ImagiNation Learning Center

"They are fantastic and a hidden gem. We’ve experienced all of the classrooms from infant to pre-K. I trust them implicitly with both of my kids and in that time I gotten to know the staff really well. In addition, I love their curriculum - its creative, hands-on, and engaging. My boys have grown so much with their time there. It’s going to be a sad day when we have to move on. The staff here (and at their other location) have LONGEVITY. The director of the Chantilly location, Kara Cunningham has been with them for 18 years (and she’s not going anywhere! Sorry, Kara!). There is a true sense of community here which I love. When my kids first started going there, I was impressed that all of the teachers knew their names. The teachers go above and beyond for the kids from giving them more of their favorite sides during lunch to knowing what calms your child down. Kara isn’t the only one with longevity at the center. Their assistant director, Jennifer Trynock, has been there for 26 years and other teachers have been there for decades as well. They take care of their teachers so they can focus on taking care of our kids! Speaking of sides - can I just say that I love that food is included in tuition at all levels. At a previous daycare where I paid much more than here, we were required to bring food for my then infant son. Here, they take care of it (unless your child has an allergy or a parent has a preference) so its one less thing off your plate. They are a non-profit and have board of directors comprised of parents. As a result, they aren't distracted by trying operate like a business. They have a deep understanding of what parents need with a parent-led board, like being open during some federal holidays. So when you need a break to get personal things done or actually want to enjoy a day off without kids, they are open. I was expressing guilt by keeping my kids in daycare on a holiday and Kara made me feel better by saying, “This is what you pay for. We understand and would do the same.” I’ve seen some families who moved a little further away come back and do drop-ins because their new daycare was closed. Finally, I love love love how my children are exposed to so much diversity, from their friends to their teachers. I don't think they'll ever get to experience this much diversity ever again when they start school in Arlington. Yes, Arlington. So even though it’s a little further away, I think the peace of mind I get here is worth the distance. I love this place so much! I can't recommend them enough!"

"We had the pleasure of working with Jennifer, she is very kind and sweet. Unfortunately, we had to move to a center closer to home but our experience here was great! Mrs Lucy and Eloisa were amazing. My son loved Mrs. Lucy; she deeply cared about him, and kept him mentally & physically engaged. I just hope ILC centers expand soon, the staff and children deserve a spacious and modern environment. Great program and teachers, I highly recommend them!"

"Both of our daughters attend ILC and we feel they are getting a rich education that is important in their early years. We feel that not only are they getting a quality level of care, but they are safe throughout the day as well. The staff and teachers take the time to get to know us - which makes it feel like we are part of one family. I would encourage anyone seeking childcare to consider ILC and become part of the family."

"Finding a daycare you trust is the most important thing a working parent can do. ILC combines the caring environment of an in home daycare with the early education curriculum of an exclusive private preschool. When we went for the tour I was immediately put at ease by the warmth of the director and the dedication of the long time teachers. My daughter stops in to talk to her favorite teacher every day and all of the staff is quick with a warm word or a hug. I’ve had people ask me if I worry about my kid or feel guilty leaving them in childcare and my honest answer is no because we love ILC."

"Our kids have attended ILC for the last 3 years and have grown leaps and bounds with the social emotional learning that is a focus of the curriculum. The junior kindergarten program absolutely prepares kids for kindergarten! We highly recommend ILC to anyone looking to enroll their children in daycare."