Sparkles Child Care Centers – Fairfax

My 8 month old son began attending daycare here a month ago and so far my family has been really happy with the care he has been receiving. The teachers in the infant room are very loving and my son lights up when he sees them. When I pick him up in the afternoon, they are always happy to fill me in about his day and keep a log of his activities, diaper changes, naps, etc. There is also a webcam, so we can check in on him during the day. Also, I have also found the director/​staff to be very helpful with any questions that may come up.
Another Unilocaler gave Sparkles 1 star because she is upset that her deposit wasn’t refunded after she decided to cancel her contract the day her child was to begin care there. I recently signed the contract and like most centers, 2 weeks’ notice is required to terminate your contract. I do not think it’s unreasonable at all for the center to charge her for her spot considering staffing levels are adjusted based on the ratio of infants attending the center.

Unfortunately I have to give them one star.
I went there on a Friday in need of daycare for my son on Monday due to an unforseen change in my family household situation.
They had space for him. I filled out the paperwork and the only thing outstanding was the information needed from the pediatrician and my payment.
I agreed with the front desk person that I would make the payment for the deposit and first week of daycare when I returned on Monday. I made the mistake, though of filling out the forms completely, including their auto-​draft form with my debit card number.
I did not return on Monday to start daycare. My family situation changed again over the weekend which was why I didn’t make the payment on that Friday when I was there. I knew there was some level of uncertainty, but i needed to find a place in order to be proactive.
A week after I did not return, they charged my card $ 335 for the deposit (they said)
I called and they (reluctantly) said they would give me a refund even though most places wouldn’t.
Another week went by and I had no refund.
I understand I signed everything and gave my card information, but they should also have some level of integrity when they lied and said they would give me a refund.

After having a horrible incident in my son’s last daycare. I need to say that Sparkles has been amazing. The teachers are extremely good but most importantly my son is happy everyday I pick him up he is extremely happy. I recommend this daycare 100%. I am so glad I am part of the Sparkles family. Amazing staff, amazing teachers and excellent curriculum even for the little ones.