Westside Learning Collective

"Westside Learning Collective has been such a joyful discovery for our unschool-y family! The teachers, Cara and Ellis, have created a beautiful space that is so incredibly respectful of children and their ability to learn both traditional academic and essential life skills in a non-coercive environment. My 11yo and 8yo have made wonderful friends at WLC, and they wake up excited to get up and go every Tuesday and Thursday morning—a parent’s dream! They meet in a large, inviting space that encourages art, music, movement, cooking & baking, experimentation, and outdoor play. Cara and Ellis prepare a thoughtful, engaging activity for the kids each day (from mathematical probabilities to mindfulness, current world events to making crepes), but also allow loads of time for the kids to take the lead and explore interests of their own—like knitting, writing and directing plays, and roller skating. Most importantly, Cara and Ellis take the time to really *see* each child and build a genuine relationship with them, helping them grow both academically and emotionally. They’ve brought together an extraordinary community of families who get to watch their children flourish in this kind, inclusive, supportive environment. We’re so thankful for WLC!"

"We feel so fortunate to have found WLC. It is just what we were looking for! Cara and Ellis are amazing with the kids and have done an incredible job creating an atmosphere of acceptance and delight. My child loves Westside days - jamming with Ellis, connecting with friends, brainstorming story/character design with Cara, doting on Oreo. Westside is a special place."

"We love Westside Learning Collective! It is one of the very few truly secular programs we have found in the DFW area. The kids lead the learning and the teachers are active participants in that learning. My kids are younger so they need some supervision but also room to grow and explore. Westside is a great combo of child led learning and active guidance from educated, caring adults. Also, the friendships my kids have made have been amazing. We never would have continued homeschooling this year without Westside!"

"My daughter has LOVED going to WLC! She is very slow to opening up to new people and Cara and Ellis were patient and understanding of her boundaries and now she has flourished there is doesn’t want to leave when I come to pick her up! Highly recommend this amazing group!"

"WLC is a fantastic education program. My kid loves it; she is never disappointed to go to school. Sometimes while there she’ll have a whim to whip up a snack, and then comes home with a stack of baked goods she crafted herself. Her confidence and determination have flourished at Westside. The staff here are everything. They are kind, caring people, and they work diligently to ensure that the kids have what they need to thrive. The environment staff provides is inclusive and supportive, and the kids soak this up. Exuberant learning and well-loved staff make WLC indispensable to our family."