The Childrens School

200 South Oak Park Avenue

Oak Park, IL 60302

44 Reviews

School District
Grade

K-8
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by parent on October 25, 2024

As a parent of a first grader at The Children’s School (TCS), I couldn’t be more thrilled with the impactful changes we’re seeing since our new Head of School took the helm this past spring. This isn’t just a shift in leadership; it feels like a rejuvenation of the school’s mission to support each unique learner in ways that go beyond the basics.One of the most exciting updates is the Building Intervention Team (BIT) approach, introduced this year. This team brings together the Head of School, classroom teachers, and specialists to create a holistic support system tailored to each student. It’s clear that TCS is focused on nurturing every child’s academic, social, and emotional growth through both proactive and responsive measures. We know our children are in caring hands that won’t let any child’s needs go unmet.The new structure also includes updated assessment tools that provide valuable insights into each child’s progress in a balanced way. At TCS, these assessments are used to inform and enhance the whole learning experience rather than define it. My child’s learning journey feels more intentional, joyful, and relevant to who they are.Communication has been top-notch, with regular updates and a clear focus on equity and inclusion. I can see the commitment from every teacher and staff member to prioritize each child’s development in both academics and social-emotional skills. My recent conference with our child’s teacher was a testament to this, where they provided not just a report but a complete picture of my child’s growth across various areas.We’re so grateful for this “crew” at TCS! The leadership’s dedication to refining and enhancing our school’s approach, even amid the complexity of modern education, is remarkable. This isn’t just a school; it’s a vibrant community deeply committed to creating equitable, high-quality learning experiences for each student.
Submitted by parent on August 15, 2024

I pay a learning specialist for something teachers didn't mention for years, and an OT 3x/week for handwriting that should have been taught in school (the OT sees a number of kids from TCS for similar issues). I taught my kid to read by 2nd because they don’t use evidence based methods. My smart kids were not “motivated.” One spent years “lounging and bored” and another didn’t produce enough work all year for the teacher to be able to answer where she’s at. One asked for harder math, but TCS couldn't accommodate. I just discovered the other is behind in math. There’s no science/geography/history outside projects. Project work delayed teacher help in my kid’s area of need for months. I had accepted giving up a diverse school with kids like mine, but with their STEM interests, I can’t risk them not being prepared for high school.TCS attracts kids who are neurodiverse, anxious, twice exceptional, socially challenged, bullying targets, gifted,special ed, LGBTQ,etc, but teachers aren’t trained in these. TCS is NOT a neuroaffirming space. There are teachers who don’t have a clear sense of basic definitions and hold negative and outdated views.Despite touting social justice/BLM/pride, the only acknowledgement was for MLK day 2x in 5yrs. Zero LGBTQ discussion despite the student body.Migrant families almost froze to death nearby and some sheltered in what had been my child’s classroom weeks prior (in the old bldg) and it wasn’t discussed. TCS didn’t share DEI efforts as requested despite faculty, staff, and families leaving complaining of racism.My kid was blackmailed, humiliated, punched, hit, shoved, subjected to appallingly cruel comments, and routinely insulted, without accountability, even with new leadership. She was forcefully dragged by a kid who said that they intended to put her head in a toilet and kiII her. TCS never investigated or talked to either child to make sure they were ok, and, despite my insistence and escalation, NEVER notified the other child’s parents. A boy grabbed my daughter from behind at school, dropped her to the ground, pinned her, moved her body around with his, then got up and jumped on her wrist. The school called it “play” gone too far (she said “NO“ the whole time), said that the boy didn’t remember jumping on her wrist, and reminded him about boundaries. And that was that bc he was “joking.” But my kid was punished harshly for avoidant behavior. This is not a school where advocacy is possible. TCS didn’t value my child.
Submitted by parent on August 13, 2024

