Testimonials

I am writing to highly recommend Minnieland Academy – Occoquan as a safe, caring, educational day care for children.  I am the parent of a child who has been in the older infant and toddler classrooms and am comforted with the knowledge that I am leaving my son in highly skilled and capable hands every day when I drop him off at school.    Everyone that I have met on the staff at Minnieland is friendly, knowledgeable, nurturing, and firm but fair.  Each day we are greeted by the staff with a friendly “good morning” and a “have a nice day” on my way out.  Everyone on staff is required to go through comprehensive training before even setting foot in a classroom, and it shows.  Teachers are well versed in childhood growth and development and have a wide skill set to draw from to meet the unique needs of each child.  The teachers at Minnieland genuinely love and care for children and provide a level of comfort and nurturing that is almost as good as having mommy there.  Tears from mommy leaving are wiped away with love, noses are wiped with care, and boo boo’s are made better with hugs (and prompt cleaning and a phone call to mommy or daddy to let them know what happened).  The teachers at Minnieland are in tune with the children’s needs, even if the need is a gentle, but firm, reminder that we “must all play nicely together”, and no, “we are not allowed to dump our milk”….and always – “two feet on the floor, please.”    The facility is clean, well kept, and specifically designed for children; half doors to see what is going on in all of the rooms, child-height sinks, and child-sized facilities in the appropriate aged-rooms.  Each classroom provides plenty of space to explore and not feel restricted.  Classrooms are stocked with age-appropriate, safe, educational toys designed to teach as well as stimulate imaginations.  The Director is always available and highly visible within the facility. They are just as engaged with each child as the teachers are and are committed to ensuring that children are in a safe, comforting, educational environment.  We knew this was the place for us when we walked in, even at 12 months old, I could tell that my son was at home here.  My son LOVES going to school every day.  

--Brook P., parent at Minnieland Occoquan

My son has been going to your center for 2 years.  He LOVES it!  He comes in running through the door to school every morning with a big smile.  It is so great leaving my son in an environment that he likes.  You are all so wonderful!!!!  

--Christine, parent at Minnieland at Stone Ridge

From the bottom of our hearts, we are grateful for the love you've all shown our precious daughter.  

--Stephanie and Leandro A., parent at Minnieland Ashbriar

I absolutely love both my kids teachers they are so amazing and loving to my girls I couldn't ask for better teachers to be with my kids all day. Thank u for all u do.

--Kendra R., parent at Minnieland Ashbriar

I really appreciate the sense of security I feel when I drop my children off in the morning.  I am always confident that they are having fun and being well cared for.  The boys are always happy when we come to pick them up.  Their favorite part of the day is outside time.  The playgrounds are fun, exciting and safe. Thanks.  

--Mark, parent at Minnieland at Stone Ridge

Just wanted to share with you the  progress of Nyla's plant.   She checks it everyday and talks gibberish to it🤣, but enjoys seeing it grow.   Thank you so much for starting the process of planting seeds and watching it grow.  This applies to so many areas of our lives and it's important to me as a grandmother to know that she is off to a great start; and that's a contribution from the Staff and influence of Minnieland Academy. Thank you especially for the leadership team Kim2 and Kim1 of this center. In all sincerity each teacher that interacts in Nyla's life play a major role in her development 👏.   When we awake in the morning and I say "do you want to go to school?"  Nyla jumps up and says yes!!  That is definitely a sign of good seeds.  Again I want to say thank you to all for being our SEED!!  I truly appreciate Minnieland Academy Occoquan!!  

Jeannine C., grandparent at Minnieland Occoquan

My school aged son just started summer camp at this Minnieland. He has only been there a week, but I am soooo beyond impressed.  I was so stressed when I took my son to look at Minnieland. I think the director could tell that, and she really took her time showing me around, explaining to me how she runs her childcare, etc. She truly cares about the kids and her business. The facility is SUPER clean. It helps that it's new, but you can also tell they just really take care of it. According to my son, the food is AWESOME. He raves about the food at Minnieland! He also says the lunch lady is very sweet and he enjoys not only her food, but talking to her! The teachers are great! They really have fun with the kids, they care, but they also keep structure. I never hear them yelling  The activities are fun too. My son actually is learning and having fun, which is amazing for me. He is 10 and I did not want him just playing on electronics all day. I have been very impressed with everything to do with this daycare. In fact, I am thinking about transferring my younger to boys (ages 3 and 7 months) to Minnieland. Right now they are in an in home daycare, but this Minnieland is just so amazing that it might be worth the switch!

