A

Alli Leefrom Google

5.0

TLDR - if you are lucky enough to work with Prospect Kids Academy, do it. -- Two years in, I think Prospect Kids Academy is one of the strongest early childhood programs in South Slope. I've spent my career around classrooms and learning design, so I don't say that lightly. The school is one large room, refined over twenty years of running the model in Park Slope, founded and still run by Quin and Josie. They're present constantly without hovering, which lets their teachers hold real authority in their own classrooms. That authority shows. Dani, Alex, Vlera, and others - meet kids with patience for exactly where they are that day, and push gently a little further. Dani, in particular, is a genius at this. She holds a room the way a conductor holds an orchestra, reads individual kids accurately, and stays visibly, unmistakably joyful about the work, in a way a two-year-old can pick up on. The curriculum has clear routines underneath it, with enough give for a kid's current obsession - chemical reactions, trash trucks, you name it. In my experience, schools that have been around for many years, over time, can treat the caretaking part as a transaction: drop off, pick up, a rundown of naps and meals and behavior notes. PKA doesn't work that way. Pickup runs long because kids don't want to leave yet. Parents end up talking in the doorway longer than planned. That groundwork, kids comfortable around peers and adults, is what lets them walk into more structured classrooms later with confidence. Our kid is moving on to Pre-K next year. PKA helped us find our footing back in Brooklyn, and we're lucky enough to live close by, so this isn't really goodbye. We'll be walking past most days, and we already know it means a wave, a smile, a hug, fist-bump, and a secret handshake through the front door.

J

Jenny Chenfrom Google

5.0

When my husband and I were looking at daycare options, we knew we needed more than just a place to watch Liam while we worked. We both work full-time and don't have a ton of extra help, so finding childcare was important—but we also knew these early years are so important, and we wanted a place where he would truly learn, grow, and thrive. One of the things we love most about PKA is the mixed-age classroom. Liam started when he was 2 and now he's almost 4, so we've had the chance to see both sides of it. At first, the older kids helped guide him and showed him the ropes. Now, we get to watch him do the same for younger children. It's been so sweet to see, and it's honestly helped him step into his role as a big brother with so much confidence and care. What we love about PKA is that it's not just academics, and it's not just childcare. They've helped Liam build real-life skills and independence. He can do things like button his clothes, put on his own shoes, apply sunscreen, and handle so many little tasks on his own. It's amazing to see how capable and confident he's become at such a young age. Another favorite in our house is PKA Around the World. The kids make their own passports and learn about different cultures, traditions, and foods from around the globe. The best part is definitely the taste tests! Liam gets so excited about them that now whenever we want him to try a new food at home, we just say, "Taste test time!" and he's all in. Something else that really stands out about PKA is how much they care about building a community for the parents, too. We're from Staten Island, so we don't often run into Liam's classmates and their families around the neighborhood. PKA's parent nights gave us a chance to get to know other families, make connections, and feel like we were part of something bigger. From day one, we've always felt welcomed, included, and supported. PKA has been such a special part of our family's life. They've given Liam so much more than a place to spend the day—they've helped him become a kind, curious, independent little person. We honestly wish we could keep him here forever!

A

AFM17from Google

5.0

We love PKA! Our daughter has had a wonderful and enriching experience. The teachers are kind and supportive, and have created a curriculum that fosters creativity and learning in our child.

T

Ted Burkefrom Google

5.0

We cannot recommend PKA highly enough. Our daughter attended the program when she turned 2, and from day one Quin and Josie created a space that felt like a true second home, somewhere she felt safe enough to take risks and grow. They run it with so much intention and heart. It’s intimate, deeply creative, and built around letting kids explore and discover on their own terms. Every child there seems to genuinely flourish. What struck us most was how our daughter came out of it: more confident, more curious, and excited about the world in a way that grew every single day. She could not wait to go to school each morning, and as a parent, there’s no better feeling than that. Every single teacher is wonderful. You can tell they truly care about each child as an individual, and that care shows in everything they do. If you’re looking for a place where your little one will be loved, encouraged to grow, and free to be exactly who they are, this is it.

G

Georgia Drakopouloufrom Google

5.0

We couldn’t be happier with our experience at PKA! Quin, Josie and all the teachers are wonderful! They are not only nurturing and attentive, but also professional and skilled at engaging children in amazing activities. Our child has blossomed socially and academically since joining. She genuinely enjoys every day and comes home excited to share her news. We love all their activities and the fact that they spend a lot of time outdoors. We always feel informed, and part of the community. We are truly grateful to be part of PKA. Highly highly recommend to any family in Park Slope looking for a nurturing, high-quality early education experience!