Excellent place for children to learn to love learning and participate in democracy. Social justice and character building are core values. True progressive education in the spirit of John Dewey and other great progressive educators. Students are met where they are and given the freedom and support to be themselves while they work together in class projects chosen by the students. I attended a progressive school in K-5 and went on to earn an advanced degree at a research 1 year institution, and I’m thrilled my child has the chance to experience this amazing learning environment.
Submitted by parent on June 20, 2024

I loved TCS for my daughter until we took advantage of a free math tutoring session in which I realized she was two year below grade level and has reached a very critical period where foundational skills are much harder to teach (6th grade). I'm devastated that I have failed my child. Since our tutoring session I have meticulously combed through old narrative reports-what TCS uses in place of report cards--and I see no red flags or indication that she was falling very behind. The report was filled with "is working on" statements which I'm now guessing meant that she wasn't meeting standards. What's worse is that reports always came AFTER conferences. Conferences were always positive so I must admit that I read them with the thought that anything really concerning would have been brought up at our in-person meeting. The school claims to focus on social emotional learning and that "active learning". Translation: it's completely up to your kid to absorb deep learning. If anyone ever brings up that they had a negative experience, it is blamed on the individual. I now see things through a different lens. They teach math through the random worksheets the teachers finds on google. They don't believe in textbooks for core subjects, but a quick internet search is good enough for their untrained teachers. They don't teach history. There was virtually no science this year. My child received *one single* science lesson on circuits the last week of school. They go to the woods about twice a month but they literally just play the whole time. Such a missed opportunity to bring loads of scientific learning opportunities to the field. It's very easy to make this kind of learning play-based and cooperative. I wasn't sure I wanted to report our experience until a recent letter to the editor of our local paper from a former TCS student outlined a very similar experience and how she is still feeling the effects in high school. That same day (6/19) a very vague review popped up on here to counter the former student's arguments. I know there will be a slew of glowing reviews to come and bury my experience, but I hope someone finds this and it helps. I hope the school reads this and finally listens instead of burying their head in the sand. Nothing will change with the new head of school unless the teachers don't start receiving proper training.
Submitted by parent on June 19, 2024

Our student loves TCS. They are excited to go to school everyday. The community is wonderful and inclusive in many ways. Reading, math, science, critical thinking instruction is excellent. Students are encouraged to love learning, be curious, and advocate for themselves. Because of how learning is structured at TCS, students are inherently challenged to think critically, speak/advocate and listen. Math instruction allows for learning basics and creates flexible thinkers and problem-solvers. I continue to be excited by the teaching methods of TCS and look forward to my child continuing to learn in a school that allows for freedom and creativity and minimizes the knowledge-deposit model that dominate education. Learning is active. TCS understands and embraces this to the great value of students and families.
Submitted by parent on April 18, 2024

TLDR: My kids eagerly go to school Every. Single. Day. When my oldest was aging out of her preschool/kinder program, we toured 10+ schools looking for good fit. She was admitted to several gifted programs that boasted children would be learning 2 grade levels ahead during elementary school. Then we toured The Childrens School and it clicked for me that this is a place with deep respect for childhood. After more than 3 years at the school (and 2 children now attending), here are some of my favorite things (in no particular order)- Small class sizes which allow for personalized attention and strong teacher and student relationships. The teachers are excellent and really know the children.- Woods and prioritizing outdoor time; spending a day a week at a nearby forest preserve allows for nature time and exploration. The skills, knowledge, stamina, and confidence that emerge spending time outdoors enhance every arena of a child's intellect- Project work, the children come up with topics they want to explore and vote to decide what to study. From my perspective this approach engages children in hands-on, collaborative projects where learning is immersive and relevant- Regular group gatherings and town hall meetings where children make announcements (public speaking skills) and real decisions (like should we have an all school pajama day, and if so - when?) Fosters community building & democracy- Field trips! On the CTA, walking or by bus these kids get out and about. The conservatory, local shops/libraries, parks, museums, urban goat farm, etc. Last year, they went to lake Michigan to release fish they had raised from eggs in the school - how cool!- No grades and minimal homework allow for pressure free environment and free up time after school for kids to explore other hobbies/interests- Wonderful social worker on staff who is available to children & families and leads parts of the social emotional curriculum After spending time together, a distant family member made the comment "Wow - your kids are interesting & interested" - a complement I attribute to their school.We are naïve to think we understand the careers of 2040+ but the critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills fostered at The Childrens School will enable the creativity necessary for success!
Submitted by parent on April 09, 2024

