Derr Road KinderCare

"Long review ahead! We have a stubborn, picky 3 year old. We were nervous to switch daycares when we learned our previous one had to shut down unexpectedly. Our son had been with them for 2 years and had grown very attached to them so we weren’t sure how he would do in a completely new setting, and all new people. During our tour, everyone was so kind and he jumped right in started playing with the kids like he’d been going there for years! After the tour we decided this was where he’s meant to be. We were also nervous because he’s such a picky eater and won’t eat meals and is a snacker. They informed us its always an adjustment for the kids with the new foods, but if they don’t adjust, parents can pack their meals (with permission) and they won’t let the kids starve. Which was SO nice to know there were options since we’ve only ever packed his lunch. We’ve been here for about two months now, and he’s eating the majority of the foods! They have a great variety of new foods he’s trying and he’s actually eating “real” food at home now! While we are definitely paying double than we were before at our old center, it is 1000% worth it! To have him excited to go to school everyday, see his friends, and thrive with their structure, and actually eating real food. It was always a struggle when picking him up from his other daycare, but here, the structure has taught him what to expect and he leaves with no issues and he’s always so excited to tell me about his day and what he ate! I love how they keep a constant eye on the kids 24/7, the security inside and outside, and how they do roll call every time they switch rooms or go outside, and inside. They’re great at keeping the app up to date so I can stay up to date on his day. The teachers really do accommodate to each child’s needs! I couldn’t be anymore pleased with this daycare! He especially looks forward to seeing Miss Wendy! If you’re trying to get in contact with the center for a tour, it’s best to submit a request online. I called a few times with no answer, but had an immediate answer through their website. People need to understand that they’re all super busy giving the kids the best care they can!"

"Our 14 month old son has been going to KinderCare in Springfield for about a month now and we are so pleased and impressed with the care he has been given. His teachers regularly discuss our kiddo’s growth and what he’s learning with us, to include developmental milestones and how to help him reach them. We absolutely love them. They took the time early on to learn his personality and what works best for him to learn and have a great day while there! Their menu is also amazing - I’m learning all kinds of new things my kiddo likes to eat because of the varied foods he’s tried there. If there is ever a concern, the teachers and office staff are quick to bring them to us. Wendy, the principal, is absolutely amazing and after meeting her I knew this school would be a great fit for us. The staff are all extremely caring and it’s apparent that they are all doing what they love!"

"Let me just say… the director at this location Wendy Staker, is WILDLY unprofessional, to the point of it being enraging! I have worked at a few kindercares over my 16 years of childcare experience, and never in my life have I seen a director toss children out of the problem FOR LIFE…. For such small, regular, normal toddler behaviors!!! Most behavioral issues, if it’s even really an issue, CAN and absolutely SHOULD be worked on, and as a childcare professional, that’s our JOB! Especially if said behavior isn’t harmful too the classroom or teachers… at this location you’ll find a director on a power trip, who builds personal vendettas with toddlers, AND their parents, and uses her “power” to EXCUDE families with a child even mildly difficult, or god forbid any sort of special need. If she put HALF the work into keeping employees, keeping turnover low, keeping consistency in these children’s lives, and working WITH families instead of against them…. Then maybe she’d be better at running a center. This is a fair warning, steer clear! I personally also know 5 past employees that claim she treats the children poorly, and employees are under appreciated, making for an overall AWFUL center environment. Do better, Wendy."

"I love Kinder Care!! The Kinder Care app keeps you updated with what your child is doing, eating, and restroom habits along with instant communication with the teacher. They have exciting activities for the kids including dancing, singing, playing, and age appropriate challenges. I also love how they focus on development, truly partnering with me in my child’s growth. My daughter is in the toddler room now and see her playing with bubbles, painting, learning about light with a flashlight, and playing with snow. It is not only educational it seems very enjoyable to them. I swear every day she comes home with something adorable she made and she has acquired a new skill. And everyone at that center truly loves what they do and it shows. Highly recommend!"