--Rebecca S., parent at Minnieland Ashbriar

Our son loves everyone at Minnieland. He always has fun there. The teachers and staff are great.

--Jackson Family, Minnieland at Central Park

Our daughter is registered in the Junior Kindergarten program at Minnieland at Ashbriar.  She is always excited to get to class and see what the day holds with her and her friends.  Her teachers are wonderful and make her feel cherished as an individual as well as part of the class team.  As a parent, we have been overjoyed with how much she has learned academically and socially in the short time we have been registered with the center.  The entire staff is friendly and is always available with a welcoming smile to answer questions and offer suggestions that are best for our family.  

--Jenn, parent at Minnieland Ashbriar

I am writing this letter to extend my warm thanks and appreciation towards you and your daycare center for providing the impeccable services. I sincerely appreciate Ms. Kieno Kim Norford (2) and Ms. Kim Rucker (1), the Directors and leaders of Minnieland Academy for your personalized attention and care towards my grandchild.  Everything starts with good leadership.  You exemplify that each day I walk through your doors. It is so comforting as a grandparent to see that your child doesn’t complain going to the daycare because she enjoys the friendly atmosphere there. Thanks to you and your staff, my grandchild has learned how to walk, learning to talk, developing social skills, since her time at your daycare when I must go to work. You assisted me in decision making regarding my grandchild when going through challenges as she grows.  We adore all the teachers. I am extremely thankful to you and the entire staff for taking such good care of my grandchild and making her feel secure, comforted and assured that she is growing healthy.  I feel extremely connected to you’ll and consider the staff at Minnieland Academy my extended family. I once again recognize your dedication and commitment towards taking care of children.

Jeannine C., --grandparent at Minnieland Occoquan

--Kiara F., parent at Minnieland Ashbriar

I cannot begin to express my love for the staff, program, and happiness that consumes us each and every day. As a former employee I was instilled with a very particular environment I wanted my child to be exposed to. Naturally, I was drawn back to this center. The moment my daughter was enrolled she was welcomed with so much love and positive energy. She amazes our family by the new things she learns each and every day with so much enthusiasm and excitement. This is what parents look for in an early learning center. Minnieland @ England Run is shaping my daughter into a well-rounded, confident, smart, and happy individual. The curriculum and encouragement from her teachers are preparing her for the future in a way that makes her want to learn. The positive energy and constant communication from the directors and her teachers makes me feel beyond comfortable and confident my daughter is in the best care. I couldn't ask for a better group of people or program for her. She truly is "learning in a loving environment".

--Christina C., parent at Minnieland England Run

This Minnieland is fabulous! My daughter only went here for 6 weeks because we moved. She was in the infant room. The teachers were very friendly and caring. My daughter always smiled when we got there and seemed to have a lot of fun everyday. The ratio was always correct (4 infants per teacher). As soon as they would go over, the director or someone else would go to the room until another teacher arrived. There weren't too many kids so I knew she was getting plenty of attention. My only complaint is that they gave bottles every time she cried instead of figuring out why she was crying. On her first day, they gave her a ridiculous amount of milk, when really she was crying because she was tired. After a few days, they were able to figure out her needs better though. I definitely recommend this location!

--Kerri C., parent at Minnieland Heathcote

We visited many preschools in our surrounding area and found everything we were looking for at Minnieland Academy @ Central Park.  My son is in his 2nd year in the Montessori program at the school. He will soon graduate and head off to Kindergarten next year (Eek!) We are so thrilled with the progress he has made socially and academically at Minnieland.   The amount of material our son is learning is truly amazing!  He loves to tell us about his day at school and all of the fun he had with his friends.  His favorite activities include table toys, block center, riding the bus (for field trips) and home living. Knowing that my son is safe, happy and learning a lot and excited to go to school everyday makes it so easy on our family.  We know he is in excellent hands.  He absolutely loves it at Minnieland and we couldn't imagine being anywhere else!