The Children’s School has been a great experience for my family. Through their project-based learning environment, my children have thrived and grown academically and social-emotionally. TCS has been especially helpful for my shy daughter, who lacked confidence and struggled with reading at her previous school. She has transformed at TCS into a confident student who enjoys going to school. We loved the multi-age opportunities that fostered student leadership and collaboration and with a small school, our children also had the chance to meet other kids outside of their class. We do not receive many worksheets from TCS because the learning process is focused on activities that are engaging and meaningful such as book clubs, math discussions, and story writing. The teachers have a deep understanding of my children's learning styles and what works for them. My oldest child, who is now an honors student in high school, has continued to love learning and has developed an appreciation and respect for the adults in his life. I attribute this to the philosophy of the school and the relationships that the teachers at TCS have with the students.
Submitted by parent on April 07, 2024

We couldn't be happier with our experience at The Children's School. Selecting a school for your child can be challenging. We've been conditioned to believe that direct academic instruction is the most effective method of learning, which can sometimes obscure our understanding of what true learning entails. TCS genuinely considers the unique needs of every child, meeting them at their current level without any judgment or pressure to conform to societal standards. As a parent, this approach might initially feel intimidating, but observing how the teachers collaborate with the children reassures you that your child is in capable hands.One of the standout features of TCS is its sense of community. From the moment we joined, we were welcomed with open arms into a supportive network of parents, teachers, and staff who genuinely care about the success and well-being of every child. We're particularly impressed by the small class sizes, which allow for personalized instruction and meaningful connections between students and educators.One of the things that sets TCS apart is its emphasis on hands-on projects. Our kids are constantly engaged in exciting, interactive learning experiences that spark their curiosity and creativity. These projects not only reinforce academic concepts but also instill valuable problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Importantly, TCS is not the kind of school that promotes rote memorization of facts; rather, it encourages deep understanding and application of knowledge.Perhaps most importantly, our kids genuinely look forward to going to school every day. Their enthusiasm is a testament to the nurturing and stimulating environment that TCS provides.Overall, we couldn't ask for a better school for our children. We're grateful for the sense of belonging, the exceptional teachers, the hands-on learning opportunities, and most of all, the joy that TCS brings to our family's educational journey. Highly recommended!
Submitted by other on April 05, 2024

Our granddaughter has blossomed at The Children's School. Our family feels lucky to have found such a school. The staff have considered the needs of our granddaughter and has helped us decide on her path through the past years of school. In Kindergarten, she was a child who had grown up in an adult world and had little skill managing the social world of her peers. Today she is a happy, smart, proud, independent third grader who manages to easily interact with peers. We are amazed how she is able to make connections from what she is learning to her everyday world. In the summer after second grade, she began reading everything in sight. It was rather amazing. She continues to surprise us with the Math knowledge she is being exposed to. The projects of the classrooms teaches confidence and gives meaning as she applies what she is learning. The projects extend knowledge in topics pursued. The presentation to others is invaluable.As an early childhood educator, I know children learn best through meaningful play . I know children who do so are able to incorporate words, numbers, etc naturally into their world, given the opportunity. The base provided by TCS in the first three grades was so valuable. Upon entering third grade, more "work " has been required while still maintaining a purposeful learning environment. She has met the challenge, and continues to look forward to school each day. How wonderful to have found a school that makes children happy to attend and learn!
Submitted by parent on April 05, 2024

