Day care center · Grimes, IA · reviewed since 2019
iHow the Experts Score is calculatedEach factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (standing in the category can only raise it), then weighted; problems flagged in review highlights or a recent slide in ratings are subtracted:Satisfaction 55%77+42Reliability 24%69+16.7Value 14%44+6.2Replies to reviews 7%95+6.7Craft & service penalty95−0.5Momentum penalty80−2Experts Score= 69Grade B: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39. Needs 10+ reviews.69SCORE
BGradeiLetter from the Experts Score: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39, F = under 20.
#29 of 45 after school careiPosition by Experts Score among all companies we track in this category. · better than 36%
4.8★★★★★46 Google reviews · 12 photos
93%five-star reviews
4.50★last 12 monthsiAverage stars on reviews from the last 12 months only.
5%1–2★, last 20 reviewsiShare of 1–2★ reviews in the last 24 months — or the 20 newest reviews when the company had fewer than 20 in that time.
Google reviewers rate Hickman KinderCare 4.8 out of 5 based on 46 reviews, with the owner responding to 83% of them. Parents frequently praise the staff’s communication, early morning hours, and developmental curriculum that includes activities like phonics and cooking. While many note the center prepares children for kindergarten, low-star reviews highlight concerns about declining care quality and instances where confirmed enrollment spots were unexpectedly revoked.
Google rating: 4.8 out of 5 from 46 reviews (93% five-star).
Reviews on this page: 46 Google reviews (41 with written comments).
Owner responses: the business replied to 83% of reviews.
Most recent review: October 27, 2026.
Service: After School Care serving Grimes, Iowa.
Data from Google, last updated November 6, 2026.
Score profile vs other after school care
Score per factor (100 = best)iEach factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (star average, share of 1–2★ reviews, price verdicts…); standing within the category can only raise it, never lower it.. Strongest: craft & service and replies to reviews; weakest: value.
Hickman KinderCareAfter School Care median0 = centre, 100 = best
SatisfactioniSatisfaction · 54% of the scoreRecency-weighted star average (2-year half-life), shrunk toward the category mean by review volume; the company’s own lifetime average as the prior; absolute: 4.0★ = 0, 5★ = 100.Hickman KinderCare: 77/100 on this factor. Category median: 77.B
77
ReliabilityiReliability · 24% of the scoreHow rarely jobs go badly: share of 1–2★ reviews — 60% the last 24 months (or the 20 newest if fewer), 40% all-time; 0% = 100, 15%+ = 0; the category percentile can only raise it.Hickman KinderCare: 69/100 on this factor. Category median: 69.B
69
Craft & serviceiCraft & service · penalty only, up to −10 pointsGoogle review highlights: Quality, Professionalism, Responsiveness, Punctuality — how rarely reviewers flag them as a negative, per review since highlights began; 0% = 100, 5%+ = 0. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in — clean highlights are the norm, not a bonus.Hickman KinderCare: 95/100 on this factor. Category median: 89.A
95
ValueiValue · 14% of the scoreCustomers’ own price verdicts (Great / Reasonable vs Overpriced) and Value highlights; 65% absolute (all “reasonable” ≈ 80, “great” = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Hickman KinderCare: 44/100 on this factor. Category median: 83.C
44
MomentumiMomentum · penalty only, up to −10 pointsPenalises only a real slide: last-12-month average below lifetime (−0.5★ = 0). Still 4.8★+ over the last year, or steady/improving = 100. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in.Hickman KinderCare: 80/100 on this factor. Category median: 100.A
80
Replies to reviewsiReplies to reviews · 7% of the scoreHow often the owner publicly replies to reviews under 5★ (1–4★). Needs 3+ such reviews, otherwise not counted; 65% absolute (80%+ replied = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Hickman KinderCare: 95/100 on this factor. Category median: 75.A
95
Bar = this company · dark tick = category median.
Star ratings
46 Google reviews we collected
4.8of 5
5 stars4393%
4 stars00%
3 stars12%
2 stars12%
1 star12%
Praise vs complaints
Phrases our text analysis found in 41 written reviews
98%praise
Praise4098%
Complaints12%
PriceiGoogle asks reviewers whether the price was great, reasonable or overpriced; these are their answers.
Price verdicts customers left with their Google review
67%fair
Great price00%
Reasonable267%
Overpriced133%
Not sure00%
Topic share
How often each topic comes up in the written reviews
6topics
Staff & attitude1127%
Communication922%
Quality & results820%
Would recommend717%
Honesty & trust410%
Speed & response25%
What customers talk about
We read 41 written reviews and marked every phrase about these topics. The same colors are highlighted in the reviews.
