Bright Bear Academy

I am not one to typically write reviews but felt it was worth it here. My children have been attending Bright Bear since the grand opening over a year ago. The way our family is treated here is something special. We are treated like more than family. Our children have grown to create life long relationships with the staff here that will continue on well after they grow out of school. Carolyn has helped grow our children (all 3) both educationally and how to go about life. Our oldest has grown up with her while at a previous center and now our youngest gets to experience the same support at Bright Bear. Our kids run to her arms in the mornings to give a huge hug. Sabrina has created a school that is so enriching for the children. Every day the kids come home having learned something new. And she isn’t afraid of getting down on the floor and playing with the kids either. Jess has been a huge support. Our kids are always yelling her name when they see her in the hall asking “what are you doing?” She is usually busy helping with kids and covering whatever is needed. She’s usually there at drop off and pick up and the kids love her. Taylor is always there to support. She sends constant updates through the app telling us how our children are doing, typically our young twins are climbing all over her because of the bond she has created. Stella has helped our soon to be kindergartener learn and grow so much. He has worked hard to get far above where we expected heading into Kindergarten. He has been writing, reading and even starting up on multiplication. This school has been a haven for our children and family. The staff goes above and beyond to put the families first. We would highly recommend this school for any family whom is looking to expand their children’s knowledge. It is an extremely safe environment where we trust our kids to learn and play every day.

I don’t usually post reviews like this, but given the circumstances, I feel compelled to share my experience and leave it to you to form your own opinion. We toured the school a couple of days ago, and at first, everything seemed perfect. Jessica guided us through the entire facility, and there was a strong emphasis on safety standards and proper care quality for children, excellent infrastructure and staff. The pricing is affordable, and there’s even a 10% tuition discount. We truly felt this would be a one-and-done decision. However, something happened during the tour that left us speechless and deeply concerned. As we were finishing, we heard someone shouting, “Sit down now!” That person was yelling so loud that we heard it from the other room. We continued walking until we reached the classroom, where a teacher was yelling loudly at a toddler and threatening him: “You won’t get lunch if you don’t sit.” This was happening while I was looking through the classroom door. After an awkward silence, we asked Jessica if this was how children are treated. She responded that the teacher—Ms. Caroline (or Carolyn)—is “a little bit tough” and that “that’s just her voice.” I asked again if there was any risk of children not being allowed to eat if they didn’t sit down. Jessica replied, “Yes, I think you’re right—I’m going to talk to her right now.” That moment was very concerning to us. We felt disappointed and heartbroken after such a positive first impression. I usually end my reviews by saying whether I recommend a place or not. I understand kids are difficult and we (as parents) cannot control certain things but that situation, it's something that nobody wants ho hear about. Maybe some people would disagree and may think this is the proper treatment to provide. I’m not trying to damage anyone’s reputation, but I do feel obligated to share what I witnessed happening to that young child. Ultimately, I’ll leave it to you, the reader and potential customer, to decide what to do. Thank you for taking the time to reading this.

It was easy to schedule a same day tour online. The tour was great. I was looking for daycare so my son can have structure & socialization. The director & staff were nice & polite answering my countless questions as I am a FTM whose kid has never been to day care yet. This place is newly established in a new facility so it is modern as well as clean. They provide meals which I loved. They seem accommodating as my son is picky eater. Place seems structured, organized & welcoming. It is one of the nicer/fancier ones that I have toured. Price wise it is a little higher in comparison to home day care but nowhere high like Primrose/Goddard. They have great long hours from 6:30am & as late as 6:30pm due to working parents or medical professional working nearby in Lahey. That would be a selling point for parents working long shift. I liked it but sadly I preferred one closer to my home as I hate traffic.

As an infant teacher at Bright Bear Academy, I have never felt so happy to go to work! I feel truly appreciated every single day. The environment is warm, welcoming, and supportive—not just for the children, but for the staff as well. It’s such a joy to be part of a place that values what we do and creates a positive atmosphere for everyone. I’m grateful to be here and highly recommend Bright Bear Academy!

I’m both a teacher here and a parent of two kids who attend, and I couldn’t be happier. Every morning we’re welcomed with kindness, and the admin team always makes a point to say good morning and check in. You can truly feel that they care about the children and the staff. The other teachers and coworkers are loving, supportive, and amazing to work with. It’s such a relief knowing I don’t have to stress my kids are safe, happy, and learning every single day. The curriculum is wonderful, and there are always fun, engaging activities happening. My children enjoy coming here so much, and as both a teacher and a mom, that means everything to me. I highly recommend this daycare. It’s a positive, caring environment where kids truly thrive. ❤️