Our children have attended TCS since kindergarten and they are now in 6th and 8th grades. The emphasis on social and emotional development and well-being as just as important as academics has been an incredibly important part of what has made TCS a great fit for our family. When we travel or visit places in the community (restaurants, museums, etc.) I frequently hear from adults in those places how impressed they are with the confidence and curiosity my children display. The project work they have experienced over the years has helped them practice high-level critical thinking and to see meaning and relevance in what they are learning. The teachers are outstanding.
Submitted by parent on March 24, 2024

Do not send your young child here if academics matter to you in the slightest. I originally loved the idea of children learning their a project-based curriculum, but projects in the early elementary are nothing but craft work with perfunctory academics sprinkled in. Nothing is taught systematically. Instead, students are expected to magically absorb the fundamental academic skills they will need in the later grades, such as learning to decode and basic arithmetic. After losing half their kindergarten class over this issue last year, they finally introduced a phonics curriculum this year, but teachers still resist implementing it and continue to impose their own personal beliefs about when kids should learn to read on students and their families. Parents who ask about their child's reading abilities get shut down and shamed by teachers and admin. We were assured that academics would improve in the second grade, but our child could not read or write with third grade around the corner. We wish we had listened to our instincts when our concerns about reading were dismissed at the end of kindergarten and through the first grade. This school may be perfect for you if you're only considering it for K or your goals for schooling are solely social-emotional, but please beware. Do not let them dismiss your academic concerns, and be prepared to teach your child to read at home or pay for a reading specialist to catch them up once you decide to leave. This school may also be excellent for children who have already acquired the basic academic skills of early elementary. However, do not send your child here if you expect hem to learn anything substantial through second grade. TCS loves to boast about their graduates, so ask admin to connect you to parents of eighth graders who have been there since K. It's also worth examining how K-2 prepares young children for later grades. Instilling a "love of learning" is a fine goal, but it's hollow without academics. We joined this school because we didn't want to impose the unnecessary stresses of standardized tests and emphasis on grades on our child. We also joined because of the school's social justice mission. Social justice learning in the early elementary was virtually non-existent beyond the performative stage. Reading instruction is a social justice issue, and TCS is failing at their mission in that regard as well.
Submitted by parent on January 30, 2024

I cannot speak highly enough about TCS, it's faculty and staff, curriculum, and other students. We joined three years ago after a great Montessori experience for pre-school through first grade. Our twins are thriving, developing into beautiful writers with great presentation skills, and with a deep appreciation for social justice issues and the environment/nature. (The school takes the kids to Thatcher Woods weekly or bi-weekly depending on grade level as part of the regular curriculum). Cannot recommend it highly enough.
Submitted by parent on December 21, 2023

The Children’s School has been an incredible place for my family. I’ve had kids in 1st-7th grade so far. My 3 kids are very different, and they have all thrived at TCS in various ways. The Children’s School has a truly wonderful community of kind and caring parents and amazing teachers. There are many opportunities for movement and play across grade levels, which is so important for whole-child wellbeing. A love of learning is fostered here through hands-on curriculum and project-based learning that inspires children to learn by following their innate sense of curiosity. The projects they do are really amazing to experience. The students are kind, caring, and supportive, even in middle school–yes, this is possible! I have seen firsthand the magic of a kinder, cozier middle school experience, the amazing impact it has on students and the peace it brings to our family life. I am so glad that we found TCS and made the choice to send our kids here. It has truly changed our life.
Submitted by parent on November 12, 2021

Before we joined the Children's School I used to volunteer in my son's public school library. I would often watch the librarian beg the children to sit still and be quiet, often threatening them out of frustration: "quiet hands and quiet bodies or we will have to stop reading this book!" When my child transferred to the Children's School I saw what seemed like a miracle. The second graders were presenting their projects to parents and the other children were sitting and reading books quietly when it wasn't their turn to present. No threats, no nagging, no constant reminders. THIS is the magic of the culture of mutual respect between teachers and students at The Children's School. Have to go to the bathroom? Just go. Hungry? Have something to eat whenever you want. Want to read your book laying on a couch or stand up when you do math? Go right ahead. We stayed at The Children's School from 2nd to 8th grade. I wish they had a high school. The teachers (especially the middle school teachers) are amazing. I especially loved how much time my child got to spend outdoors and how many trips and amazing projects they would complete. It's a simply magical place that we were very sad to say goodbye to!
Submitted by parent on March 05, 2019

