Based on 15 reviews
About
OPENINGS: We have a short-term opening for any age until March 9th, 2025 . We also have specific part-time spots for 2 years old and above Monday through Friday from 7:30am to 4:00pm.
Van Dorn Children's Den is a licensed family child care and preschool program in Alexandria, VA. The home-based daycare is located in the Van Dorn Village, near Edison High School, about 2 minutes drive from S Van Dorn St and Franconia Rd. This location is also perfect for all commuters since they are right between the Capital Beltway (I-495/I-95) and Telegraph Rd (route 611), and 5 minutes from the Van Dorn Metro Station.
About Me
Hi, parents! Like you, I'm also a mom (I have 5 kids of my own, so I have lots of first-hand child care experience with them!) Also, I've been in the daycare business for 15 years and I'm still loving it! I simply have a genuine love and passion for children. It's very fulfilling to see them learn and grow under my care. In addition to my credentials, I'm also CPR & First-aid certified. My home daycare is a peanut and tree-nut free environment to avoid possible allergies.
Curriculum
My curriculum encompasses a wide range of subjects, including the fundamentals of the alphabet, days of the month, shapes, numbers, and colors. Additionally, I impart valuable lessons on understanding and recognizing various emotions, such as sadness, happiness, and anger. To ensure my students stay active, I also engage them in lively activities like singing, dancing, and outdoor play. I invested in my facility to make it look engaging for children, it is very colorful and has lots of wall decor. I also have age-appropriate toys, a library, blocks, etc.
Program
Van Dorn Children's Den in Alexandria operates throughout the year from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, Mondays to Fridays. I follow the play-based teaching philosophy and offer full-time care for infants as young as 6 weeks. I also provide care and early education for toddlers and preschoolers up to 5 years old, as well as children with special needs. Before and after school care are also available for older kids up to 12 years old (my child care facility is a few minutes away from Bush Hill Elementary School).
Safety
Our safety protocols entail thorough daily cleaning of toys using a mixture of bleach and water, along with weekly deep carpet vacuuming. Moreover, I ensure that proper handwashing occurs between snack breaks, lunchtime, and nap periods in order to maintain a hygienic and germ-free environment.
To get your registration fee waived, please contact us through CareLuLu!
Parent Reviews
Shahid M.
Verified Parent
Posted 2 months ago
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"This family childcare are a blessing from above."
I searched the area for a daycare and my friend was recommended to me. All three of my daughters have went to there but my two daughters are in school now my little girl 18 months, she loves her provider .They provide a warm, clean and friendly learning environment. As a father I don’t trust everyone with my children but THIS DAYCARE has earned my trust.
Menna S.
Verified Parent
Posted 3 months ago
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This daycare owner been a great childcare since my daughter was 3 months old. They are caring, compassionate, easy to work with, and love the kids.
Mohamed A. S.
Verified Parent
Posted 4 months ago
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This caregiver was our daughter's first childcare provider and we were very satisfied. We left our little girl every day with peace of mind. She is gentle and attentive with children and my daughter arrived every morning with the joy of finding her and spending the day at home with the other children.
Nathan H.
Verified Parent
Posted 1 year ago
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Our son has been attending here since he was 2 years old and I returned to the office in 2021. This has been an amazing and safe environment for him. He’s made close friends and enjoys his time playing at both the park and indoors. He’s currently prepping to start Kindergarten next year. The provider has been incredible over the last couple years. I’m grateful for having her daycare nearby!
Corey P.
Verified Parent
Posted 1 year ago
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Our son has been attending daycare with this caregiver since he was 8 weeks old. We had looked into several childcare and at-home options in the area but received a recommendation for her daycare through our neighborhood Facebook group.
We could not be happier with our daycare choice. Our son clearly loves his time at daycare and is well taken care of. He loves being around different age children and I believe it has been beneficial for his developmental growth. Our son has been attending daycare for four months and has yet to bring home any germs. She has also done a wonderful job communicating with us. We plan to continue using this daycare for many years to come.
Kenneth A.
Verified Parent
Posted 1 year ago
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Over time, the daycare became like family. Noah was always happy going there and coming back. This daycare is a fun place for kids.
Eric W.
Verified Parent
Posted 1 year ago
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She is a wonderful child sitter!
Esther V. S.
Verified Parent
Posted 2 years ago
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We have two children that attend this home daycare and we are so happy to have them in a home that is truly an extension of our own home and love. They are happy and excited to go to daycare and sometimes the oldest tries to stay longer when we come to pick them up.
Larry P.
Verified Parent
Posted 2 years ago
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This Family Childcare has been an excellent fit for our two children. The owner provides a loving environment while also implementing a robust curriculum. We've witnessed significant developmental progress in both of our children while under her care. Her facility is always clean and safe!
Chinelo N. E.
Verified Parent
Posted 2 years ago
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I want to thank her for being a part of Noah's first year. The daycare provided us with a family-friendly environment where we could feel safe leaving Noah. I highly recommend this daycare to anyone looking for a home-based daycare for their children. She can be understanding; just work with her on any concerns you may have. One thing is for sure - Noah always came back happy and is always eager to be dropped off. I'm sure your children will be happy there as well.
Response from the provider:
Thank you so much for your review! Whatever suggestions you may have on how I can improve, you can let me know! Again, thank you so much!
Gustavo G. Z.
Verified Parent
Posted 3 years ago
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After only knowing this provider for 5 months, she not only had a big impact on my daughter, but us as well. Communication is always quick, she very understanding to the chaos that happens with our work hours.. Watching my daughter get excited for daycare, is a confirmation that she's truly cares and loves what she does. She has been a great teacher, and provider for Arielle. And even though our journey with this daycare is ending because of our big move. We have truly appreciated everything she has done for our daughter and us.
Response from the provider:
Thank you so much for your kind words Gustavo! I really loved having Ariel in my daycare. Again, thank you so much and good luck in your new home!
Michael M.
Verified Parent
Posted 3 years ago
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This provider is fantastic to interact with. She is taking the time to teach our son important skills and knowledge. He loves his days at daycare and has improved his social skills, speech skills and knowledge significantly!
Response from the provider:
Hi Michael,
thank you so much for your review! I am very happy that you guys are pleased with the daycare. I am very happy to have Noah too, he is an amazing child!
Karen M.
Verified Parent
Posted 3 years ago
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Our son loves his care here! He is very excited to go and runs to the door at drop off. Communication is very quick, and this provider is very available via text. I often get pictures of our son participating in activities during the day. It is a small facility, which makes me happy because that means less exposure for our son. This provider wears a mask while she is in with the children. Our son is happy here, and we are very happy with the care he receives!
Response from the provider:
Hi Karen,
thank you so much for your review! It is my pleasure to help you. I am super glad that you guys are pleased with the daycare. I am also very happy to have Noah!
Claudia I.
Verified Parent
Posted 3 years ago
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As first time parents , we were nervous about returning to work and sending our baby to daycare. but we feel very confident that she's in loving hands. We truly appreciate the small group of kids at this daycare. We’ve notice a great change in our daughter. Ari has a great bond with Mrs. B. and we’re thankful for her :)
Contact This Program For Free
Home-based
Hours
7:30am - 5:30pm
Ages
6 weeks - 12 years
Kindergarten
No
Before School Care
Yes
After School Care
Yes
Accreditation
No
Meals Provided
No
Transportation
No
Facilities
• Fenced Facilities
• Playground
• Multipurpose Room
• Computers
