Carousel Preschool and Infant Center

My 3-yo twins have been going to the Carousel Infant/Toddler daycare since they were about 14 months. We are mostly very pleased with this daycare; the staff is very consistent (most of them have been there more than 5 years) and they are a very caring group of people. My kids like going there and have learned so much. This isn't just a "keep the kids safe while they play" daycare; the days are quite structured and even the youngest kids get instruction in reading, writing, basic skills like dressing and feeding, music, dance and art. It's not a fancy daycare; it doesn't have organic cooking classes and ballet lessons like some of the (very expensive!) other daycares/preschools we looked at. Facilities are basic and I wish there was more of an enticing outdoor space, but the rooms are clean and brightly lit and there are plenty of toys, books, equipment and activities for the kids. The price is really exceptional as well; when I tell friends how much we pay for full-time care, they can't believe it.
--Submitted by a parent

My son who has severe non-verbal autism has been at this school for over 6 years and I cannot recommend it to other parents. The first year there was great as they were using the rapid prompting method to teach him and he learned a lot. After some personnel changes the following year, it was an entirely different school. They tried to continue using the RPM technique, but eventually, it fell by the wayside. Now I get worksheets sent home that were obviously done by the staff with a sticker that says 'terrific' at the top! All he has to do is show up and they do his work for him. I liken it to day care for special needs kids.
--Submitted by a parent