CareCompass
At a Glance
Trust Score
Based on comprehensive analysis of reviews, safety records, and operations.
About Austin Butterfly Academy
Nature-Based Montessori in South Austin
Austin Butterfly Academy is a licensed child-care home in the 78704 zip code, offering a nature-centric curriculum for children aged 18 months to 5 years. The program integrates Montessori, Waldorf, and Reggio-Emilia philosophies, emphasizing spiritual and emotional development alongside traditional learning. Children spend significant time outdoors in a well-equipped backyard featuring a tree fort, mud kitchen, and a climbing dome. The facility also includes a bright indoor classroom bathed in natural light and a dedicated nap room. Founder Elisabeth McAllister leads a team of guides focused on conscious communication and autonomy. A major highlight is the on-site organic garden where students learn food sustainability by planting, harvesting, and even baking with what they grow. While the program is academically inspired, it maintains a cozy, home-based feel with a strict limit of 12 students to ensure intimate, personalized attention.
What Parents Say
2 reviews from parents
My son LOVES this school. He wants to go to school every day and talks about his friends, teachers and the activities they do all the time. It is such a difference from his previous preschool experience where he started to dislike going. I'm so happy we found this gem. The teachers are all kind and open for communication. My son loves that they get to spend so much time outdoors in their lovely shaded yard, and get to be hands on in so many activities (gardening, yoga, baking, painting, etc.).
Wonderful preschool. Amazing teachers, beautiful location and fun nature outdoor activities all year! Our three kids absolutely love it here!
Web Report
Aggregated insights from public records & parent discussions
Safety Record
Austin Butterfly Academy is a 'Licensed Child Care Home' (License #1760970) with a capacity of 12. No major news reports of safety incidents or legal actions were found. However, a 2023 Reddit discussion included allegations of toddlers being left unsupervised and staff using 'fuzzy math' regarding child-to-teacher ratios, though another parent reported having no issues.
Parent Reputation
The academy's reputation is mixed; it received positive coverage in Austin Fit Magazine (2023) for its holistic, nature-based approach and holds high ratings on niche sites like Winnie and TotMap. Conversely, some parents on Reddit alleged that the school 'bribed' parents for positive Google reviews and cited concerns over inaccurate billing and child management. Families who favor the school highlight the organic garden, outdoor exploration, and low 4:1 student-to-teacher ratio.
Staff Insights
The school is led by founder Elisabeth McAllister, who has over 20 years of experience, and an Assistant Director with 10 years in childcare. While the administration emphasizes 'conscious communication' and specialized training, some parent feedback on Reddit indicates a history of 'high turnover from top to bottom.' No formal employee reviews were found on platforms like Glassdoor or Indeed.
Quick Information
Varies by age and schedule
