Special Announcements

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 10/7/19

Today, there were eight families who took their kids apple picking for some fall fun, all of whom met at your school!  These kids have known each other since they were 18 months old, or younger, and reveled in the time spent together today b/c, as you know, they are all mostly in different schools now. 

If not for the Nest, as we affectionately call it, the friendships made by both child AND parent might never have fostered, and we are all so grateful for the support and love we've found in these friendships so....thank you!

Lauren Brotz

We just received this email on 11/8/24, and it truly made our day!!

Thank you to all the parents/guardians for the continued support throughout the years!

 March 8, 2024   

Dear Prospective Parent or Guardian,

Over the last nine years, my family has had the most wonderful experience with Children’s Nest. The Children’s Nest center has partnered with us in raising our three children, now aged 4, 7, and 9. I truly do not know what we would have done without them! Each of our children started at Children’s Nest when they were about four months old. Just small little infants. I remember being so scared to trust someone else with my tiny, little bundles. I cried having to go back to work, but after only a short period of time, was extremely comforted with the level of care my children received. 

Before we started at Children’s Nest, I researched and visited a number of other centers. Finally, I felt at home when we visited Children’s Nest. Roseanne, the educational director, was so kind and caring. She was the reason we chose the center, and a huge part of the reason we never left throughout the course of almost a decide. Ms. Chiara, the owner and Executive Director is also one of the sweetest women you will ever meet. You can tell they really love what they do. 

My older two children graduated the pre-K program and were more prepared than most children in kindergarten. Our youngest is currently in the UPK program through North Merrick. I strongly regret not continuing him at Children’s Nest. I can see the difference in what my older children were provided, versus my youngest. I can also see the difference in the programs at the facility he currently attends versus Children’s Nest. If we realized earlier in the year, we would have continued him at Children’s Nest instead. 

The care at Children’s Nest is just superior. The teachers become family friends, and we were always sad to move on from one to the next. Of course, some teachers were more beloved than others, but all reserved a special place in our hearts. My daughter will never forget her time in class with Miss Ruby, her pre-K teacher.

Additionally, their food program is great, and how I find it to be superior to other centers. Their food program has variety and offers multiple options. I noticed that other centers offer pizza several times a week and sometimes just provide corn or other really cheap vegetables. My children had a nice variety at Children’s Nest. 

My children also enjoyed the summer program for several years – even after leaving the center. It is comforting for us to have them at a place we know and trust. The program kept them entertained and safe all summer long.

Finally, I need to mention that last year, when our youngest, Jack, needed to travel across the country for a necessary surgery, Children’s Nest was right there with us, supporting us in the endeavor. Jack needed to stay in California for a month after his surgery and could not return to Children’s Nest for an additional month of recovery. The staff and administration all reached out to us and let us know how much they cared for our son. They offered to help in any way they could. The administration worked with us when we worried that Jack would not have a spot to return to. They assured us they would find something for our baby, and they did! His surgery was in April of 2023, and he graduated alongside his classmates in June of 2024. Then he continued in the summer program there as well.

We are so grateful for our entire experience. We met many other parents and made friendships that have lasted over the last decade, and I am sure will continue for years to come. Our children are still friends with their friends from Children’s Nest even though some attend separate elementary schools. 

So, prospective parent/guardian, if you are looking for care in the Merrick/Bellmore area, look no more. Children’s Nest should be top on your list in terms of consideration! They have my vote for the best childcare center you can find.

Sincerely, 

The Rafuse Family

3/2/2026

Dear Children’s Nest Family,

    I am writing to you to unfortunately say we will not need to sign our children up in September. Although very appreciative that our daughter got into UPK (and that our son will now need to attend a nearby daycare), we are super sad to leave our original daycare family. You are our very first experience with daycare. Amid worrying and carrying for a sick parent, my husband and I had to quickly scramble for a new care plan for our baby. We felt lost, sad, scared, and all the emotions a parent feels when their child first starts daycare. We are so blessed that Children’s Nest had a spot for her… never knowing or thinking just how great of an experience our children (and us) would have with you. 

    I will never forget the inviting conversation I had on the phone with Ms. Roseann when I asked for more information about Children’s Nest. The tour she gave us quickly solidified our decision.  Right away, we knew this was the perfect place for us. She was not only extremely knowledgeable and confident, but it was obvious from the start how seriously she takes her job. There was no question that our baby and future child would be in great hands.

    We want to express how appreciative we are for our Children’s Nest Family. Ms. Roseann- thank you for taking every question and concern we had seriously and made sure we felt comfortable with your responses. Ms. Kristen- thank you for getting back to us quickly and always helping us however we needed. You were always our “go to girl!” To all the amazing women at the door during early morning drop off, Ms. G, Ms. Ashley, Ms. Bonnie, Ms. Jessica, Ms. Lauren (Cure side) just to name a few- you all help parents feel comfortable and happy when we start our drive to work. We know our kids are in great hands. You are the first people they (and we) see each day, and I can’t express the importance of that. To the fabulous women at pick up, Ms. Bonnie, Ms. Soranyi, Ms. Jessica and Ms. Ruby (both Cure side) again just to name a few- you fill us in on our children’s day if need be and wish us a “have a goodnight” or “weekend.” And to all the other fabulous women I may not have personally met and named. We know you also had a hand in shaping our children!!

    To the extraordinary teachers our children had over the years, Ms. Lauren (for both kids!). From a mom to a mom- you have calmed my nerves and worries since day one of daycare. You reassured me and my baby that they are well taken care of… you even somehow got her to nap and to this day... she STILL cries if “school” is closed for a holiday or the weekend. You paved the way for both of our children about what school and making friends is all about. Ms. Ashley and Ms. Genesis- you took over the class with a smile and listened to any concerns. You fostered lasting friendships (even the parents are close!!). Ms. Maria, Ms. Magaly, and Ms. Diana- you somehow got our stubborn boy to also enjoy school! Your patience and love are what turned his separation anxiety into happiness. Last but not least- Ms. Chrissy. You have done wonders for our daughter. You brought up a speech concern and now she’s getting the service she needs to make her even more successful. I have never seen a happier child go to school every day. Please know that is because of YOU.

    I am in tears as I write this letter to all of you. Please NEVER forget the lasting impact you have on not only all of the children, but on the parents as well. There is no other job that is more important than yours. Every day- we leave the most precious part of our lives in your hands. We can NEVER express how appreciative we are for ALL of you.

With love,

                                                                                                 Jen and Dave