The Mary Jo Small Child Care Center at Brookland Woods is 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. We are much more than the average daycare. Our unique program creates a fun and happy atmosphere.
Imagine being at a great summer camp AND a huge family reunion! It is our belief that childhood development occurs along a continuum and that each child's development happens at their own, unique pace. Our belief in this natural and evolving developmental process shapes every aspect of our program.
Imagine being at a great summer camp AND a huge family reunion! It is our belief that childhood development occurs along a continuum and that each child's development happens at their own, unique pace. Our belief in this natural and evolving developmental process shapes every aspect of our program.
Services
Present children are seated at 8:00. As children arrive, they are invited to eat. When each is finished, they are excused to free play with staff in the rooms we have open. Group time with stories and songs. This is optional. Children who don't enjoy sitting for stories or songs may opt out and continue to play.
Parents can choose the level of care that best suits their needs, their child and their budget. In our experience, consistent and frequent attendance are important components in a successful transition to our center. The sheer amount of time spent with us directly correlates to children's trust and comfort levels.
We are licensed for 28 full-time children. Because we also allow for many flexible, part-time care arrangements, we usually have more than 28 children who attend at different times. We offer a wide variety of part-time options and will do everything we can to meet your scheduling needs. We have children who come 2 days/week, 3 days/week, half-days, and more.
Reviews (3)
Rory R.
Oct 04, 2019
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J. M.
Sep 02, 2019
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We have loved Mary Jo Small at Brookland Woods and so has our kid! The backyard of sand and nature is awesome. It’s great to have a place your child wants to go to everyday. It’s very conveniently located by the hospital. Sharon and Jill are incredible with children. Brookland Woods is one of the reasons to stay in Iowa so the next kid could have the opportunity to go here too!
Lisa Kuehl
Aug 15, 2013
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I worked at Brookland Woods Child Care Center (now Mary Jo Small) in the late eighties and early nineties. The director Sharon MacDonald was warm and nurturing both to the children and her staff. It is a very child centered program, and highly developmentally appropriate. The children were always engaged in a variety of activities of their choosing and the directors allowed for staff creativity to play a part in the children's development. Had I the opportunity, I would happily send my kids there today.