--Beth and Jason S., parents at Minnieland at Central Park

I can't believe after 17 years we won't be making that morning and evening stop at Minnieland Ashbriar.  Thank you so much for taking such good care of our children.  You are part of our family and we will miss you terribly.  You and all the Minnieland staff have been so wonderful and will always be in our hearts.  We promise to come by and visit often!

D & S., parents at Minnieland Ashbriar

We have been a part of the Minnieland Academy @ England Run family for nearly 10 years. We have been particularly pleased that in a lot of cases the staff has been stable enough that, even though they are five years apart, both girls have had the same beloved teachers. The director has always been very flexible and accommodating with our non-public school schedule, which has really helped.  And in all the time we have been there, we can count on one hand the times the Center has closed for inclement weather – something we really appreciate. We have recommended the Center to friends and do so with no hesitation.  

--Susan and Richard, parents at Minnieland of England Run

I would love to thank Minnieland Academy Occoquan location.  My son has been going to the center since October and since he has been attending, the staff has been so caring. They also welcomed my baby girl with open arms and have treated her like their own. They are soon to have all four of my children and I can trust they are in the best hands. I couldn't do what they do but I'm just glad they are here pouring into my children. I'm grateful for all that they do.

--Danielle S., parent at Minnieland Occoquan

Ever since I walked in the door with my son as an infant, I have been grateful to all the care and attention he received from the infant room to the SAC class.  When my daughter enrolled 3 years later, she received the same care and attention.  I want to acknowledge all the wonderful teachers and staff who have been caring for my children as if they were their own.   I know my little ones are in good hands when they are with the wonderful staff at Minnieland at Occoquan.

--Nathalie J., parent at Minnieland - Occoquan

I just wanted to take the time to thank you for everything your staff does with my daughter.   Every time she comes home I notice something new she has learned at daycare.  She says please and thank you after everything (which is new in the last 2 weeks for her) which we reinforce at home as well. She signs to me all the time for food and more food hahah.  She is so smart and can point at things and tell me what they are. I owe it all to you guys for working with her during the day!!! Thank you ! Everyone is doing an amazing job !    

--Tessa H., parent at Minnieland Central Park

We have been very happy with the recent teach additions to the infant room.  Both  teachers are very attentive to all of the children's needs. They are both conscientious and communicate with us about our son's day. The classroom seems to be better under control and over all a better environment than we have seen since transitioning into the class last fall. It would be great if they remain as the primary caregivers during the day.  

--Amy and George S., parents at Minnieland Ashbriar

--parents at Minnieland Heathcote

Thank you for the love and care you give each and every day.  We appreciate all that you have done to make us feel comfortable as we transition to Virginia.  It means so much that our children are happy to be here.

--Megan L., parent at Stone Ridge

I can say with full confidence that our daughter received the best care ever at Minnieland. I'm forever grateful to all of you for helping to educate her in so many ways and helping her form into the young lady she is becoming. You have all been instrumental in her growth on so many levels. You are more than teachers, you are more than educators, you are more than daycare providers and you are more than friends, you are, in every sense of the word, family. I feel so blessed to have been part of the Minnieland family for 11 years.

--Keri S.. Minnieland at Dale City

Minnieland has always been very helpful with me and my son. I can remember when I first moved to Virginia I was late coming home from a meeting and there was an accident on the freeway. Of course being new to the area I had no idea how to get around it. Ms. Roxanne called me and stayed on the phone with me while she directed me through the back roads to get there. I of course was freaking out I have never been late to pick up my son and she was so calm and patient with me I will never forget it. I can honestly say that I feel comfortable sending my son here. He loves all the teachers and tells me that daily. Thanks Minnieland for all your help.

--Nickola B., parent at Minnieland at England Run

As a parent, I love to see my daughter come home happy after a day of fun and laughter.  As an educator, I’m thrilled to see her learning and growing in a warm and nurturing environment.  