“They have been so loving, patient, welcoming, and understanding, not just with my boys, but with me as a mom, too.”
“From the communication to the fun activities my kids get to participate in it’s amazing and I’m grateful to have them apart of my kids childhood.”
“…the KinderCare app, the responsiveness of the director and staff, the attention to detail, the care and responsibility of food allergies, everything i…”
“I would recommend this daycare to any parent looking for a place where their children can learn, grow, and feel at home.”
“I was honestly SO nervous about putting my babies into a daycare center.”
“Very professional and handles any questions or concerns quickly.”
praise complaint · found by our text analysis, Google review wording unchanged.
Recent reviews
DDestiny2 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a week ago★★★★★
My daughters have been going to KinderCare for years and I can’t say enough positive things about every teacher and director there. From the communication to the fun activities my kids get to participate in it’s amazing and I’m grateful to have them apart of my kids childhood. Now my 3 month old is attending and his…
HHaley8 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 7 months ago★★★
Unfortunately the care has dropped drastically in the last month there and I'm moving my son to another Kindercare because of it.
OverpricedPainting
KKim4 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 9 months ago★★★★★
Great experience with transitional Kindergarten! Teachers are supportive and caring.
TTriple13 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a year ago★★★★★
You guys are the best in town. Helpful, caring, accommodating, respectful you name it. I am so blessed to have found you guys. Best child care center ever!
Reasonable priceService not listed
AAspen3 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a year ago★★★★★
The staff have been amazing. We appreciate the care and communication with the teachers and the administrators. Their hours are great for parents that work earlier in the morning. Our kids have really thrived with the curriculum. We also enjoy they offer extra activities like cooking classes, phonics, music classes, dance and others.
HHeather4 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · Edited a year ago★★★★★
Our twins have loved Kindercare since they started going there at nine weeks old. They love the teachers and staff. We are impressed how much they have learned. They are going to miss Kindercare Hickman once they start Kindergarten this fall. Kindercare has prepared them for the next step.
My daughters have been going to KinderCare for years and I can’t say enough positive things about every teacher and director there. From the communication to the fun activities my kids get to participate in it’s amazing and I’m grateful to have them apart of my kids childhood. Now my 3 month old is attending and his teacher is so informative and I don’t have to worry about a thing . Thank you Paige and thank you KinderCare family ❤️
Hi, Destiny!
Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We are thrilled to hear that you have had such positive experiences with our teachers and directors over the years. It's heartwarming to know that the communication and activities have made a meaningful impact on your children's childhood. We're also delighted to hear that your 3-month-old is in good hands and that you feel informed and at ease. Families like yours are why we do what we do, and we could not imagine KinderCare without you. Thank you for being a part of our family; we are so happy you're here!
Warm Regards, Hickman KinderCare
F
Faith Cordero5 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Faith has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
We absolutely LOVE this daycare! I cannot say enough wonderful things about the center, the staff, and especially Miss Aya, Miss Yursa, Miss Caitlyn, truly ALL of the amazing teachers. My son absolutely ADORES Miss Aya, and seeing how excited he gets about his teachers makes my heart so happy. 💜
I was honestly SO nervous about putting my babies into a daycare center. I had been a stay-at-home mom since they were born, and my boys are only 2 and 3. The thought of being away from them, not knowing how they would adjust, or how they would do without me was incredibly nerve-wracking. But the teachers have made this transition so much easier than I ever imagined. They have been so loving, patient, welcoming, and understanding, not just with my boys, but with me as a mom, too. That means more to me than they will ever know.
As a parent, there is nothing more comforting than knowing your children are safe, loved, supported, and genuinely cared for when you can’t be with them. The teachers go above and beyond to make the kids feel special, encourage their growth, and make learning fun. The communication and app updates are also such a blessing and give us so much peace of mind.
We are so grateful for every teacher who plays a part in our children’s lives. It takes a special kind of person to care for little ones, and this team truly shines. I would recommend this daycare to any parent looking for a place where their children can learn, grow, and feel at home. We appreciate you all more than you know! 💜
Hi, Faith!
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a heartfelt review. We are thrilled to hear that you and your family absolutely love our daycare and that our team, especially Miss Aya, Miss Yursa, and Miss Caitlyn, have made such a positive impact on your son's experience. It's wonderful to know that your son adores his teachers and that they have helped ease your transition from being a stay-at-home mom. We understand how important it is for parents to feel confident and at ease when entrusting their children to our care, and we are delighted that our teachers have provided the love, patience, and support you and your boys deserve. Your kind words about our communication and app updates are greatly appreciated, as we strive to keep parents informed and at peace. Families like yours are why we do what we do, and we could not imagine KinderCare without you. Thank you for being a part of our family; we are so happy you're here!
