Recs for a full time M-F play based preschool relatively close to Mclean?

[Anonymous]

Hi everyone, this summer we are moving to McLean and I will be going back to work full time. So I am looking for a full time play based preschool for my daughter who will turn 2 this summer. I realize that we are late to the game as our first choice, Eastern Ridge, already has a long waitlist. I would so appreciate an recs for a loving/warm, play based school where kids spend a lot of time outdoors?

Thank you in advance!

[Anonymous]

Country Day School in Mclean.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Country Day School in Mclean.

I thought this wasn't full day until 3s class

[Anonymous]

Hi, OP here. Thanks for the rec 10:37, but my DD would be too young (only 2) for the full day option at Country Day. Any other recs in McLean, Arlington, Vienna etc. would be very, very, much appreciated!

[Anonymous]

My kids have had a great experience at McLean Children's Academy. The administration isn't the most organized, but my kids don't notice that. All they know is that the environment is very nurturing and warm and the teachers are great. It's not strictly play based, but I know they do play a lot and also do a lot of arts and crafts, which my kids love. The outdoor area isn't large by any means, but they spend time outside everyday (weather permitting). It's worth you checking out anyways. They offer full day for kids starting at 2.5 yo, but they have to be potty trained.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My kids have had a great experience at McLean Children's Academy. The administration isn't the most organized, but my kids don't notice that. All they know is that the environment is very nurturing and warm and the teachers are great. It's not strictly play based, but I know they do play a lot and also do a lot of arts and crafts, which my kids love. The outdoor area isn't large by any means, but they spend time outside everyday (weather permitting). It's worth you checking out anyways. They offer full day for kids starting at 2.5 yo, but they have to be potty trained.

+1 MCA. Our oldest went there and it worked well for us. Definitely recommend.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My kids have had a great experience at McLean Children's Academy. The administration isn't the most organized, but my kids don't notice that. All they know is that the environment is very nurturing and warm and the teachers are great. It's not strictly play based, but I know they do play a lot and also do a lot of arts and crafts, which my kids love. The outdoor area isn't large by any means, but they spend time outside everyday (weather permitting). It's worth you checking out anyways. They offer full day for kids starting at 2.5 yo, but they have to be potty trained.

+1 MCA. Our oldest went there and it worked well for us. Definitely recommend.

What is the tuition at MCA? Can't find it on their website.

[Anonymous]

It varies depending on the number of days per week and hours you choose, but if you were to choose the max (which is M-F, 8 am to 5 pm), the tuition is around $17,000. This is just for the school year. They also offer summer camps which is nice since it's hard to find all day camps for the younger kids.

[Anonymous]

I would stay away from McLean Children's Academy. The backyard is really noisy as it faces a busy street. The actual building is very small (basically a converted house). When we went, the tuition was ridiculous for what you got. I assume it still is.

There's a reason you can get in any time of the year (no waitlist). It's the school you go to when all other options have failed. This was, unfortunately, the case with us.

[Anonymous]

Where in McLean? There are a couple schools in FCC (St.Joseph's, The Falls Church Preschool) if you are close to that area and want something more laid back.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I would stay away from McLean Children's Academy. The backyard is really noisy as it faces a busy street. The actual building is very small (basically a converted house). When we went, the tuition was ridiculous for what you got. I assume it still is.

There's a reason you can get in any time of the year (no waitlist). It's the school you go to when all other options have failed. This was, unfortunately, the case with us.

Totally disagree with this. Playground is surprisingly quiet given the location. What preschool tuition in McLean isn't expensive? They are very flexible and do a good job

[Anonymous]

Our Small World, Great Falls street

[Anonymous]

JCCNV

[Anonymous]

We also had a great experience at MCA. I also disagree that the playground is loud. Not at all. The teachers are great and my son learned a ton in his two years there.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Country Day School in Mclean.

I thought this wasn't full day until 3s class

This used to be true, but call to make sure. It's been some time since I was in the program . The "mommy and me" program started at age 2 but the mommy (or daddy) has to attend as well, but again, that is old information so be sure to call.