babies and she has been at the school since they opened so I dont know what people are talking about when they say that there is alot of teacher turnover. I wouldn't send my kids anywhere else!

5 Stars: great place for my kid (by 3year mom)

3year mom — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 02:00:00 GMT

Our child love the Steiner Ranch facility. We feel so safe leaving in the hands of the teachers here, they are alot like family now. This summer our son has been in Swimming and Spanish lessons which are great. In spanish he learned a lot just in two months, swimming as well, my son love's Mr. Fernando an Mr Shean.
Ms. Carrie and Ms. Laura are very nice and professional people.
Their program is very educational, their separate classrooms, gym, pool, shady, playfround, extracurricular activities and nutrition meal. I wouldn't send my kids any where else.

5 Stars: We love it! (by momtofour)

momtofour — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My four kids have been at the CCOA for three years. There is no place I would rather put them. They are kept so happy all day long and they love to go to school. They do so many activities throughout the day and have learned soo much since we enrolled them. We are so happy with our experience so far.

5 Stars: Great Daycare (by mrett)

mrett — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My daughter Caroline has been at the CCOA for two and a half years. She transitioned from being at home with me to being at the school very easily thanks to the great staff at the CCOA. They treat her like she was their own daughter. She is so so happy there and loves going to school. We have no complaints about the school. It's an awesome place.

5 Stars: best daycare (by momRachel)

momRachel — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My daughter has been at the CCOA for two months now and we have no complaints. She has been so happy and I feel very comfortable leaving her there. She in in the infant center and we absolutely love her teacher Ms. Wanda who has been with the daycare since they opened! We have found so much stability with the CCOA for her and we think the program is very educational. My husband and I were amazed at how much she is learning. We love the school so much

5 Stars: Great ChildCare (by AGregger)

AGregger — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My kids go to the Jester location of the CCOA and they love it there. We have had such a great experience with the teachers and staff, it's been amazing.
The infant center is very nice and the teachers are great. They have two playgrounds for kids under 2 (indoor and outdoor) and they even takes walks during the day.
My older child goes to the art room, computer lab, library, spanish class, music class, gym, playground time and even extra curriculurs such as sportball and karate.
My family has had such a pleasent experience at the CCOA that I wouldn't recommend any other place in Austin. We love it there.

5 Stars: BEST PLACE IN AUSTIN FOR YOUR KIDS (by EBROOKES)

EBROOKES — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My child has been at the CCOA for a year now and we absolutely love it there. It was recommended to me by some friends and because this was our first child we were very skeptical about what a good childcare needed, and we were very surprised at what we found, they do such a great job there and the environment was so clean and safe. It's absolutely amazing!

5 Stars: Absolute Best Place in Austin (by lizturner3421)

lizturner3421 — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My kids have been at the CCOA for two years, my oldest just graduated from the four year old room and my younger child is in the infant center. We have had nothing but wonderful experiences with the teachers, staff and management. My older son has sever allergies to a long list of food and the CCOA was more than helpful at lunch/snack time. He started kinder last week and his transition was great thanks to the preparation at the CCOA. My younger child is very happy at the CCOA and she is kept very busy throughout the day, including walks in a large buggy with her classmates, and an indoor and outdoor play area. The school is great and we love it so much there.

5 Stars: The Children's Center of Austin is fantastic (by Regina C.)

Regina C. — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:48:00 GMT

My child goes three days a week to the three year old room at the CCOA in Jester. Her teachers are all very nice and professional, they really care about the kids well being. My child loves to go to school in the mornings and gets upset if I pick her up too early beacuse it cuts into her library time. I am very impressed with what she has learned, and even more impressed by the curriculum that is put together by the teachers and the curriculum coordinator in a meeting each month unlike other schools that follow a program where the teacher follows a lesson book and isn't allowed to be creative. My child is very happy and safe. We love it there.

5 Stars: Best Daycare in Austin (by EWIT)

EWIT — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 02:00:00 GMT

My son is an infant at the CCOA, we love it there. The facility is very nice and state of the art. The teachers are also friendly, caring and professional. The directors are also very attentive and if you have a problem, they adress it almost immediately. My son is very happy there.