--Francesca, parent at Minnieland Ashbriar

--Sana Y., parent at Minnieland Stoneridge

We have seen remarkable growth from our child during his time in the Junior Kindergarten program at Minnieland.  He comes home every day excited to share with us the new things he has learned.  His vocabulary, understanding of numbers and his ability to read and write has flourished under the patient and dedicated tutelage of his teachers.  The benefits of this program go beyond standard academic achievements as evidenced by the social development we have seen in our child.  We have the utmost respect for Ms. Mary and Ms. Nikki and cannot begin to thank them enough for providing our son with the tools necessary to ensure a successful and seamless transition into kindergarten.  The Preschool 1 program at Minnieland has proved to be an amazing environment for our son.  Ms. Reese and Ms. Nakeya are two of the most patient and consistently friendly people, making them perfect for working with the day to day challenges that toddlers present.  We came to know and appreciate Ms. Reese as she played a huge role in the development of our oldest son and we were beyond excited when we discovered she would also be working with our youngest.  Our son wakes up every morning excited to see his friends and teachers.      

--The J Family, Minnieland Ashbriar

Minnieland England Run is awesome! The staff greets us every morning and afternoon.  They always present themselves as happy and glad to see every family.     It's a great school and my son goes without tears most days.  They do a great job involving families.  I would highly recommend this Minnieland.

--Jamie B., parent at Minnieland England Run

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude for the outstanding services received at Minnieland Occoquan.  The variety and quality of the activities organized for the children is very impressive!  I appreciate the commitment to excellence and family-oriented values that I observe each day.  The staff's hard work and passion for childcare have not only benefitted my granddaughter but also brought peace of mind to our entire family.   Thank you for making a difference!

--Jeannine C., grandparent at Minnieland Occoquan

I just want to express my sincere gratitude for the love, and the commitment that your staff shows, In my profession I can only say that this is a direct attribute to the leaders The Duo Kim”s -Kim O & Kim R, Night Supervisor Ms Abby, the beautiful teachers that are educating themselves to Provide Skilled reinforcement to our kids because everyone wants to emulate a leader. My granddaughter has been attending the Academy for 2+ yrs. Their reinforcement, how to Respect & Accept people for who they are, as well as give her best side to everyone allows me to feel even more comfortable that she is in Safe hands and is helping her to be a better person in life.. The duo team and staff they walk the talk.. I appreciate that most highly because the team leaders will hold everyone accountable for doing what they’re supposed to do.    

--Theresa P, grandparent at Minnieland Occoquan

I just wanted to say thank you to you and your staff for taking such good care of our children. Our daughter's transition to the infant room went so smooth ... I couldn't have asked for more. The teachers were very welcoming and supportive.  She seems very happy and you can see she loves the additional interaction. As always our son loves school and he loves telling us about his day and all the fun stuff he is learning about.  Thank you again for everything!!

--Elizabeth, parent at Minnieland Gainesville

Minnieland South Riding saved us after bad incidents with 2 in-home daycares. The staff is so considerate of each child's needs and personalities and it's obvious that they truly care about the kids and their happiness. They send live updates and pictures which really make my day. If something looks like a potential problem, they are on top of it and work with the parents to make sure everything is on track and everyone is happy. We could not be happier with the TEAM at South Riding.

--Robin Arthur, parent at Minnieland at South Riding

It is said that more people tend to provide feedback or comments when the service is not up to par. I on the other hand have always believed that when amazing customer service or care is being provided that everyone should be aware of the service. It allows the person providing that service to realize that their efforts were appreciated and that they made the person on the receiving end feel good. I have been brining my four year old daughter to Minnieland Heathcote for three years and my 17 month old daughter since she was six weeks old. I have encountered such caring, intelligent, creative individuals at my Minnieland. They have nurtured my girls as if they were their own children. My girls are being intellectually challenged every day that they are there and are offered an array of activities to meet their developmental needs. A parents biggest fear is trusting someone to properly care for their child. Not once have I questioned my decision to have my girls at Minnieland Heathcote. They are safe, happy, well cared for, and intellectually stimulated every day. I had reservations when I had to bring my daughter at six weeks old. She was born almost two months early and was very fragile. I felt like a horrible mother for bringing her so soon. Diane Woods, the Director calmed my nerves (and wiped my tears), and was there for me through the turmoil I faced. She has been a great resource to me since I was a first time mom and always available if I ever had any questions. My daughter was officially diagnosed with Asthma and requires a nebulizer treatment when her Asthma acts up. Minnieland Heathcote will administer this medication for this potentially life threatening diagnosis. They allow me to continue to work without wondering every second of the day if my girls are okay. I am so honored to have met Diane and to be able to have my girls surrounded by such an amazing staff of teachers. They are all so kind and do an amazing job with my girls!!! I love Minnieland Heathcote!!! Thank you for putting my heart and mind at ease.

