At a Glance
Trust Score
Based on comprehensive analysis of reviews, safety records, and operations.
About Mama Melli Childcare Center
Holistic Nature-Based Learning on Farm
Mama Melli Childcare Center offers a unique, holistic environment situated on a 31-acre farm in Southwest Austin. Our philosophy is a joyful blend of Montessori, Waldorf, and Reggio Emilia traditions, focusing on the development of the whole child through unconfined outdoor play and meaningful connection. Director Melissa Peck, an author and former Chinese Medicine practitioner, has designed a program where children engage in gardening, forest adventures, and regular mindfulness through weekly yoga and music classes. The facility distinguishes itself through daily interaction with friendly farm animals, including goats, chickens, and bunnies, fostering empathy and responsibility. With two distinct programs—the Holistic Development Program for toddlers and the Butterfly Garden Forest Program for older children—the center ensures age-appropriate discovery.
What Parents Say
5 reviews from parents
Mama Melli's is such a sweet daycare. Our daughter (3) spent an awesome 6 months here and we really appreciated the play, communication and care of the owner and teachers. She will miss her Mama Melli family.
Mama Mellie’s is fantastic! My toddler loves playing outside and learning from his teachers. I love the small class sizes and that he gets to play with other kids in a good age range.
We toured every child care center in the area, you won’t find a more caring, loving and nurturing place than Mama Melli’s. Our kid was shy, quiet and reserved, and after almost a year here, he is now much more outgoing, chatty, and full of excitement every day he gets to go see his friends at Mama Melli’s. It’s exactly what our kiddo needed, outdoor time, with animals, yoga, singalongs, and loads of wonderful toys to play with. The teachers are so incredible and kind. We could not be happier with our experience here, and we highly suggest you check it out!
We highly recommend Mama Melli’s - especially if you’re looking for a lower adult/child ratio which is so important. Our little guy has so much fun there with yoga, guitar songs, lots of outdoor and nature play. Melissa is one of the best early childhood directors I’ve encountered - she is loving, trustworthy, responsive, and cares for each child and cares for her staff too. Thank you, Melissa and teachers! ❤️
We are so grateful for the loving, nature filled, play based program at Mama Melli’s and have had our child there for 2 years. The small class and school size has played a positive role in the close relationship our child has with peers, teachers, and the owner/director Melissa. Our child is excited and eager to go to school to see friends and teachers. Melissa is very understanding and clear with communication and always warm hearted and open minded with children and parents. We are very grateful to have found this hidden gem 💎.
Web Report
Aggregated insights from public records & parent discussions
Safety Record
No safety concerns, legal issues, or news-reported incidents were found. The center is a licensed facility with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (Operation No. 1665241) and maintains an 'open door policy' for parents. Staff are required to be CPR and First Aid certified, and the facility follows a positive and gentle discipline policy that prohibits corporal punishment.
Parent Reputation
Mama Melli Childcare Center maintains an excellent reputation with a 5.0-star rating on childcare platforms like Winnie. Parents consistently describe the environment as 'magical' and 'peaceful,' praising director Melissa Peck for her kindness and effective conflict resolution. Common themes in reviews include the benefits of the nature-based curriculum and the center's role as an 'extension of the family.'
Staff Insights
Employee testimonials describe the center as a 'low stress' and rewarding work environment characterized by a 'second home' atmosphere. Staff highlight the benefits of low teacher-to-child ratios, which allow for more individualized attention and meaningful connections with families. Management is praised for being patient, attentive, and supportive of teachers' individual talents and growth.
Quick Information
Varies by age and schedule





