Willowcreek Academy: Child Care with a Family Feel

Parents of young children search for the perfect day care arrangement for their child. It feels so important to get the right fit, with loving care for one's child.

Many area parents find that perfect fit at , tucked away off Route 28 at Lee Highway. When Centreville Patch recently asked readers they would recommend to a friend, parents about the school.

That didn’t surprise Pamela French, executive director of Willowcreek.  “Happy parents tell other parents,” said French, adding that word-of-mouth is their only advertising.

French is a veteran childcare provider. She has taught preschool, been the director at preschools and served as vice-president for a large daycare center chain. While she was proud of the work she did, she missed the close relationships with the families and the children. When the opportunity arose to open her own center and the chance to be “doing things the way I’d like to see them done," she acted.  

The result is Willowcreek Academy, which opened in 2003. French’s staff is top-notch, several with advanced degrees in child development and education. Their facility, peaceful and inviting, is the home away from home many parents are looking for. Each age group has their own developmentally appropriate area. The rooms are sunny and cheerful, ready for any activity. The outdoor play ground is spacious, with stations for outdoor learning, water play, gardens and play equipment.

“We looked all over before finding them and I'm so glad we did. It is truly the best feeling to know that your child is safe, happy and cared for while you're at work,“ said Amanda Heggestad, whose three-year old daughter attends Willowcreek Academy.

Not only do parents feel that Willowcreek is top notch, but Northern Virginia Magazine chose the center as a Top Day Care provider in 2009. The center was also chosen “Best of Fairfax” by the Fairfax Times in 2008.

“Academically, socially, and emotionally they have helped my daughter flourish, cared for her and loved her day in and day out,” said Melissa Dyas, another Willowcreek parent.

The days are busy for all age groups. French described it as “TLC with developmental skills—songs, games, activities and more.” Her staff completes 20 hours of in-house training during the year and are also encouraged to take courses and workshops through George Mason University, the State of Virginia or county’s Office for Children.

“The staff really embraces our approach. This is all about the kids,” said French. 

Special guests visit the center frequently, including Reptiles Alive, magicians, dancers and others.

French also anticipated higher security at the center, for increased parental peace of mind. Every parent has their own access code to enter the building. Visitors need to be met by staff. French also has live-feed cameras installed—not for internet viewing, but for parents to stop in and watch their child without interrupting their play.

Willowcreek also holds six or more family events a year to strengthen their community and bring families together.

“We know everybody –grandma, grandpa, aunts, uncles,” said Krystin Kiehnau, director of the academy.

She said that the current group of school age children includes several of the children she taught as toddlers. Families tend to stay with Willowcreek Academy. 

“We talk to parents: ‘how can we make your child’s life better?’ This is as close to individually based child care as you can get,“ said Kiehnau.

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