5 Stars: Great Daycare! (by Jennifer T.)

Jennifer T. — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 05:30:00 GMT

After touring many schools in the austin area when we first moved, my husband and I chose the CCOA because of their educational program, nutritious meals, great staff and teachers, and mainly because our child is happy, safe and well taken care of. We have been there for a year now and would highly recommend this daycare!

5 Stars: Loved Our Experience At CCOA (by RFrank)

RFrank — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 02:00:00 GMT

Our twins just graduated from the CCOA this past year and they are starting kindergarten this week. We are so sad to leave the CCOA. Our kids had been there since they were 14 months old and we never came across a under-qualified or bad teacher..they were all great. As the kids got older we were so impressed with the independence skills they learned, while they also learned to cooperate with other kids. I am definently a health fanatic, and I was impressed by their meals and snacks. I was also impressed at my kids' spanish, math, science, english, and even history skills they learned. We were very impressed.

5 Stars: Great Daycare (by JenniferT054)

JenniferT054 — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 02:00:00 GMT

I had my two older children at the CCOA and now they are in middle school, but my husband and I also have a one year old that is currently attending. Transitioning into kindergarten was a breeze for my older kids, thanks to the pre-school program at the CCOA, even our kindergarten teacher was impressed and said she would recommend the pre-school program. I strongly disagree with Valenni, because after almost 7 years, I still see some of the same teachers that my older kids had, including Ms. Wanda in the infant center who our whole family adores. I also disagree with her point on unhealthy meals, because you can preview the menu online and it clearly shows how healthy it is AND the menu is changed every three weeks for diversity! The new management is wonderful and we love Julie, the regional director who is so nice and attentive. We love the school!

5 Stars: Disagreeing with Valenni (by MsBobbieS)

MsBobbieS — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 02:00:00 GMT

I disagree with the review written by Valenni on July 20th.

As a valued employee and one of the teachers mentioned in the review, I have to comment that whoever this person is really needs to take a look again. Since our management has changed our school has taken a turn for the better. We provide an excellent program for the children that attend our facility. We follow a curriculum grid that helps to teach children basic math and science skills, writing and literacy, as well as social skills that they need in the future. Our menu has also changed recently and we do now offer more healthy snacks and lunch items.

I am not picking sides just because I work here but because I have toured other childcare facilities in the greater Austin area and they do not in any way offer the children that go there the curriculum and activities that our school does.

I would never take my teaching skills to the Children's Courtyard or any other school but the one I work for because I know that here my work is appreciated and that the children in my class always get more than what they have asked for.

5 Stars: The Children's Center of Austin is great (by Lisa G.)

Lisa G. — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 05:48:00 GMT

My daughter has been at the CCOA for three years now and we absolutely love it. They have so many extra activities for the kids to take. For example my daughter takes dance, art, spanish, and visits a computer lab, and this summer she took swimming lessons for the first time. I think the curriculum at the CCOA is very educational and fun for the kids. All of the locations have great facilities and are very clean and safe. The teachers and staff are very educational and will even meet with you about your child to discuss how they are doing. We love it!

5 Stars: We Love This PLace (by momrachel)

momrachel — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 02:00:00 GMT

Our three children love the Steiner Ranch facility. We have an infant, we feel so safe leaving her in the hands of the teachers here, they are alot like family now. Pickup time is so hard because the kids dont want to leave. This summer our older two have been in swim lessons which are great. We thought about moving our four year old to primrose for the good education but when we looked into it and talked to some elementary schools, we decided to leave him at the CCOA. Their program is very educational, they just do it in a more fun way. I wouldn't send my kids any where else.

5 Stars: CCOA has great curriculum (by Melissa B.)

Melissa B. — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 20:59:00 GMT

My son attended CCOA for 2 years prior to entering kindergarten. The transition to kindergarten was very easy and I feel like the curriculum at CCOA contributed to this. He was above most of the other children in reading, writing and math. I have infant twins right now and when it is time for them to start preschool, I will place them here as well.

5 Stars: Our children love CCOA! (by MomOfThree)

MomOfThree — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 02:00:00 GMT

Our children love going to school in the mornings. They enjoy learning in this enviroment and love all the extra classes that CCOA has to offer. (dance, swim, sportball, piano). The staff treats my family great and I will recommend them to anyone. There was some turn over concerns about 18 months ago, but now things are better than ever! I wouldn't go anywhere else.

