University Child Development Center

We love University CDC! We’ve been attending for a couple of months now, and both my preschooler and toddler are thriving. The teachers are wonderful—my kids come home every day excited to share the activities they did, and I’m constantly impressed by all the creative art projects they bring home. It’s clear the teachers take time to truly get to know each child and plan meaningful, engaging activities. 💕 The director is very approachable and hands-on, both in the classrooms and with parents. Even the kitchen staff know who my kids are, which makes the whole school feel like a close-knit, caring community. The tenure of the staff is also telling—it’s clear that the teachers and administrators genuinely enjoy what they do and care deeply about the families they serve. The building itself is a bit older, and honestly, that gave me some hesitation at first. However, the staff does an amazing job making the most of it. They fill the space with the children’s artwork and decorate with fun, seasonal themes, creating a warm and welcoming environment. It’s hard to find childcare you can truly trust, but I feel confident and at peace knowing my kids are happy, loved, and well cared for at University CDC.

All the teachers and staff are amazing with the kids. They really care about them and want them to succeed. The director loves the kids and works with the staff and children to make sure they are always taken care of have have the best possible. They have amazing reading programs for families to make reading a priority to the kids. They really care about the kids and it’s not just business to them. There needs to be more centers like this. I would recommend all parents to check this place out.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A true hidden gem — don’t overlook Woods. We’ve tried multiple daycares, and the moment we walked into Woods Montessori, we knew it was different. It may not be the flashiest school, but it excels where it matters most: safety, emotional development, real-life skills, and a true sense of community. Why Woods stands out compared to traditional daycare: • Calm, nurturing classrooms — never chaotic • Montessori philosophy that builds independence, confidence, grace & courtesy • Teachers are guides — not drill sergeants or babysitters • Children learn emotional regulation & real-life skills (pouring, cleaning, sharing, problem-solving) • Low ratios and meaningful one-on-one time • Leadership that supports teacher retention and growth • Strong, welcoming parent involvement (formal PA/ambassador program) Kids even get the opportunity to engage in extracurriculars during the school day — my kids enjoy music, theater (they even put on plays!), tennis, soccer, and gym sports — rare offerings at this age. Leadership & Teachers Head of School Ms. Nikole, Assistant Head Celena, and Juliet are warm, communicative, and truly invested in each child. Woods not only finds amazing teachers — they keep them. That continuity matters. • Infants/NIDO: Calm, clean, nurturing. Ms. Isabel has a magic touch — newborn families will feel safe here. • Children’s House (3yo): Ms. Aura & Ms. Andrea are patient, loving, and gifted at emotional coaching and transitions. • Toddler Spanish Immersion (2yo): Ms. Carmen & Ms. Christina are unbelievably nurturing — patient, kind, and truly second moms to our son. Montessori vs Daycare — Our Outcome At past daycares, children were supervised. At Woods, they are guided to become independent, confident, emotionally aware, and kind human beings. The growth in communication, independence, and confidence is noticeable every single day. There’s nothing wrong with other great local programs like Davidson Day, Forestal, Community School of Davidson, Cadence, or Goddard. But don’t overlook Woods — it is a true hidden gem. This is a school that protects childhood, builds real-world skills, and feels like family. If you’re touring or expecting a baby, make sure Woods is on your list.

I was hesitant about this center at first because of the reviews from when this center was ran under a different Director. But y’all, let me tell you! I am a mother of 3 under 5. All three of my children now go here thanks to the generosity of Mrs. Forney and the Management Team at CDC northcross. My children are greeted with friendly smiles, the communication from staff to parents is great, and my children love it. I will forever be thankful for this team. My children will be better off from attending this center. ❤️

Our son is at UCDC @ Northcross through the Pre-K program and attends their wrap around after school care program. He has been thriving and learning so much! He talks about his teacher all weekend long and can’t wait to see her again by Monday. Ms. Forney is always present and cares deeply about the children and the programs they offer.