Academy of Knowledge 1818 Elsey Drive, Charleston, SC 29407

"Will not be returning to this daycare. Most importantly, be prepared to deal with them closing randomly, telling you to pick up early, and drop off late multiple times a week (while still paying full tuition). The owner is extremely disrespectful, condescending, contradictory, and will talk over you. We just had our last day at this daycare (which keeps losing staff and changing their name, so that tells you something.) The owner spoke very emotionally and aggressively to me, and his exact words were, “you can pack your bags” because I told his director that we were actively looking at other centers because of how unstable they are. (He also doesn’t like to be called out for paying low wages, so don’t bring that up if you don’t want to listen to a grown man throw a temper tantrum) His tone switched as soon as my husband spoke with him, and we will not be returning. We have been extremely understanding of how unstable the daycare situation is in Charleston right now, and we have never complained about having to pay full tuition. This conversation took place because I did not see that it was fair to pay a $40 late fee when we had to pay full tuition on closed days. (Also confusing because he said, “he isn’t out for the money”, but then said I need to be understanding that he is trying to run a business) Considering the lack of knowledge on how to respectfully deal with your customers, I highly question what is going on inside the daycare now as well. Best wishes!"

"Absolutely love this daycare. The director and staff are amazing!!! My baby has been to one other daycare and this one is the best. Super clean and especially during such a difficult time like right now I am not worried about sending my baby to daycare and her get sick. Recommend open arms to all parents looking for childcare."

"I don't have any children young enough to go to preschool, but if I did this would be where I sent them. The owner Mike has been my Daddy's neighbor since he opened the business, and he is a first class neighbor and business owner. He truly displays the sort of character that is not common in a neighbor these days, especially a commercial neighbor. Mike spends a lot of time at the business, and I know anyone who treats neighbors this way also knows how to treat children."

"We could not be more pleased with Open Arms and the care that our child receives from the staff. The staff is constantly interacting with the children at all age groups. They are down on their level, often sitting with them, reading books, doing activities, and giving them undivided attention. This is not a daycare that puts children in front of a screen but puts the children first. The entire staff is pleasant and knows the name of each child. We feel safe with our child here, we know they are being cared for as they describe, and that our child is happy to be part of such a wonderful environment. I commend Open Arms for setting the bar high for child care in West Ashley and will certainly send future children to their care."