Preschool & Childcare FAQs
Find answers to common questions about our early learning programs, educational approach, and the nurturing childcare community your child will join at Ivy Kids.
Safety and Security
What childcare safety measures does Ivy Kids offer?
At Ivy Kids, safety is our top priority. Our facilities feature secure front door buzzer entry systems, and front desk administrators are present during all business hours. Additionally, we offer live monitoring cameras in classrooms, allowing parents to observe their child's activities in real-time through secure online access.
How does Ivy Kids maintain a clean and safe environment for children?
We adhere to stringent cleaning protocols, including daily sanitization of all areas, classrooms, and frequent handwashing procedures for staff and children. Our commitment to maintaining a clean and safe daycare environment ensures the well-being of every child.
How secure is your center entry?
Each Ivy Kids center has secure, controlled entry points with buzzer systems and digital check-in/out processes to ensure only authorized individuals have access.
What happens in case of an emergency?
All staff are trained in emergency preparedness, and we conduct regular drills to ensure rapid, effective responses.
Are parents able to monitor their children through live cameras?
Yes, we provide secure, private monitoring cameras in each child's primary classroom. Parents can access these feeds securely from their desktop or handheld devices, ensuring transparency and peace of mind. Monitoring system is accessible to parents only.
How do you handle medications?
All medications are securely stored and administered only by trained staff with careful documentation.
What accreditations do you hold?
Ivy Kids holds Cognia® accreditation, a recognized standard of quality for early childhood education. Ivy Kids locations become eligible for individual center accreditation after one year of operation.
What health protocols are in place?
High-touch surfaces are disinfected every 30 minutes, illness policies are strictly followed, and daily health monitoring helps maintain a safe environment.
Children’s Nutrition and Meal Options
What kinds of healthy meals for kids does Ivy Kids provide?
Our BrainBites® Nutrition Program focuses on providing healthy meals for kids, prepared onsite with fresh ingredients by trained chefs. We emphasize balanced nutrition to support children's growth and development.
How do you handle food allergies?
We maintain strict safety protocols including separate preparation areas, clear labeling, and staff training on cross-contamination. As a nut-free facility, we provide additional protection for children with severe allergies.
How do you communicate menus with parents?
Menus are shared through our parent app, allowing you to discuss upcoming meals with your child and notify us of any concerns. Our staff is always available to answer questions about ingredients or preparation methods.
How does Ivy Kids handle food allergies and dietary restrictions?
We operate a strict nut-free kitchen and collaborate with families to accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions, ensuring all children receive safe and appropriate allergy-free meals.
What if my child is a picky eater?
Our family-style meals and positive food experiences encourage exploration without pressure. Teachers model healthy eating habits and celebrate trying new foods, helping children develop broader tastes over time. We work with parents to understand preferences and gradually introduce new options.
Are meals included in tuition?
Yes, all meals and snacks are provided as part of your tuition with no extra fees. This includes lunch and two snacks daily for full-day programs.
Curriculum and Educational Approach
What makes the research-based curriculum at Ivy Kids unique?
Ivy Kids utilizes the MultiPrep® curriculum, a research-based curriculum inspired by the theory of multiple intelligences. This approach caters to various learning styles, fostering comprehensive development in early childhood education.
How does MultiPrep compare to Montessori?
While Montessori emphasizes independent, self-paced learning, MultiPrep combines structured guidance with playful, adaptive instruction, nurturing both independence and foundational skill-building.
What role do parents play in MultiPrep?
Parents receive daily progress updates, attend parent-teacher check-ins, and are encouraged to participate in community events to stay actively engaged in their child's learning.
What is the MultiPrep® curriculum? How does it benefit children?
Ivy Kids utilizes the MultiPrep® curriculum, which is grounded in research from early learning theorists such as Howard Gardner, Lev Vygotsky, and Jean Piaget. Our framework applies the theory of multiple intelligences through active learning, and ensures that we foster whole-child development by helping children discover their strengths through engaging, hands-on experiences
How do teachers assess a child’s learning strengths?
Our teachers carefully observe how children respond to different activities, noting which of the multiple intelligences they naturally gravitate toward. Based on these observations, they create classroom experiences that offer varied ways to engage with and practice skills.
How does MultiPrep prepare children for kindergarten?
Through multi-sensory instruction, literacy & math integration, and teaching children to understand and manage their emotions, children develop the skills they need for success.
Enrollment, Programs, and Accreditation
What license(s) and accreditation does Ivy Kids have?
Ivy Kids Early Learning Centers are licensed childcare facilities per each state's requirements that adhere to the applicable State's Minimum Standards for Childcare Centers, ensuring compliance with state regulations. Additionally, Ivy Kids has earned Cognia® Systems Accreditation, a nationally recognized mark of quality that signifies a commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in education. Many individual Ivy Kids centers have also achieved Cognia accreditation.
How much is tuition, and what's included?
