First Baptist - experiences? Pros, cons??

[Anonymous]

We just found out that a spot may have opened up for us at First Baptist CDC. We put our names on tons of lists and this was the first one to come up with an opening. I went and sat in today - and had a few concerns, but all of the children seemed really happy and generally well cared for considering the 4:1 ratio. Anyone have experience with First Baptist they can share?

[Anonymous]

We just recently started, so perhaps others will chime in with more. So far I'm happy with the care my children are receiving - I have a toddler and an infant there. The caregivers are engaged and friendly, and my toddler loves them. The facilities are nice - that big gym was a selling point for me. The outside play area is small, but they regularly go to the recently redone Stead Park on P St. They also go on regular trips around the neighborhood, to the National Geographic museum and elsewhere.

The only big con I've experienced so far is in communication from the director. I'd heard going in that she is prickly and I've definitely found that to be true. My theory is she's worked with enough difficult parents that her solution is to shut them all out, when really I think more and better communication would address most of the problem there.

Hope that helps.

[Anonymous]

is this for DC or VA?

[Anonymous]

OP here - DC

[Anonymous]

I really enjoy the small loving environment. It isn't perfect - but is there perfect childcare? There are many families who have put 2 or 3 kids through the center and the children all seem well-adjusted and happy. Some folks are not happy with the director, but my child has great teachers and that is what is more important to me because the bulk of the day is with the teachers, not the director. The center holds family dinners every few months and you get a chance to connect with other parents. The gym, outdoor playground, and location were also a huge selling point.

[Anonymous]

We've only been there since September, but have a few concerns. (Our daughter is two.) The Assistant Director is very sweet and wonderful, but the Director is only so-so. Recently, we've encountered some problems with one of the teachers. If we can't switch classrooms, we may leave. Also, in the 4 months we've been there, I'm unaware of any trips to National Geographic, though they may go with older kids. I think they went to the park once or twice when the weather was still nice, but it's not like they are there every other day. Finally, we have found that the curriculum is a little lacking and disorganized. We will definitely be seeking a more organized preschool for the fall. Having said all that, until very recently, our daughter has been very happy there. Good luck.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:We've only been there since September, but have a few concerns. (Our daughter is two.) The Assistant Director is very sweet and wonderful, but the Director is only so-so. Recently, we've encountered some problems with one of the teachers. If we can't switch classrooms, we may leave. Also, in the 4 months we've been there, I'm unaware of any trips to National Geographic, though they may go with older kids. I think they went to the park once or twice when the weather was still nice, but it's not like they are there every other day. Finally, we have found that the curriculum is a little lacking and disorganized. We will definitely be seeking a more organized preschool for the fall. Having said all that, until very recently, our daughter has been very happy there. Good luck.

I know it's a little thing, but I can vouch that my child's (also 2) class went within the last month. The weather hasn't been warm enough for a lot of outside play recently, but they've taken walks around the neighborhood and hit Stead Park a few times.