5 Stars: Don't leave your kids in this place (by Valenni)

Valenni — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 02:00:00 GMT

I do not recommend sending your child to The Children's Center of Austin. My kid was only a part of the program Jan to Mach. In that time, management changed three times, and her classroom teacher changed countless times. Promises were made that were never fulfilled. Their healthy food is horrible and unhealthy.
There is no curriculum,
The management is horrible. Leigh Ann was so wornderful but she left. This daycare used to be one of the best but now is on track to get one of the worst in Austin.
they have qualified people like: Ms. Joy, Ms. Bobby, Ms. Lana, Mr. Fernando, very talented people, just the management needs to be trained so they can use all the
technology they invested in installations,
going to Children's courtyard instead

4 Stars: Steiner Ranch Location (by steinermommy)

steinermommy — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 02:00:00 GMT

I had the pleasure of recently receiving a tour from Carrie Guarascio, the director of The Children's Center Austin. It was such a great experience.She was very welcoming and not once during the tour did we feel rushed. For first time parents that means alot! She allowed us time to view the school, speak with teachers and was genuine when responding to questions. Both my husband and I were so amazed at the facility and all the extra's that they had to offer. The teachers we spoke with were very knowlegeable and the children seemed to be very engaged in the activity that was going on at the time.
It was refreshing to deal with such friendly individuals.

4 Stars: Excellent Infant Care Facilities (by Megan33333)

Megan33333 — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 01:00:00 GMT

The infant center is clean and the staff are attentive. My children are "happy" when I drop them off. Wanda, the supervisor, spends time to get to know all the kids in the center. The kids are usually happy and I know they get lots of cuddles and fun activities. I wouldn't take my kids anywhere else.

5 Stars: Great Childcare (by OtisLevi)

OtisLevi — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 01:00:00 GMT

Both of our kids (4 and almost 2) have been at CCOA (Steiner) since August/08 and are doing great. The teachers are attentive and loving and Carrie, the Director is fantastic. Highly recommended!

5 Stars: Children's Center of Austin in Steiner is amazing!!! (by universityoftex)

universityoftex — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 01:00:00 GMT

I have had a WONDERFUL experience at the Children's Center of Austin at Steiner Ranch. After reading many of the positive and negative reviews on this great campus, I had to clear the air. I have been with CCOA since they opened. If I wasnt happy with the childcare/staff/managment, I would not continue going there. I dont even live in Steiner Ranch but, I drive out just to take my daughter there. If you actually get to know the teachers and talk to them during pick-up/drop-off, you would find that they are very devoted to the children in their class. The kids are not seen as just students but, as their own. Obviously, if you would like your child to be in a TOTALLY structured, militant school, send them to a monetsorri. Problem solved. But, if you want your child to feel loved and like they can be close with their teachers and director. Send them to CCOA at Steiner.

5 Stars: Truly loved CCOA (by joanne45)

joanne45 — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 01:00:00 GMT

My children are now at Steiner Ranch Elementary but, I had my son and daughter at the Children's Center of Austin in Steiner and my kids loved it!!! They remember their teachers and all the love and affection they got when they were enrolled there for about a year and a half. My kids enjoyed the fun curriculum and all the cool field trips they had planned for them on-site and off campus. The facility is gorgeous and the small ratios stood out compared to the other daycares around. Texas state ratios for 3-4 year olds is 17:1 but, CCOA's target ratio is 8:1, 16:2.

5 Stars: We love CCOA (by Amy O.)

Amy O. — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:24:00 GMT

My 1 1/2 year old and 5 year old have gone to Children's Center of Austin at both the Jester and Steiner Ranch locations and they LOVE IT! Carrie is a wonderful director and the teachers I have encountered are great. My kids look forward to going to school and seeing their friends and teachers.