We have two children who attend The Children's School (TCS), one in 4th grade and one in 1st grade. Both have attended since kindergarten and have thrived. We were attracted to the school by the small class sizes, the attention to social-emotional skills as well as academics, and the focus on fostering a love of learning. When we were looking at schools for our son (the oldest), we knew he would do best in an environment where he could move around more freely in his classroom, he could be engaged in longer-term projects, and his instruction could be differentiated so as to challenge him. That's why we chose TCS.Both our kids continue to love learning, and they are intrinsically motivated to improve because they have a voice in their education and their school community. They both have a passion for reading and are at or above grade level, and we don't have to spend hours with them on homework. They write daily, produce detailed and beautifully illustrated stories, and choose a favorite story to read out loud in front of their classmates and parents at the end of the year. Our kids spends their afternoons in the TCS after-school programs. Our son has participated in chess club, running club, pottery and cooking classes, while our daughter does dance and visual arts projects. We are grateful that they are so engaged that it is sometimes difficult to get them to leave. We are confident that they will go onto high school with the skills they need to succeed in high school and beyond, because they are learning to solve problems, work in teams, write well, think critically, plan for how to complete long-term projects, advocate for their needs and interests, be attentive to social justice, and be kind, thoughtful members of a community.
Submitted by parent on December 18, 2018

I have four children and we have been in the school for 9 years now. It has been an overwhelmingly positive experience. I will say that no school can meet every child's needs 100% but we have really loved our TCS experience and look forward to many more years there.
Submitted by parent on October 04, 2018

Extraordinary. I cannot say enough good things about both our experience as parents and our daughters' experiences as students at the Children's School. The faculty and community are child-focused, supportive and appropriately nurturing. And the new facility is gorgeous! This is one of the best decisions we have made as parents and that feeling is reinforced on a regular basis.
Submitted by parent on October 03, 2018

Quite simply, the Children's School changed our lives. After our daughters completed 2nd & 4th grade at a local Oak Park public school, we knew that change was necessary for them and our family. We were prepared to make whatever sacrifices were required to ensure school was no longer the stressful grind it had become, but rather an enriching and challenging experience that would help them grow into whole individuals.If only we had made the switch sooner! The Children's School greeted us with an entire school body of children who believe in their self-worth and teachers and administrators fully committed to these kids and their progressive education. Shed were the endless worksheets, hours of homework and standardized tests that had chiseled away at our little ladies' interest and curiosity to learn. This was replaced by a project based curriculum, an appropriately informal / non-bureaucratic school day regimen (no bells, red/yellow/green punishment system, tardy slips, line-ups, etc.) which re-activated the excitement to get to school and find out what fun challenges lay ahead each and everyday. In addition, they were able to reclaim their afternoons and evenings to play and be kids. From the weekly swimming sessions at the Oak Park YMCA (helped hold off the winter doldrums), to the abundant field trips, to the amazing new location, there are so many exciting things happening at the Children's School. On the first Friday of each month they hold an open house for curious parents and kids to meet the administrators and current parents and take a tour of the new building at 200 S. Oak Park Ave. I encourage anyone considering a switch for their kids to attend and learn more about what the Children's School has to offer.
Submitted by parent on August 28, 2018

Both of our children graduated from this school. As a result of their diverse learning experiences and the critical thinking skills they acquired in this supportive environment, they are excelling academically as well as socially in high school and in college. They attribute their love of learning, skills, confidence and successes to their experiences at The Children's School.
Submitted by parent on July 31, 2018

Our child has been there for 6 years. We have been happy with her love for learning and growth as a person academically and as an active citizen. She has been exposed to so many great opportunities in group work, creative learning and research of new things. The teachers and staff are always available to provide support. The community is caring. My child likes school and now loves learning as she goes into middle school there.