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Primrose School of Riverwoods is an accredited daycare located in the Helena area that offers infant, toddler, preschool, pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and after school programs. For over 40 years Primrose preschools has been a trusted household name and a nationally recognized daycare provider committed to forging a path that leads to a brighter future for all children.
I cannot recommend this daycare based on my experience. Communication with parents is extremely lacking — important updates are rarely shared in a timely manner, and questions or concerns often go unanswered or are brushed off even after discussion with management. I am not sure that the activities that were said to have been done were, as my child was picked up the last few weeks, sitting alone in the corner. The teachers barely acknowledged us at pickup. The lack of transparency made it very difficult to feel confident about my child’s daily care.
Hygiene is another major issue. The facility and toys often had an abnormal smell in the upper classroom, and I noticed minimal effort to maintain proper sanitation practices. The infant classroom, in contrast, had been well maintained and never had the odd odor. This was especially concerning in an environment where children are constantly in close contact and germs spread easily. Even more concerning, several staff members themselves appeared unhygienic, which only added to my discomfort about the standards of care being provided when my child came home smelling of body odor so profound that they had to be bathed immediately after 2-3 hours in the class.
On top of that, I found the overall professionalism of the staff disappointing. Interactions frequently came across as dismissive and unorganized, and there seemed to be little accountability when concerns were raised. Specifically, putting 6-month-olds regularly in front of video screens. Management declined to acknowledge it directly, even after I personally walked in on it multiple times. A daycare should provide not only a safe and clean environment but also clear, respectful communication with families — unfortunately, this one fell short in all those areas.
JJ
Jessalyn Jones
Sep 3, 2024
5.0
Primrose is the best day care ever!
TR
Trish Cagle Rushing
Dec 12, 2023
5.0
My son is enjoying Kindergarten and really blooming academically. Thank you Ms Ashley, Ms Q and Mr Jonathen.
ET
Erica Davis Temple
Dec 12, 2023
5.0
This year is our son Devin’s first year with Primrose and we love it and hate that we didn’t know about this school earlier. Everyone is so dedicated to helping Devin be the best student that he can be. I appreciate their hard work and dedication. They truly feel like an extension of our family with the amount of hard work, dedication and willingness to help that they show towards Devin and our family. Devin was super shy and has truly began to flourish and grow out of his shell. I would highly recommend them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Primrose School of Riverwoods
What is Primrose School of Riverwoods’s policy regarding staff and students who may be ill?
We require any students or staff with respiratory illness symptoms or fever to stay home until fever free for at least 24 hours.
What gets disinfected and cleaned on a frequent basis?
Items like high-touch toys, playground equipment, and other common surfaces are disinfected frequently throughout the day. Sheets and blankets from cribs are laundered daily; for older children, individual cots and blankets are provided for each child and are laundered on a weekly basis. Learn more here: https://tinyurl.com/mryjfs62
How does Primrose School of Riverwoods keep students well?
Teachers and students practice frequent handwashing throughout the day and adhere to a strict sick policy. Temperature checks, touch free check in, and limitations on visitors may also be implemented to minimize risk to all. Learn more here: https://tinyurl.com/y7gutztv
What training is provided to teachers regarding health and safety?
We require all teachers to be certified in first aid and CPR, in addition to ongoing health and safety training throughout the year. Teachers are also trained on common signs of illness with signage placed in each classroom. Learn more here: https://tinyurl.com/yakwfr8g
What is the curriculum at the school?
We call our curriculum the Balanced Learning® approach. It is designed to inspire children to think with creativity, compassion and resourcefulness. Primrose school teachers not only guide children as they learn letters, numbers, science and more, but they also weave in character development and life skills opportunities throughout the day so children can develop social and relationship skills.
How do you measure a child’s progress in school?
Every child learns at their own pace because every child is unique. At Primrose schools, teachers use a variety of tools throughout the year to collaborate with families and monitor each child’s progress. This helps them understand each child’s individual needs and provide the personalized support that helps them excel.
Does Primrose School of Riverwoods offer a Kindergarten program?
Yes, our school has a kindergarten program that utilizes our Primrose Balanced Learning® approach to help prepare children for success in Kindergarten, elementary school, and beyond. Small group lessons offer greater individual attention and our extended hours help support working parents with all-day care.
What age groups does Primrose School of Riverwoods cater to?
Primrose School of Riverwoods offers programs for infants, toddlers, preschool, pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, and after school care.
What is the daily schedule and hours of operation?
The school operates Monday to Friday from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, and it is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Hours may vary during holidays.
What health and safety measures does Primrose School of Riverwoods follow?
They require students and staff with respiratory symptoms or fever to stay home until fever-free for 24 hours. Frequent handwashing and regular disinfection of high-touch items are practiced, alongside temperature checks and touch-free check-in.
What training do teachers at Primrose School of Riverwoods receive regarding health and safety?
All teachers are certified in first aid and CPR and undergo ongoing health and safety training. They are trained to recognize common signs of illness, with informational signage in classrooms.
What curriculum does Primrose School of Riverwoods use?
They use the Balanced Learning® approach, focusing on creativity, compassion, and resourcefulness, integrating letters, numbers, science, character development, and life skills.
How does the school monitor and support a child's development?
Teachers use various tools throughout the year in collaboration with families to monitor each child's progress and provide personalized support.
Does Primrose School of Riverwoods offer a kindergarten program?
Yes, it offers a kindergarten program using the Balanced Learning® approach with small group lessons and extended hours to support working parents.
Is there wheelchair accessibility at Primrose School of Riverwoods?
Yes, the school has a wheelchair accessible entrance to accommodate all children and families.
What nearby amenities can families access when visiting Primrose School of Riverwoods?
Nearby amenities include Cahaba Dental Arts for pediatric dental care, Cahaba Lily Park for outdoor recreation, and Highway 52 Nutrition for coffee and light refreshments.
How can the nearby Helena Intermediate School be helpful for families using Primrose School of Riverwoods?
Helena Intermediate School offers elementary and middle school programs nearby, making it convenient for families planning their child’s education journey after Primrose care.
Are there any local services near Primrose School of Riverwoods that parents might find useful?
Yes, local services include Edward Jones for financial advising and David Abbott: Allstate Insurance for auto and home insurance needs.