Blue Skies for Children vs Child Education Center
Hi local parents! We’re lucky to have secured a spot at two great daycares for our son starting at 6 months, and we’d love your input if you’ve experienced either one.
Blue Skies for Children
Offers meals/snacks, early intervention (speech therapist & psychologist on-site)
Strong emphasis on developmental readiness and smooth transitions
Parent skill-sharing welcomed (science, dance, carpentry, etc.)
Dedicated chef & operations staff
More expensive ($42K/year for 8:30 am - 4:30pm) & located in a slightly less safe area (occasional helicopter lockdowns)
Charges vary by pickup/drop-off time
Child Education Center (CEC)
Lower cost ($35K/year) & in a safer neighborhood
Fixed hours 7:30am–6pm with flexible pickup/drop-off
Monthly date-night option until 9:30pm for $45
Field trips & summer outings for older kids
Requires 4 hrs/month parent participation or $50 opt-out
Noticed caregiver/infant ratio wasn’t met during our visit
Both programs go through kindergarten, have great outdoor space, music lessons, and use Brightwheel. We're a remote/hybrid household, so schedule flexibility is helpful but not essential.
Would love any feedback or experiences to help us decide! Thanks in advance!
Parent Replies
Hi -
I have had two daughters (8 & 6) who started at BlueSkies at 4months old and were in the program until Kindergarten. My third daughter started in the baby room two weeks ago. I have nothing but wonderful things to say about BlueSkies. I often say that sending my kids to BlueSkies is the best decision I have made as a parent. I am happy to answer any of your questions.
Best,
Franny
I’m surprised about the ratio issue you encountered at CEC! My son has gone there since he was 9 months old and is now in the 2s class. We absolutely love it and have found them to be very on top of ratios. My son is thriving there and receives services though the RCEB through a push-in therapist. They’ve been great about coordinating with her. The infant class goes on a walk once a week and the 2s class gets out twice a week. They do picnics at nearby parks and have a ton of outdoor time at the school. We absolutely love it.