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