5 Stars: STEINER RANCH LOCATION TAKES THE BEST CARE Of CHIlDREN!!! (by DeannaKrischke)

DeannaKrischke — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 02:00:00 GMT

Choosing a daycare is one of the most important decisions of your life. You are placing the thing you hold most dearly in your heart in the hands of someone else. With that being said, why I am so grateful to the teachers and staff at the Children's Center of Austin in Steiner Ranch
Each person at the Steiner location is so vested in the children. They do not just seem like teachers they seem like family. They take special care of each child and access exactly what care they need. My daughter had some minor health problems when she started at the location when she was a year old and her teacher met and exceeded all the expectations I had of her. She is now three and still loves the school and the teachers. Each staff member she has been with she has had a wonderful experience with.
I watch how the teachers/staff interact with all the children and it warms my heart. From the teachers, to the cook, the receptionist and up to the Staff Coordinator and Director they all give over 100% care to each child. I see a smile on every face at the school and it makes me feel safe and happy my child can be there with such loving people.

Thank you for watching the most important person in my life.

4 Stars: CCOA is more then just a daycare! (by baldwin26)

baldwin26 — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 02:00:00 GMT

My daughter has been at the Steiner Location since it opened and we have weathered all the changes. I am so happy that with Ms. Carrie as the Director , the school has really turned around. Each person at the Steiner location is so vested in the children. They do not seem like teachers they seem more like family. I watch how the teachers/staff interact with all the children and it truly warms my heart. They truly give 100% to each child .

4 Stars: Overall, a safe, fun environment for kids (by jestermommy)

jestermommy — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 02:00:00 GMT

This is my child's third year at CCOA - Jester. Like others below, I had some major issues with the infant-toddler center (teacher attrition, no curriculum, failure to follow ratios, small classrooms, lack of teacher qualifications, etc.). Ultimately, though, no infant daycare can match the experience of an infant being at home with parents or a nanny. So while CCOA could and should improve its infant-toddler care, I don't think it's any worse than comparable daycares; it is fundamentally safe, clean, and convenient. I also would caution readers to take postings made on the first day of the school year with a grain of salt, as while kids and teachers take time to settle into the new routine, it's easy for parents to be over-critical (and I say that from my own experience!). Anyway, now that my child has transitioned to the pre-school, I have to say I'm really impressed with CCOA. My child's teachers (3, in a class of 14) are energetic, creative people. The lead teacher, who has been at the school for several years, puts considerable thought into the lesson plans, which she follows effectively. I've been amazed at how much and how quickly my child is learning, and most importantly, how much fun my child has every day. I agree with others that CCOA has terrific pre-school facilities -- art room, library, music room, computer lab, indoor gym, two playgrounds, and pool. All are clean and well-equipped, which makes up for the fact that the homerooms are small. Also, the director, Julie, is warm, capable, and responsive to parent requests, and the curriculum coordinator, Robin, develops fun, age-appropriate programs for the kids. There's still room for improvement -- I was glad they reduced the fat in the menu over the summer, but it is now too salty -- and I would like to see more training and higher pay for the teachers, but I recommend at least CCOA's pre-school program to parents looking for an enriching, safe, and fun experience for their kids.

5 Stars: CCA - Steiner (by Deanne M.)

Deanne M. — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 17:57:00 GMT

We recently enrolled our kids (15 months and 3.5 years) in the Children's Center (Steiner) and have only good things to say about the school, program and teachers. Our 3 year old is having a great time, enjoying his learning and getting a lot of support from his teachers. I think Carrie is doing a great job as Director and is working hard at hiring qualified and loving staff.

1 Stars: most teachers act like teenage babysitters - look elsewhere (by apby)

apby — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 02:00:00 GMT

there are a FEW good teachers at this school. but most seem way too young and completely uninterested in EDUCATING CHILDREN. i've witnessed many treat the kids like their annoying younger siblings. i don't know why these young "teachers" decide to go into early childhood care.
this school also REQUIRES playground time, even when it is 100 degrees outside. there is one water fountain outside and the kids are just dying for a drink. then they come in and are given a small cup of juice and a few crackers as their "healthy" snack..
the classrooms are too small and cramped.

