Smart Love Family Services

Our now 7-year-old daughter went to Smart Love for preschool, and our 3-year-old now attends their 2-days-a-week playschool. Smart Love has been nothing short of exemplary for both my kids. All the teachers and staff adapt to each child with ease, but more importantly with joy. Even though my daughter has "graduated," they've treated her like family on her return visits.

While the Smart Love philosophy is anchored in some core basic philosophies, it is hardly a one-size-fits-all approach. I have watched children and parents of different ethnicities, sexual orientations, ages, intelligence levels, and economic tiers all marvel at how confidently their child grows at this school. Our conferences with teachers have always delved into detail that I don't get from any other place. I always find out the "why" behind a child's behavior from Smart Love, so it encourages me to learn and grow as a parent as well.

All the positive reinforcement is anchored in years of research by Smart Love founder Dr. Martha Heineman Pieper, and further supported by subsequent academic studies. Now, this isn't the fru-fru "everyone always does everything right" kind of positive reinforcement. If a child makes a bad choice, they are asked to take the empathetic approach and realize that their actions have consequences. There are no time-outs and no harsh discipline coupled with no tolerance for bullying.

The space itself is always extremely clean (until the children do their thing) and drenched in sunlight. Kids are encouraged to make a mess with water, sand, paint, play-doh, and nearly everything else that the school has.

I endorse this school without even the slightest reservation. There's a tremendous amount of love here.

We’ve loved having our son attend preschool at Smart Love. The teachers and staff are wonderful, warm and supportive. Our son loves going to school!

I would just like to say that Smart love Family Services made all the difference for my family member. Their approach is just what they needed. The world is tough and to have a place (person) to count on that truly cares about your well being is essential.