CareCompass
At a Glance
Trust Score
Based on comprehensive analysis of reviews, safety records, and operations.
About Handprints Academy
Handprints Academy: STEM-Focused Waco Learning Center
Handprints Academy in Waco has been serving local families for over 15 years, offering a curriculum that blends play-based learning with a strong emphasis on STEM. As a Texas Rising Star partner, the center provides specialized classroom environments for every stage, from infants needing individualized care to school-age children seeking after-school adventures. The facility features themed learning centers for literacy, math, and science, alongside indoor and outdoor play spaces designed to keep kids active and engaged. Directors with educator backgrounds are on-site daily, fostering a homelike atmosphere that prioritizes social development and safety. Families benefit from the Procare app for real-time updates and peace of mind. With flexible hours starting at 5:30 AM and tuition that includes nutritious, nut-free meals, the program is designed to support busy working families while ensuring every child feels inspired to learn and grow.
What Parents Say
5 reviews from parents
I was looking for preschool for my kids, I scheduled to go there and when I arrived there were no one at the front. I literally got inside of the preschool as the doors were opened. No safety. The smell in the place was really bad, when I walk towards the big hallway to see if someone was in there I noticed the poor maintenance of the place… all door painted looking that really need some caring. Something felt wrong in this place. (I visited multiple preschools but this one I did not feel a safe, clean and caring environment for my kids) when I left I saw from the parking lot the playground really dirty, messy… windows that were dirty as well. I noticed that one of their vehicles probably got in some accident as it was in a really bad shape. My review is based on trying to have a tour and noticing a lot of red flags for a childcare facility.
I had nothing but positive experiences with this daycare and I wish there was one closer to my new location, although that still wouldn’t replace the employees that my baby absolutely adored every time I dropped him off at this location. I definitely recommend ❤️
My daughter has been at Handprints since she was 8 weeks old and just had her little graduation 3 years later! Handprints is amazing and always took such great care of my girl! We love Tina and all the staff there! ❤️
Handprints is hands down one of the best daycare facilities in the Waco area. I have known Tina and the staff there for over 10 years due to sending both of my kids through their program. The Pre-K program is great and the kids learn a lot of stuff to jump start them for Kindergarten. While my oldest is going in to middle school, my youngest still goes there and looks forward to seeing her friends and staff each day. I would recommend 10/10.
Absolutely love Handprints! The teachers are amazing and the staff is so friendly. I definitely recommend them to anyone who is needing childcare. They treat my kids like family and they help them so much with learning. Definitely a place for all kids. They also offer you peace of mind every time the kids are happy and love the teachers.
Web Report
Aggregated insights from public records & parent discussions
Safety Record
No specific news reports of safety incidents, major legal issues, or closures were found for this location. The facility is a state-licensed child care center (License #1604536) with a capacity of 205 children and is currently in good standing with Texas Health and Human Services. Parent reports on secondary platforms indicate a high level of trust and satisfaction regarding the safety and well-being of their children.
Parent Reputation
Handprints Academy in Waco has a positive reputation among parents, with reviewers highlighting the friendly staff and the long-term tenure of some families attending since 2015. Parents describe the environment as safe, nurturing, and professional, frequently recommending the center for its hands-on learning approach. The facility has received high scores on local recommendation sites for its STEM-focused curriculum and social development programs.
Staff Insights
While brand-wide reviews for Handprints Academy are mixed regarding corporate management and pay, parent feedback for the Waco location specifically praises the attentive director and consistent teaching staff. Employees at other branches report rewarding experiences working with children but note challenges with high workloads. No specific negative employee reviews targeting the 120 Woodhew Dr location were identified.
Quick Information
