At a Glance
Trust Score
Based on comprehensive analysis of reviews, safety records, and operations.
About Stepping Stone School Ix
Stepping Stone School Shoal Creek
Established in Austin, this campus offers a proprietary curriculum focusing on science, technology, and arts. The facility is equipped with unique amenities including a large indoor atrium, a dedicated S.T.R.E.A.M. lab, and an in-ground swimming pool for summer lessons. Outdoor exploration is a priority, supported by four tree-shaded playgrounds featuring artificial turf. The program emphasizes social-emotional growth through its "Proud to be Polite" manners training. While parent reviews praise the nurturing environment and active leadership, community feedback highlights a close-knit atmosphere where families feel supported. Security is managed through coded access and video monitoring, ensuring a safe setting for infants through school-age children.
What Parents Say
5 reviews from parents
Our daughter has been attending daycare here for a year since she was 5 months and we have been very happy with the level of care they provide. The staff is friendly and accommodating. She has been thriving in the environment they provide with lots of outdoor play time, art activities, healthy eating habits, and encouraging social skill building. Any minor issues we have had (no daycare is perfect!) have been addressed quickly and professionally by campus leadership. Highly recommend!
Great school and great community. Staff is attentive and really cares for our child's development and well-being. Amazing hours and overall year-long availability also makes this a great choice for working families.
We love it! My 5 year old son started the aftercare program in the beginning of the school year. It’s been his favorite place so far. The team is very friendly. The facility is well kept and provides the kids with extra amenities (movie theatre, full kitchen, and soft play room). The director and the assistant director (both named Michelle) are communicative, helpful, and professional.
We’ve been here for over two years. I have only good things to say. The teachers are amazing. Not every three year old insists on having their teachers and principal at their birthday party! He absolutely loves his teachers. I couldn’t have asked for a better blend of genuine dedication, discipline, and affection from all the staff. I don’t have the easiest child and he’s really reactive to how he thinks people feel about him. That’s why my son has truly bonded and thrived with everyone who’s taken care of him these last two years. It’s been a fun safe organized and honestly loving environment that he will not forget any time soon. On a separate especially as a single mom they are so thoughtful. We just got back from a long trip and I’m under the weather but it was so sweet they even dried my kids beach towel and swim suit to make his swim lessons easier for me tomorrow so I don’t have to do laundry. That’s one example from literally today of how everyone goes above and beyond for kids and parents. I’ve been absolutely touched and surprised by by the daily kindnesses and my son won’t be the only one to miss Stepping Stone at Shoal Creek.
I have been so impressed with my experience at stepping stone school. Being a single mom with a unique custody schedule I was worried about finding care for my son that would accommodate our unique situation and make him feel at home. I feel so supported by Suzy, Shawna, and their staff. I believe they truly care for the children at the center and go above and beyond to make them feel comfortable and loved. I have seen so much growth in my child socially, his creativity , and milestones like potty training. It is so heartwarming to have my child excited to see his friends and the staff and enjoy his time and his learning at daycare. As a single mom this support is invaluable and I can’t thank them enough!
Web Report
Aggregated insights from public records & parent discussions
Safety Record
No major safety incidents or news-reported legal issues were found for the Shoal Creek location. State licensing records identify it as Operation #524298, and it received a perfect food service inspection score of 100 in March 2025. Parent discussions note the facility actively manages staff-to-child ratios to remain in compliance with state regulations.
Parent Reputation
The school has a mixed reputation, frequently described by local parents as a reliable 'gap filler' option while waiting for openings at more competitive centers. It is highly recognized in local media, winning 'Best in Childcare' awards from the Austin American-Statesman in 2025 and Austin Family Magazine for 27 years. However, parents on community forums frequently highlight high staff turnover as a primary concern.
Staff Insights
Employee feedback is polarized between internal testimonials and external parent observations. While the school's official materials feature long-term staff testimonials praising the professional growth opportunities, multiple parent reviews on platforms like Reddit describe a 'shoestring staff' with frequent turnover and constant efforts to maintain required ratios.