1 Stars: DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD HERE!! (by kspatteson)

kspatteson — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 02:00:00 GMT

I am sitting in my home horrified after an awful experience first day at Children's Center of Austin. My soon to be 2 year old was placed in a class with 2 teachers who had no contact or interaction with the children the entire 1 1/2 hours I stayed to acclamate my child. The ones crying with separation anxiety were ignored, not redirected, not comforted and eventually I had 3 children clinging to me for any bit of warmth they could find in the room. When I questioned the teacher about the activities for the day (one of the 2 teachers stepped out for a long break) she looked at me blankly, and did not respond; then it clicked - THE TEACHER DID NOT SPEAK ENGLISH. When I stormed into the director's office to gain clarification on the situation I was told that she would never be left alone with the kids, but that she was in the class to stay. The other teacher was just as disinterested in promoting engagement in the class room. So I am paying 400$/month for T/Th preschool that hires teachers that administration does not leave alone with the kids!! We will not be returning and will be demanding our fist month's tuition back.

2 Stars: Jester - great director, grouchy rude below average teachers (by aus99)

aus99 — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 02:00:00 GMT

My experience is w/ the Jester location, preschool building.

If you're considering this school, I HIGHLY recommend visiting more than once, at different times of the day. One of the best things you can do as a parent is before/after your tour, walk around the outside of the building. To the right of the entrance is a gated toddler area, to the left behind the building is the playground. Walk around and listen to how the teachers talk to the kids. Ask the director if you can observe on your own, walk the hallway. Really listen to how the teachers speak to the kids in the classroom.

Julie Keen, the director, is a very lovely person. She is accessible and cares about my children. She has always made time for me. I have no idea why someone so wonderful hires such poor quality employees.

When I asked about how discipline was handled, i was told by the director and a teacher "redirection", "distraction", "positive reinforcement". More often than not, I see the complete opposite of this by different teachers in different classrooms. I was really surprised to see how often and how quickly the teachers commanded the kids to "Time Away", without even asking them what happened, or explaining why their behavior was wrong.

What bothers me the most is how many of the teachers yell at the students. been there at naptime and heard a teacher speaking very sharply to a child to "Put your head down NOW". have also heard teachers talking across the hall to each other,complaining about a child.

The turnover is really high. Don't let anyone try to convince you that that's "just how preschools are". It is higher than normal here. part of the problem is that so many of these "teachers" are high school students or just too young and inexperienced to be taking care of so many children.

Every day when I take my kids in, most of the teachers appear grouchy, overtired, or downright rude. They could use a few lessons in basic etiquette, not to mention Early Childhood Education.

5 Stars: The Children Center of Austin (by 23nn)

23nn — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 02:00:00 GMT

I just recently enrolled my child in the Children Center after-school program. My wife and I had many choices to make regarding after-school programs and found that the Children Center was by far the most impressive, The activities such as: girl and boys day out are awesome! Also, I found that the ratios were lower than any of the other schools in the area. I highly suggest their program...

4 Stars: Good Experience (by austinww)

austinww — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 02:00:00 GMT

We sent our infant to the Steiner Ranch facility when she was 11 months, we had a great experience in the infant center, they offer a great curriculum and their staff is outstanding. We had some, but very little teacher turnover and in the end it was for the better. I highly suggest it to any parents who are looking into day care centers. The Steiner director Carrie is wonderful, very helpful and attentive. The facility is amazing and the older children spend most of their time in the art room and computer labs. After seeing their summer camp program we are hoping to get our older child enrolled in August.

3 Stars: Mixed Feelings (by crimsonowl)

crimsonowl — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 02:00:00 GMT

My child has been at CCOA for two years, and my feelings remain mixed. Note that the preschool is much better than the infant/toddler center; most of my complaints apply to the latter. The facilities are among the cleanest and best I've seen in Austin, although the actual classrooms are too small. The school offers a lot of schedule flexibility, which is great. Many, but not all, of the teachers are loving, nurturing people who are doing their very best to provide a safe, happy environment for the children. Some, but certainly not most, of the teachers are well-educated and over-qualified for their positions. The Jester director, Julie Keen, is a lovely, capable person who is doing her best to turn the school around, and the very bright curriculum coordinator, Erica Prewitt, offers lots of enriching and creative opportunities for the kids. The problems are teacher attrition (we had 5 "head teachers" in the classroom within 9 months); lack of teacher training; low hiring standards (some of the "teachers" are high school students; others are just warm bodies); persistent failures to meet the advertised ratios; lack of adequate classroom supplies, toys, and books; an unhealthy, sugar-filled menu; and lack of any real curriculum for the infants and todders (most of the day, the kids are just left to "independent play," which of course is necessary and valuable sometimes, but often just means they are bumps on logs). With the recent tuition increase, I hope teachers get well-deserved raises, and more effort is made to recruit and retain well-educated, energetic, quality teachers with better pay and benefits. With a more stable teaching staff, CCOA could live up to its potential. In short, I recommend CCOA-Jester to local parents looking for convenience, flexibility, safety, and a generally happy atmosphere for their children. For stability, academic rigour, and impressive teacher credentials, look elsewhere.