Warm Regards,
Hickman KinderCare
H
Haley Moore8 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Haley has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Unfortunately the care has dropped drastically in the last month there and I'm moving my son to another Kindercare because of it.
Price assessment: Overpriced
Services: Painting
Response from the owner · 7 months ago
Hi, Haley, Thank you for taking the time to leave a review for KinderCare. We are sorry to hear about your experience. We apologize for the decline in care you have noticed over the last month, and we appreciate you bringing this to our attention. We have shared your concerns with local management, and we would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you directly. If you are open to further conversation, please call us at 888-525-2780, 6am-5pm PST, M-F. Thank you again for taking the time to share your feedback. Warm regards, Hickman KinderCare
K
Kim Hogan4 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Kim has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Great experience with transitional Kindergarten! Teachers are supportive and caring.
Response from the owner · 9 months ago
Hi Kim!
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're happy to hear that you have had such a positive experience with us! It's fantastic to know that our transitional Kindergarten program and our supportive, caring teachers have made a difference for you. Families like yours are why we do what we do, and we could not imagine KinderCare without you. Thank you for being a part of our family; we are so happy you're here!
Warm Regards, Hickman KinderCare
T
Triple Threats13 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Triple has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
You guys are the best in town. Helpful, caring, accommodating, respectful you name it. I am so blessed to have found you guys. Best child care center ever!
Price assessment: Reasonable price
Services: Service not listed
Response from the owner · a year ago
Hi Blessing,
Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience with us. We're happy to hear that you have had such a positive experience with us! Families like yours are why we do what we do, and we could not imagine KinderCare without you. Thank you for being a part of our family; we are so happy you're here!
Warm Regards, Hickman KinderCare
A
Aspen Jennings3 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Aspen has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
The staff have been amazing. We appreciate the care and communication with the teachers and the administrators. Their hours are great for parents that work earlier in the morning. Our kids have really thrived with the curriculum. We also enjoy they offer extra activities like cooking classes, phonics, music classes, dance and others.
Response from the owner · a year ago
Hi Aspen!
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're happy to hear that you have had such a positive experience with us! It's fantastic to know that our staff, care, and communication have met your expectations and that our hours are convenient for your family. We're thrilled to hear that your kids are thriving with our curriculum and enjoying the extra activities we offer. Families like yours are why we do what we do, and we could not imagine KinderCare without you. Thank you for being a part of our family; we are so happy you're here!
Warm Regards,
Hickman KinderCare
H
Heather Schall4 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Heather has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Our twins have loved Kindercare since they started going there at nine weeks old. They love the teachers and staff. We are impressed how much they have learned. They are going to miss Kindercare Hickman once they start Kindergarten this fall. Kindercare has prepared them for the next step.
Response from the owner · 5 years ago
Hi, Heather!
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review for KinderCare! We are happy to hear that you have had such a positive experience with us. We’re thrilled you’ve chosen Hickman KinderCare as your partner in childcare and education! We love that you have peace of mind at work knowing your twins are in good hands in a place they love going to each day. It’s great to hear your twins love April and Rachel, too! Families like yours are why we do what we do, and we could not imagine KinderCare without you. Thank you for being part of our KinderCare Family; we're so happy you're here!
Warm regards,
Lindley, Family Support
S
Sandeep SinghLocal Guide · 25 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Sandeep has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
We had a great experience with Kindercare hickman. Very friendly staff and attentive teachers.
Response from the owner · a year ago
Hi Sandeep,
Thank you so much for your kind words and for sharing your experience with us. We're happy to hear that you have had such a positive experience with us! Our team at Hickman KinderCare takes great pride in providing a friendly and attentive environment for all our families. Families like yours are why we do what we do, and we could not imagine KinderCare without you. Thank you for being a part of our family; we are so happy you're here!
Warm Regards, Hickman KinderCare
M
M A M13 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews M has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
My kids have been going here for a year now and they absolutely love it!
Response from the owner · a year ago
Hi, Mal!
Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us! We're happy to hear that you have had such a positive experience with us! It's heartwarming to know that your kids love attending Hickman KinderCare. Families like yours are why we do what we do, and we could not imagine KinderCare without you. Thank you for being a part of our family; we are so happy you're here!
Warm Regards,
Hickman KinderCare
A
Audrianna Williams2 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Audrianna has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Hi Audrianna,
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're happy to hear that you have had such a positive experience with us! Our teachers and faculty strive to create a nurturing and supportive environment for all our families. Families like yours are why we do what we do, and we could not imagine KinderCare without you. Thank you for being a part of our family; we are so happy you're here!
Warm Regards, Hickman KinderCare
