J.F.
Hi D.!
Our 3yr old will be attending SLC starting in the fall, based on the recommendations of TONS of my friends. When we first moved here, we put my middle son into pre-K at the YMCA (NU people get a discount, so it seemed the best way to go). I think the administration and activities there are great, but frankly I got the feeling that the teachers didn't like my son (who is generally beloved by teachers, parents, kids, etc. --- he's like a friendly puppy dog). He loved the swimming and gym activities, and I will say he came out with a 'portfolio' of work from throughout the year that really showed academics... but I never felt comfortable with his teachers.
In talking with other parents, the moms of kids who were new to the program all felt the same way -- the head teacher showed massive favoritism towards the kids who had been there the year before. I think they've since replaced both of those teachers, but it left a bad taste in my mouth.
I can't say I know Chiaravalle that well but we live a block away and my nanny has taken two of our sons to play at the playground during the day for years... she says the teachers there are warm and friendly and the kids all seem very happy. I would have applied there but frankly it's out of our price range (shame....).
Benjy will be in the TWR afternoon 3s at SLC (we're on the waiting list for MWF mornings), so maybe I'll see you there next year!