Little Elks Preschool South Elkhorn Christian Church

I ultimately chose to withdraw my 4 year old child from Little Elks Preschool due to concerns about how behavior was interpreted and communicated. While I appreciated the care and warmth shown by one classroom teacher, my experience with administration raised significant concerns. Prior to enrollment, I specifically asked whether my child’s neurodivergent needs could be accommodated. I was told: “Yes, we would love to have your son and work together with you and possibly his OT to put plans in place that will help him be successful at school. We do not have the ability to have a 1 on 1 aide in the classroom but do have extra support teachers that are available if situations arise that the teacher is in need of additional support for transition times or those times that he may need a little extra time to look at a visual schedule to help with transitions.” Unfortunately, when challenges arose related to my child’s neurodivergence, his behavior was described using subjective, character-based labels such as “rude” and “defiant,” rather than objective descriptions. No clarification was sought before intent was assumed. When I shared that this language was hurtful and concerning, I did not receive accountability, reassurance, or an apology. After notifying the school in writing that I was unenrolling, I was removed from the school’s communication and payment app and never received confirmation of unenrollment or any follow-up communication. This further contributed to concerns about professionalism and communication. For families with neurodivergent, gifted, or emotionally sensitive children, objective communication, psychological safety, and collaborative problem-solving are essential. Unfortunately, after raising these concerns, I did not feel confident that these needs would be consistently supported in a positive and developmentally appropriate way. This program may be a good fit for some families, but it was not the right environment for my child.

Wonderfully caring, based on Montessori principles but open to more traditional methods when appropriate.