Alexa's PLAYC

My son has been going to Alexa's PLAYC since this past March.  I was a little apprehensive to move forward after seeing the negative review posted here, because my son was non (now semi) verbal.  I am so glad that I didn't allow that to sway my decision. We went in for the "interview" with BCBA Elizabeth and I felt at home right away, and that this would be a great place for my son to learn and grow.  During the 3.5 hour daily sessions attending as a neurodivergent kiddo, my son gets to engage in fun activities such as circle time (reading/show and tell/songs), snack, craft, playground, indoor play solo and with peers.  All while receiving direction from the teachers (some of whom are trained in ABA therapy).  There are 12 kids and 5 teachers in my son's classroom, which is an impressively low ratio.Shortly after his attendance began, my son's biting behavior resurfaced - miraculously, through structured planning and consistency, my son's teachers were able to play a huge role in helping to eradicate this behavior for the safety of the other children, all while being gentle and kind to my son.Alexa's PLAYC has completely replaced our prior ABA services (prior company had friendly and warm BT's, but slower progress for my son and no social environment).  It feels like all the teachers and staff know him personally and treat him like family.  He has taken particularly to the center's administrator, Fara, who is so sweet and lets my son take her by the hand and lead her around the classroom showing her all his favorite toys.  My son's Autism Education Associate teacher, Elyssa, is so gifted in her practice. She clearly pays close attention to the personality traits and communication styles of each child she works with. During our bi-weekly check-in appointments, I always love hearing her share her favorite recent moments about my son, and she gives incredible advice on how to turn moments of play with my son into teaching communication moments.  And even though it's not in her job description, she listens and genuinely cares when I voice my "parenting is hard" moments.  We will be able to keep bringing my son here until at least when he turns 3, and hopefully beyond (pending insurance).  In his four months of attending he has already come so far with being more intentional with his communication. It feels less like there is a wall in front of him and we can finally break through and have meaningful interactions with our son thanks to what our family has learned in our time here.  I can't wait to see what breakthroughs are coming next for our little guy!
Jul 13th, 2022

I'm not sure how to truly express how amazing this place is. My children definitely would not be where they are today without the staff Alexa's PLAYC. Everyone here is truly amazing I'm not even kidding. We have never met one person that we didn't feel like truly cared about the children and enjoy their job. Every preschool should be based off of this model! My child is now in first grade in public school and on a weekly basis I am told by staff how kind, compassionate and amazing my child is. Thank you, thank you, thank you Alexa's PLAYC! I can never thank you enough for what you've done for our family.
Jan 18th, 2022

My son has been at Alexa's PLAYC since he was 2. He just graduated in August. I can not say enough good things about this school! They have been so supportive to me and my son. My son has grown so much in so many ways. He was non verbal and had trouble participating with the group. He is now totally prepared for kindergarten. The people here care so much! I could not have asked for a better experience for my son! I will forever be grateful! I highly recommend this school!
Sep 1st, 2020

My daughter has gone here since she was little and now she's graduating. I can't believe it!  Alexa's PLAYC has been such an important part of her development. This preschool is designed for children with autism and those without (i.e., typical development). My daughter does not have autism but being around kids at Alexa's PLAYC (some with and some without autism) has helped her become a better friend, supportive of others, patient and well-rounded. I've been so grateful and impressed with the quality care my daughter has received here. She's made amazing friendships. The parents are supportive of each other. The teachers and staff genuinely love my daughter. While I'd prefer to be with her each day, I'm reassured knowing she's in a loving, rich environment that helps her grow as a person. The SD Philharmonic has come to perform for the kids, Sea World or SD Zoo has brought penguins, otters, or other animals for the kids to touch and meet. There's always something exciting happening. Can't recommend highly enough!
Aug 6th, 2020

Our son attended the Alexa's PLAYC preschool program full time for 3 years. We have loved every minute of the experience. Each classroom is unique in the play-based curriculum they provide and the skills that are focused on, but there is also a lot of continuity as your child grows through the classrooms: The teacher-to-child ratio is the smallest I've encountered, which is wonderful on so many levels; The teachers all have education and/or experience that is specific to child and family development; Staff turnover seems to be lower than at traditional daycares/preschools; Every staff member we have encountered has been extremely kind, gracious, and keen on getting to know about our child's individual needs; Every classroom follows a similar learning program based on monthly virtues, themes, and cultural emphasis; and, perhaps most importantly, we have always felt like our child was safe, loved, and that our input as parents was valued. The facility is very clean, the playground spaces and abundance of toys are stimulating and safe - the equipment is age appropriate and newer, the entry and exit require a badge and there is always someone at the front to greet visitors.There have been times when we have leaned on staff for our own growth and development as parents, too. Their reassurance, advice, and support has helped us continue to grow a child who is cheerful, engaged, and tries his best to spread kindness. We feel like Alexa's PLAYC has helped us to further grow our son into a good human by fostering great social skills, creative thinking, play, and a love of learning.
Sep 9th, 2019