--Sara B., parent at Minnieland Heathcote

--Sarah S., parent at Minnieland Occoquan

Thank you so much for providing a warm and caring nest for our daughter over the last three weeks.  We are so grateful that you welcomed her back into your community so openly.  In such a short time, she has made many new and old friends and has learned a tremendous amount of songs, stories, and routines because of your support.  We had fond memories of our first time at Minnieland, and you have each contributed to giving us new special memories.  We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your care and kindness.    

--Kate & Steve, parents at Minnieland Occoquan

My daughter has been attending the Minnieland in Stone Ridge for almost 2 years now.  I recently had another child and without hesitation enrolled my 6 week old infant. My only regret  is that I did not enroll my older daughter sooner.  Minnieland has a wonderful caring staff and a warm, cozy feeling about it. As soon as I walk in the door every morning to drop off my two children that sense of relief comes over me. Just knowing that the teachers treat my children with the love and respect, calms my nerves about leaving them for the day.  

--Cathrine, parent at Minnieland at Stone Ridge

The Minnieland staff is friendly and caring and really create a family environment.  They provide the children the perfect mix of learning and fun.  The amount of structure and activities that occur in the classrooms daily is amazing.  Minnieland has helped my child learn and grow in a ways that I never thought were possible!  

--Suzy S., parent at Minnieland at South Riding

--Chris M., parent at Minnieland Heathcote

My daughter has been attending Minnieland from 2023 and we couldn't be happier with the care she receives. Since joining there I've noticed my daughter becoming more social and confident. She's learned so much and is always excited to share what she did during the day.

--Navya G., parent at Minnieland Stone Ridge

Minnieland is great place for children to learn and grow. The loving support from the teachers really gives the children a lot of confidence. My son was extremely shy and quiet when he first enrolled in the preschool one program. It is amazing how much more extraverted he has become over the last year and a half. He now talks constantly to his teachers and I often hear stories about the other children he plays with and children he plays with and talks to during the day. It makes me so happy when I go to pick him up and he is always playing with other children and smiling and laughing. He has come a long way from the little boy who never talked.

--Monica, parent at Minnieland at Stone Ridge

My two children both attend Minnieland Academy at Central Park for over 5 years and they have had only positive experiences.  My oldest is now in kindergarten and the knowledge she took with her from the Preschool classroom has made her the student she is today.  My youngest is currently in the Preschool Explorers classroom and will be moving up soon.  She has loved coming in to Minnieland everyday and runs straight to her classroom to see what they are doing for the day.  I have watched both my children grow and flourish from infancy to school age and I couldn't ask for anything better.  I will continue to bring my children to Minnieland knowing I am placing them in wonderful hands.  Thank you Minnieland Academy at Central Park.

--Central Park Parent

My daughter is in Pre-School  at Minnieland at Central Park. The center is friendly, warm, and very accommodating. Her classroom has a multitude of activities that include art, cooking, reading and singing, just to name a few. My daughter enjoys coming into the classroom and never wants to leave. The teachers are professional, welcoming, and understanding of each child’s needs as well as the parents. I recommend this center to any parent and as a matter of fact I am currently enrolling my second daughter into the infant room.  

--Lorraine, parent at Minnieland Central Park

We are so grateful for the work you do!  Taking care of the youngest members of our families and community is a service of immeasurable value.  You are nurturing and loving these beautiful souls and that is such important work for all of society. It takes incredible patience, gentleness and grace and you do it so well!  Thank you! Thank you!

--Kiran D., parent at Central Park

Our daughter really enjoys her time at your daycare, like many of the children, she really doesn’t want to leave at night.   I know she’s happy there and loves the staff and fellow children.    Thank you for your time and friendship that you have given not only our child but myself.  