Tuition at Ivy Kids varies by location, age group, and program type. Overall, tuition includes:
MultiPrep® multiple intelligence-based curriculum that caters to individual learning styles
Engaging STEAM enrichment programs
Fresh, chef-prepared meals and snacks through our BrainBites® Nutrition Program
World Changers® character development program
In-classroom cameras for live streaming
Splash pad and age-appropriate playgrounds
Ongoing communication through our Parent Engagement App
For detailed tuition information and to learn more about what’s included, please contact your nearest Ivy Kids center.
What infant, toddler, preschool, and Pre-K programs are available at Ivy Kids?
Ivy Kids is more than a daycare with early childhood education programs children aged 6 weeks to 12 years. Our Multiple Intelligences curriculum is incorporated into all our programs, including Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Pre-Kindergarten, Before and After School care, Summer Camp, and seasonal school break camps. Learn more about our curriculum and programs.
How do I enroll my child in a top-rated early learning program?
If looking for the best preschool and daycare near me, please contact your closest Ivy Kids center to check availability, schedule a tour, and begin the enrollment process.
Staff Qualifications and Ratios
What qualifications and training do Ivy Kids teachers have?
Many of our teachers have obtained their Bachelor's or Master's degrees. We support ongoing professional development, sponsoring teachers to obtain their Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. All staff undergo advanced, age-specific curriculum training and are certified in CPR and First Aid.
What is the classroom size and student-teacher ratio?
At Ivy Kids Early Learning Centers, we strive to provide student-to-teacher ratios that meet or are lower than state standards to provide each child with personalized attention, a safe environment, and meaningful engagement. Please contact your closest Ivy Kids center for more details.
Parental Involvement
What parental involvement and family events are offered at the preschool?
Each Ivy Kids center hosts multiple events throughout the school year and warmly invites parents and families to attend and engage with our community. Families also receive regular communication through our parent engagement app that helps provide updates on your child, including all the center's fun events and activities.
Daily Activities and Assessments
What does a typical day in our preschool programs look like for children?
Each classroom follows a structured daily schedule, including circle time, small group learning, outdoor play, stretching and breathing, music and movement, and enrichment centers. This routine ensures a balanced and engaging experience for all children in our preschool programs.
How is learning and development in each child assessed?
Infants and Toddlers utilize the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ), which examines children's progress in reaching developmental milestones. Families should expect a copy of their child's most recent ASQ every other month. Our students in our 2s and up programs are assessed on the learning objectives that are covered in our curriculum during large and small group instruction. Families receive a progress report four times during the school year.
Careers
What qualifications do I need to work at Ivy Kids?
Requirements vary by position. Classroom roles typically require a CDA, Associate's, or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field, plus experience working with children. Most importantly, we look for individuals who share our values and demonstrate genuine care for children's development.
What makes Ivy Kids a great place to work?
At Ivy Kids, your career path develops alongside the minds you're shaping—creating meaning, community, and opportunity. You'll work where your ideas matter, your growth is supported, and you're part of something bigger than yourself.
Our team members love being part of a community where connections flourish between children, families, and educators. Most rewarding of all, you'll witness those magical "guess what we discovered today" moments that make this work truly fulfilling.
What is the work culture like at Ivy Kids?
Our culture reflects the same values that guide our classrooms—creating a space where team members and children flourish together. You'll find an environment where every team member's strengths are recognized and supported, just as we honor each child's individual path.
Our core values shape everything we do, ensuring it's a place where you can make a genuine difference while being part of a community that celebrates your contributions.
How does Ivy Kids support work-life balance?
We believe that wholeness matters for our team members. You'll enjoy predictable schedules with dedicated planning time built into your week, allowing you to be present both at work and at home.
Our benefits and paid time off mean you can focus on meaningful work without sacrificing your well-being. When our educators feel balanced, they bring their best to the classroom, creating the nurturing environment that families trust.
What does a typical day look like for teachers?
Teachers prepare the classroom before children arrive. Your day includes leading planned learning activities, supporting children's exploration, documenting development, and communicating with families. Each classroom follows age-appropriate schedules with dedicated planning time built into your week.
What opportunities are there for career advancement?
We recognize that career growth looks different for everyone. We offer advancement pathways from classroom roles to leadership positions—from mentoring other educators to center management to curriculum and training roles.
Many of our center directors and education leaders started in our classrooms and grew with us. We provide the training, mentorship, and opportunities you need to advance at your own pace, because when our team members flourish, it creates a stronger foundation for the children and families we serve.
How are teachers supported in implementing the curriculum?
Through multi-sensory instruction, literacy & math integration, and teaching children to understand and manage their emotions, children develop the skills they need for success.
Still Have Questions About Our Early Learning Center?
We're here to help. Whether you're exploring Ivy Kids daycare and preschool options for your child or considering joining our team, reach out for the information you need.
Find the Right Fit for Your Little One
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