1 Stars: Steiner Ranch Facility (by Workshardforhermoney)

Workshardforhermoney — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 02:00:00 GMT

I would not recommend this facility to any friends or colleagues. If all you want is babysitting with basic supervision, then this may be the place for your children. Beware: The rates are not competitive. The teacher turnover has been unreal. (Ex: 5 teachers in 8 months). Never have I seen such turnover and then a request to increase rates by $175 per child with less than 30 days notice. There was parental backlash so ownership decided to increase the tuition by "only" $85 now and the rest in September. Our classroom has been told to be patient through the turnover and our toddlers have acted up and potty training has reverted. I have not seen this additional money go to any substantial teacher merit pay or towards improvement to the classroom setting. Any spanish/karate/swimming/dance classes offered at this facility is in addition to the tuition. There is an activity fee depending upon the curriculum in addition to the tuition. And in May the teacher appreciation week turned less into appreciating the teachers and more about subsidizing the children's classrooms with much needed classroom supplies. There were requests for parents to buy artroom tables. With tuition increases, shouldn't there already be furniture available to the children? The most disturbing, although an unsubstantiated rumor, is that the ownership didn't plan adequately for their 2007 taxes.

2 Stars: HIgher Rates Tip the Scale (by Joel5400)

Joel5400 — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 01:00:00 GMT

First, I've seen enough daycares to know that the negative reviews (at this and the other location) that complain about curriculum or say "worst ever" are just silly. This place really does have some positives, like facility, and many extra learning opportunities most daycares can't possibly provide (of course, many of them cost extra, too).

Tthat said, the stuff on teacher turnover is spot on. That, plus the fact that the just increased monthly rates by about 20% - which only 30 days' notice to parents, drop it from a three-star to a two-star, in my book, on a value/$ basis. At the "new" prices, just go to Child's Day instead.

1 Stars: NEVER EVER SEND YOUR CHILD TO CCA (by ssims98)

ssims98 — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 01:00:00 GMT

I do not recommend sending your child to The Children's Center of Austin. My infant was only a part of the program two days a week, from Sept to Nov. In that time, management changed three times, and her classroom teacher changed countless times. Promises were made that were never fulfilled. I gave them one to many chances. They jeopardized the education of my child as well as her health and well-being.

1 Stars: Avoid Children's Center of Austin (by srosenwork)

srosenwork — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 01:00:00 GMT

The new management is horrible. Leigh Ann was so wornderful but she just left. This daycare was one of the best but now is on track to get one of the worst in Austin. Avoid at all costs.

2 Stars: Not what it used to be (by proudmomma821)

proudmomma821 — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 02:00:00 GMT

My oldest two children are Children Center of Austin alumni. We were very excited to return to the Jester location with our newest addition to our family. Unfortunately, we found out through experience that the school is not what it used to be. Our young child's class was consistently out of the advertised ratio and was rarely in their own class when we came to pick up at the end of the day. While patiently waiting for corrections from the new administration, we considered moving to another the facility, but learned that the other facility also had a new director. The familiar faces and comfort that was once this school's greatest assets has been lost.

1 Stars: Too much Management Turn-over (by 2peasinapod)

2peasinapod — Sun, 05 Aug 2007 02:00:00 GMT

I am a previous poster who loved this school when I first enrolled earlier this year. After touring many other centers in Austin I can't begin to describe the feeling I had when I walked into The Children's Center for my tour with Leigh Ann. She was welcoming and friendly and greeted me and my children warmly. My kids seemed comfortable with her, and in fact did not want to leave when the tour ended. She was largely the reason I choose to enroll my two children, that day, on the spot. All the other parents I have met had wonderful things to say about Leigh Ann as the director, as did the teacehrs. I was happy with my choice.