--family at Minnieland Ashbriar

My only sadness about Minnieland at England Run is that my daughters are no longer there.  My 13 year old was there since she was about 6 months old, and the 8 year old since she was 3 months old. They both LOVED it there.  During all that time, a significant number of teachers were constant, which at a place like a daycare really says something. They are dedicated and loving at all stages, being careful to always have an appropriate teacher-to-student ratio and spending time each day with every child in their charge.  Even the slightest injury is tended to and carefully reported, with action taken to address the cause.  I would not hesitate to recommend Minnieland Academy at England Run for child care at any age.

--Former parent at Minnieland England Run

Our 3 1/2 year old daughter  has been coming to Minnieland at Heathcote since its doors opened last year. The main reason we choose Minnieland was because of the teachers. What we love best about Minnieland and its entire staff is the love and nurturing the children received. They are greeted with smiles and hugs every day. In a sea of many children each child is made to feel special. The variety of educational and fun activities are wonderful and we credit them with teaching our daughter educational and social skills and preparing her for kindergarten. She comes home every night with a different story of all of the wonderful things she learned during the day including being able to write the letter J. We know for sure that when we drop her off every morning, she is in very good hands, and that she will have a day of adventure ahead of her.   We have and will continue to recommend Minnieland to coworkers and friends and would tell anyone who is interested to observe a Minnieland classroom for a little while. They will see for themselves what a great place Minnieland is.  

--Anthony and Charlet, parents at Heathcote

Love the Staff at Minnieland Academy at England Run. I have been using this center for 9 years and would happily recommend it to anyone looking for a place to send their kids. The staff is loving and seems just like a family. Some of the teachers have managed to have all 3 of my children. I felt that my kids came out of the JK/Prep program more than ready for Kindergarten. When they were babies they were well looked after and I always felt like the staff loved them like their own.

--a parent at Minnieland at England Run

My grandson attends Minnieland Academy in Haymaket Virginia. The teachers and staff are wonderful. They have a fun filled summer camp as well. I would definitely recommend Minnieland if you are looking for a fantastic daycare

--Laurie S., grandparent at Minnieland Heathcote

I just really wanted to commend the Southpoint location and their staff. My son has been going just over a year and I've never had an issue. In fact, these teachers go above and beyond. Everyone is always friendly and I've never had to worry about the quality of care my son receives.

--Amber W., parent at Minnieland Ashbriar

My son has been going since November and I absolutely love this place. A child care center is only as good as the people who run it and Ms. Karen is amazing.   She not only talk the talk but she steps in when needed and walks the walk.   At anytime you will see her step in and work alongside the teachers.   She rolls up her sleeves and dives right in without being asked.  All the teachers I have seen are patient and very involved in the care and well-being of each child. I see them all giving extra attention to kids who may need it and I see them praising good behaviors. My son has transitioned wonderfully and loves going to school.

--Nazira O., parent at Minnieland Ashbriar

Quality Excellent   I could write for days about how happy I have been with Minnieland at England Run. From our very first visit on they have exceeded my expectations. I work mostly from home but needed a place for my 11 month old son to stay one day a week for the occasions where I needed to go into the office. I looked at nine different daycare centers, including a few other Minnieland locations, from Fredericksburg up to Arlington where my office is. While they all seemed competent I had an immediate comfort level at the England Run center that I hadn't felt anywhere else. They are always friendly. The rooms are clean and well organized. The teachers are fantastic, and even though our son only goes once a week they remember details about our family and life outside of daycare. They really go out of their way to make sure that our son still gets to participate in all of the curriculum items like art, reading, and music. It's clear that even at that young age the teachers are focused on teaching, and not just babysitting. In fact, even at only one day a week I feel like our son is greatly benefited by attending. They really help our son to transition comfortably when I drop him off, and it's obvious that each teacher really cares about the kids. I'm not sure how they manage it but I've never seen any child just left to cry, even for a few minutes, which used to happen often at our previous daycare. I have never had a single concern with this center; I know each time I drop my son off that he is in excellent hands at the most caring, competent and well-run center anywhere in this area.  

--Kathryn G., parent at England Run