CareCompass
At a Glance
Trust Score
Based on comprehensive analysis of reviews, safety records, and operations.
About Child Craft Schools
Historic Play-Based Care and Shaded Yards
Established in 1957, Child Craft School is a fixture of central Austin, offering a cozy and nurturing environment for children ages five months to five years. The program is managed daily by Director Rachel Munoz and a long-tenured teaching staff, many of whom are praised by name in parent reviews for their caring nature. The school utilizes a play-based curriculum spread across age-divided classrooms and a large, tree-shaded playground that provides ample space for daily exploration. Families appreciate the transparent monthly tuition which includes hot lunches and healthy snacks prepared daily. The facility is known for its down-to-earth atmosphere and community-focused events, such as seasonal holiday celebrations. While the school maintains a vintage feel, its focus on social development and structured learning prepares students for their transition to kindergarten in a homey, quiet neighborhood setting.
What Parents Say
5 reviews from parents
This is a historic place in Austin. Our 1-year old daughter attended ChildCraft for about a year and a half and we loved everything about them. The staff members are caring and always informed about each kid, willing to chat and help. The teachers are very supportive of the kids. The place is big, cozy, with a big playground. Celebrating Halloween and Easter was always great! Thank you Child Craft family for all you do!
We have been at Child Craft for over 2 years now. My daughter started there and has not had a single complaint since. She gets up looking forward to school! My son started there at 5 months and I have also seen him flourish under their care. Ms. Rachel, the director has a wealth of experience and knowledge and you can tell she is still very involved in the day to day of the school, it's her baby. We love all of the teachers there! Ms Dione, Ms Brandy, Ms, Monica, Ms, Linda, and Ms Jane. Ms Keana floats and is also great. I love the nutritious meals they serve and knowing I don't have to worry when I drop them off. They always come home happy tired, and full of songs and other tidbits. The artwork they send home is very nice and I have saved a ton for keepsakes. They regularly involve the families in events and I have gotten to know some of the other parents that way. The playground and outdoor space is unmatched. Your kids will play in a large shaded area with plenty to do and tucked away in a quiet neighborhood. I can't recommend it enough!
Child Craft has been a phenomenal experience. Both my son and daughter attended, and I feel so fortunate to have found them. The teachers are loving and child centered. I love the school, in a beautiful, homey central Austin neighborhood. The first time we met with Child Craft Director Rachel was to enroll my 2 year old son, after a bad experience at another childcare place. Rachel put us at ease, and our experience only got better. The next time we enrolled, was when I could not get my daughter into PreK through ISD. I'm glad she didn't get in honestly. She's enjoyed structured learning in her preK class at Childcraft, and lots of social and outside time too. Plus they serve nutritious lunch for the kids. Also, many of the staff have been there for years. The teachers genuinely seem happy and at ease too. Lots of communication for the parents, and good experience for the kids. We'll miss ChildCraft, as my last kiddo to attend is onto Kindergarten.
My son loves Child Craft School. He stayed with me until he was 2.5 and at 3 now he has had a great first school experience at Child Craft. He regularly tells me that he loves the food and the toys--I love the staff and the environment. One of my favorite homey Austin places. Down-to-earth, friendly, genuine. Child Craft is a great place.
A place for a child to develop and learn through quality care, curriculum,nurturing, and fun activities for children to learn through play.
Web Report
Aggregated insights from public records & parent discussions
Safety Record
Child Craft School has a Safety Risk Index (SRI) of 2.04, which is classified as 'High Risk' according to an Austin-area childcare safety ranking based on state inspection data. The facility has recorded 14 total violations, including 3 serious safety-related deficiencies, and holds an overall state inspection grade of 'C-'. A 2025 routine health inspection by Austin Public Health resulted in a score of 99.
Parent Reputation
The school has a long-standing presence in the community with some parents reporting a nurturing experience over multiple decades. However, its overall reputation is mixed due to its high-risk safety ranking and concerns regarding aging facilities. Recent parent and employee feedback highlights a nature-focused environment but cautions about the need for building and playground maintenance.
Staff Insights
Employee reviews indicate concerns regarding the physical condition of the facility, with one teacher describing the building as needing an upgrade and the playground as a potential hazard for children. Staff members have also cited low pay, a lack of benefits, and an old-fashioned curriculum as drawbacks, though some appreciate the school's flexible scheduling.
Quick Information
Varies by age and schedule
