Business Details
About
Day Care CenterPreschoolPrivate SchoolChild Development Center
At The Goddard School located in Grand Rapids (Cascade), we're more than just a daycare. The Goddard School is a private preschool, offering childcare to infants and toddlers to pre-k. Our programs are designed to nurture each child's curiosity in a safe and caring environment.
Location
The Goddard School of Grand Rapids (Cascade)
1544 Macnider Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI
49546, United States
Hours
Reviews
4.4
30 reviews
5 stars
25
4 stars
1
3 stars0
2 stars0
1 star
4
- LRLauren ReillyJul 7, 20255.0The Goddard School in Cascade has been an incredible part of our family’s journey. All three of our children have attended over the years, and I cannot speak highly enough about the care, love, and high-quality education they each received. From the nurturing infant and toddler rooms to the creative, engaging preschool and pre-K programs, every stage of our children’s development was supported with thoughtfulness and intention. The teachers are not only warm and deeply committed but also incredibly skilled at meeting each child where they are and helping them grow socially, emotionally, and academically. What sets this school apart is the relationships. We have always felt like true partners with the staff—communication is consistent, and they go above and beyond to build strong connections with both children and parents. The portfolios, the daily updates, the intentional activities—they all reflect a deep care for each child’s individual experience. Our kids were not just prepared for kindergarten; they were excited, confident, and curious learners, thanks to the foundation Goddard helped build. We are forever grateful for the role this school has played in our lives and will always carry such fond memories of our time here. If you’re looking for a place that treats your child like their own while giving them the tools to thrive, The Goddard School in Cascade is the place.
- NHNatalie Venuto HawkinsJun 6, 20254.0We had a great experience at Goddard! The teachers truly care about the kids and do a wonderful job keeping them engaged. Our son was well-prepared for kindergarten after four years there, and our daughter is ready for preschool. That said, we noticed a high turnover rate among staff, likely due to low pay—which is disappointing given the high tuition. Also, once our kids turned 4, they seemed ready for more variety and outdoor time. For older preschoolers, we found other care options offered more enrichment. Goddard is fantastic for babies and toddlers, but we’d recommend reevaluating after age 4.
- DLDr. LMay 29, 20251.0So we recently placed 3900$ deposit for tuition for our 2 small children, and had to cancel a few weeks prior to starting. Their website is pretty clear that there is a 500$ non refundable deposit. After cancelling we were then told that the 3900$ was also forfeited. Not sure how that works but I would be very weary of this school. Sounds like they are after 1 thing $$. More to come as I will ask my lawyers about this practice....I’ve since left my number with your receptionist multiple times and have never received a callback from the director.
- MKMalik KhanSep 16, 20245.0Amazing teachers! Very safe and friendly environment for kids!
Frequently Asked Questions About The Goddard School of Grand Rapids (Cascade)
Are you Licensed?
We take extra care to ensure that each of our Goddard School locations is licensed in their specific state before opening. States also conduct annual and semi-annual licensing visits to ensure our Schools remain in compliance. If you have any further questions regarding licensing, please contact your local Goddard School to learn more.
What are your rates?
Our tuition rates are comparable to others in your local premium childcare market. Because each School is an individually owned and operated franchise, rates vary. Please contact your local Goddard School to learn more.
Do you have a waiting list?
Availability is based on each individual School. Please contact your local Goddard School to learn more.
Do you offer discounts?
Because each Goddard School is an individually owned and operated franchise, special offers vary by location. Please contact your local Goddard School to learn more.
Do you provide education or only childcare?
Yes, The Goddard School® is an early learning institution that focuses on the social, emotional, physical and academic development of children from infancy to pre-k. Our highly trained and motivated faculty develop experiential lesson plans for all age groups that reflect the skills, abilities and interests of the children in each classroom.
Against the backdrop of a warm, safe and caring environment, The Goddard School supports children on their journey to becoming confident and joyful learners who are ready for school, careers and life.
What is a typical day at The Goddard School like?
In each classroom, we provide hands-on, playful, child-centered learning experiences that vary based on the children’s levels of development. Teachers help children grow into happy, healthy, intelligent little humans who are ready to take on the world around them.
For infants, we follow the care schedule set by your family and utilize personal care moments to connect with and expand your little one’s individual development. Our teachers also incorporate songs, finger play, books and sensory and physical exploration each day.
Our busy toddlers flex their independence as they learn to walk, talk and safely explore the world around them. Their curiosity and interests drive the classroom structure.
In our preschool and pre-k classrooms, we add more school preparation and readiness by focusing on academic skills as well as interpersonal and collaboration skills. Teachers support children as they investigate the world around them. Children learn how to ask and answer questions, work with others, navigate social situations and understand and communicate their own thoughts and feelings.
Our teachers expertly create supportive classrooms for all children to safely learn and test new social, academic and physical skills throughout a typical routine that includes morning and afternoon snack time, lunch, naptime, exploration time, small and large group experiences and outdoor play.
What types of qualifications do Goddard School teachers and caregivers have?
Our experienced Goddard School teachers meet all state and/or local regulations and have access to continuous training provided by their state and our own Goddard University. We train teachers on a regular basis in health and safety regulations, education standards and more.
Can any of the families in the School opt out of vaccinating their children?
In many states, children who are not vaccinated because of exemptions based on medical condition or sincerely held religious beliefs attend The Goddard Schools. If your child is not vaccinated, please contact the owner of The Goddard School to inquire as to whether exemptions may apply as not all exemptions are recognized in every state. To ensure the health and safety of everyone, if an outbreak occurs and a child has not been vaccinated, they will be asked to stay at home.
What supplies do I need to provide for my child?
Please provide any necessary personal care supplies for your little one, such as diapers, wipes, a change of clothing and naptime bedding. For infants, please supply a crib sheet. For toddlers and older children please bring a blanket and/or sleeping bag. Many of our locations also ask that you pack lunch for your child each day. Please contact your local School for additional details.
What age groups does The Goddard School of Grand Rapids (Cascade) serve?
We provide childcare and educational programs for infants, toddlers, and pre-k children.
Is The Goddard School licensed and regulated?
Yes, each Goddard School location is licensed according to state regulations, with regular visits ensuring compliance.
What are the operating hours of the school?
The school is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM and is closed on weekends.
What types of programs and curriculum does the school offer?
We offer a play-based curriculum focused on social, emotional, physical, and academic development including subjects like language arts, math, science, art, and technology.
Do you offer tours of the school?
Yes, tours can be booked online through our official booking link to help families learn more about our programs and environment.
What are the payment options accepted at the school?
We accept payments via cash and check.
What nearby services might be helpful for parents visiting The Goddard School?
Nearby services such as WilliamCharles Search Group (employment agency) and Crandall Partners (human resource services) can assist parents with job and career needs while their children are at school.
Are there recreational facilities close to The Goddard School for family activities?
Yes, Sunnybrook Golf Club, Snap Fitness, and Grand Rapids Aerial Lounge offer sports, fitness, and recreational activities that families might enjoy before or after school visits.
Where can parents find legal, financial, or real estate services near the school?
Nearby you can find Peterson Paletta Balice for legal services, Edelman Financial Engines for financial advising, and Megan Luczak for real estate assistance.
How can parents contact The Goddard School of Grand Rapids (Cascade)?
You can reach us by phone at +1 616-954-7550 or email us at GrandRapidsMI@goddardschools.com for any inquiries.