Since she left I no longer have the same welcoming feeling when I arrive at the center each day. The teachers seem sad, depressed, or grumpy. The management team seems overwhelmed and uncaring. I have heard less than flattering things about the upper management at this company. Until there is a change at the top, I don't think there will be an improvement. I am currently looking for an alternative for my family.

I hope The Children's Center can once again return to the facility it was under Leigh Ann. The facility is beautiful, and combined with caring and nurturing it can be a great place.

1 Stars: not professional (by dave09)

dave09 — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 02:00:00 GMT

I do not recommend this facility to anyone. The Staff isn't very professional and the turn over rate is rediculously high compared to other daycares. Many teachers admit to very harsh treatment and the drama that goes on between staff and parent is not a secret. They may have many things for the kids but they rarely stick to things they promise. Since they have a lack of teachers the quality of care diminishes.The kids simply don't want to be there because they have no one to bond to.I have not seen one teacher there I have known for more that a month.At my new day care I was told the teachers are treated well and have been there for a long time so if you are looking for a good child care ask the teachers THE TRUTH(without their boss) about how they like their job and what they think of their director if they hesitate you know it's questionable if they seem happy and have worked there for years then you know that is a place your kids won't have to worry about losing their teachers very often and trasition will be better. Just ask lots of questions if you really care about the people you expose your kids to. I know for a fact they have lost many wonderful teachers to their unprofessionalism and it makes me sad since this place has so much for the kids to do.

5 Stars: Good Experience (by theo78750)

theo78750 — Thu, 27 Oct 2005 02:00:00 GMT

We have been at CCOA since it opened with 2 children of different ages. We had only one class through all 7 classes our children have been in that had more than one teacher turnover. That was hard, but it is bound to happen. We have used the teachers as babysitters in our home and used the summer camp for our older children. A great variety of extra activities and wonderful teachers!!

Our kids transitioned well into school partly because of the experience they had here.

4 Stars: Too many teacher changes for the children (by ashley70)

ashley70 — Mon, 12 Sep 2005 02:00:00 GMT

I agree with others, the school directors, are very nice, and if you come to the school and see the facilities you will love it. However, the most important thing for a kid in a preschool, is the "routine" and the "confidence" that they develop after bonding with their teachers. I know I am not the only one complaining about so many teacher changes in my child's classroom last school year. Other moms in other classrooms had the same issue. It doesn't matter how nice the place may seem, if the children don't feel comfortable due to so many changes, then it is not worthy. This is one of the most expensive schools too & this shouldn't be happening. Also, most of the teachers are very nice and seem to really care about the children, and others don't so much. If this continues I will go to another school.

3 Stars: less than polite staff persons (by kingfish00)

kingfish00 — Wed, 29 Jun 2005 02:00:00 GMT

I had a less than pleasant experience with three of the staff members at this facility. Leigh Ann is wonderful. Maybe the heat got to these young people. They were less than polite and threatening. I will not go back to this facility and I will discourage others from doing the same. I wish Leigh Ann worked somewhere else because she has always been professional and pleasant. It was hot today so that may be the reason these people were less than polite.

3 Stars: concern (by clair54)

clair54 — Thu, 12 May 2005 02:00:00 GMT

In my experience as a previous employer I think this is a terrific facility they offer an array of extra cirricular activities for children;spanish, exercise program,field trips, they also bring diffrent activities to the school ,and swimming as well as swim lessons in the summer, the parents are treated very well.My main concern is the rate of turnover the employees are at a disadvantage ther are hardly any teachers that have been there since the school opened.It affects the children also going through one teacher after another they don't form very good bonds with anyone and it makes drop off really hard.The teachers can't take off work when needed because of the lack of staff.

5 Stars: Good place to send your kids (by daria405)

daria405 — Mon, 29 Jul 2002 02:00:00 GMT

The previous review is largely exaggerated. I work at the Children's Center of Austin, and I can attest that it is a safe place for children to attend preschool/day care. The staff are all very caring, and we follow strict guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of every child there.