Mary Jo Small Child Care Ctr At Brookland Woods

At Mary Jo Small Child Care Center at Brookland Woods, we are a non-profit 501(c)(3), licensed childcare center located on the University of Iowa campus. We have been providing care to the Iowa City community since 1972. Our center is much more than just a daycare - we are a community of children, staff, and families coming together to learn, grow, and thrive.

Our Philosophy

We believe that childhood development occurs along a continuum, and each child's development happens at their own unique pace. Our philosophy is built on the idea that children learn best through play, exploration, and discovery. Our child-centered and open-ended approach to childcare allows children to explore and learn at their own pace, while our staff provides guidance, support, and nurturing.

Our Program

Our program is designed to provide a fun and engaging environment for children aged 2-6. Our two through six-year-olds play together throughout the day - inside and outside. Child-centered and open-ended activities allow children to explore and learn in ways that are meaningful to them. Our staff-to-child ratio is 6:1, with two directors who are dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children.

Our Facilities

Our center is located just west of the river, close to UI Cambus and Iowa City bus stops. We have an expansive outdoor play space surrounded by old trees on a historically preserved ravine. We also have six thematic play rooms, where children can engage in various activities, from reading and exploration to creative play and imagination.

A Typical Day at Mary Jo Small Child Care Center

Our typical day begins at 7:00am, with children playing together and staff greeting them. Breakfast is served at 8:00am, and then we move on to Circle Time, where we sing songs and share stories. After Circle Time, we have free playtime, where children can engage in various activities, from arts and crafts to outdoor play.

After Morning Play, we have outside playtime, where children can explore the outdoors, play on the swings and slides, and engage in imaginative play. We also have Table Time, where children can work on various activities, from puzzles to building and creativity.

Enrollment

We offer both full and part-time enrollment options to accommodate all families' needs. We are open year-round, closing only for University of Iowa holidays, spring break, one week during winter break, and also when the Iowa City Community School District closes for inclement weather.

What Parents Say

We are proud to have received glowing reviews from satisfied parents. Here's what a few of our parents have said:

"This is an outstanding daycare center! Our daughter learned so much there, the staff were very educated and genuinely loving and kind. The kids develop excellent social skills, make friends while learning important educational concepts. We feel so privileged we chose this place. We will be grateful for life! Absolutely recommended!"

"These parents are amazing. They are so dedicated and passionate about the kids there, and it really shows. We have noticed that the ratio of adults to children is often lower than that required by law (e.g. there are more adults than need to be), allowing them to pay more attention to the kids. Also, they allow so much freedom for the kids - they are able to choose their activities which we love. Overall, could not ask for a better experience for us or our daughter!"