Waterford Early Learning

Waterford offers two distinct but related early learning programs: Waterford Early Learning (WEL) for school implementation and Waterford Upstart for home-based preschool preparation. Both programs utilize the same research-based, adaptive curriculum while serving different educational contexts. Here's what parents and educators have to say about their experiences:

Waterford Early Learning (School-Based Program)

Parents whose children use the Waterford Early Learning program at school consistently highlight its effectiveness in building fundamental literacy skills:

"I was particularly impressed with Waterford's selection of literature. The stories are multicultural and engaging—I may have enjoyed them even more than my son." Homeschooling parent reviewer

The program's adaptive nature earns praise for meeting children where they are developmentally:

"The program provides review for skills not mastered while allowing advancement for those who are ready, which helps each child succeed at their own pace." School implementation report

Parents of children with learning differences note that the program can accommodate various needs:

"The phonological exercises were especially helpful for my child who has auditory processing issues." Parent reviewer

However, some concerns about the screen-based approach are also mentioned:

"So much of early learning comes from children interacting with peers, teachers, and physical materials, and that sort of learning can't be replicated by interacting with a computer program." Early childhood education expert

A few parents have noted that the multimedia approach occasionally creates challenges:

"One rhyming game had too much visual stimulation, which actually distracted my son from listening to the sounds." Homeschool mother

Waterford Upstart (Home-Based Preschool Program)

Parents using Waterford Upstart frequently express amazement at their children's reading progress:

"While trying to be sneaky, I spelled out a word in conversation. It shocked me when she sounded it out and then shouted what I had spelled. That's the moment when I knew, UPSTART works!!" Ohio pilot program parent

"There is nothing more amazing than watching your barely 5-year-old READ words." Upstart parent

The program's engaging content keeps young children interested:

"Each lesson was animated, so it made it funny and interesting and kept his attention on it." Toni Butler, single mother using Upstart in Indiana

For families with limited preschool options, Upstart provides a crucial alternative:

"This program was extremely beneficial! I know I could not have taught him everything the program taught him in the last year." Parent of child with epilepsy condition

Parents also value the program's practicality:

"It really was a lifesaver." Parent during COVID-19 school closures

However, concerns about socialization and screen time persist:

"So much of pre-K is about the social-emotional learning that happens via student interaction with peers and well-trained educators, and that sort of learning can't be replicated by interacting with a computer program." Education analyst

Who Benefits Most From Waterford Programs?

Based on parent feedback, Waterford's programs appear particularly valuable for:

• Children with limited access to quality preschool or early education programs
• Families in rural areas or areas with preschool shortages
• Children who need extra literacy support or academic reinforcement
• Learners who thrive with personalized, adaptive instruction
• Students who respond well to multimedia and interactive learning
• Families who can commit to consistent daily usage (especially for Upstart)

The programs may be less ideal for:

• Children who need significant hands-on, tactile learning experiences
• Families seeking primarily social-emotional development
• Students who are easily distracted by or sensitive to screen stimulation
• Children who strongly resist structured learning activities
• Families unable to commit to the daily recommended usage time

Implementation Tips From Experienced Parents

Parents who have successfully used Waterford programs share these practical suggestions:

• Establish a consistent daily routine for program usage
• Balance screen time with plenty of hands-on play and social interaction
• Stay nearby during early sessions to provide support and encouragement
• Discuss what the child is learning and reinforce concepts throughout the day
• For Upstart users, maintain regular communication with your assigned coach
• Consider pairing Waterford with other activities that develop social-emotional skills

The Bottom Line

Parent feedback on Waterford programs is overwhelmingly positive regarding academic outcomes, particularly in early literacy. The vast majority of Upstart parents (97-100% in some surveys) report that the program benefited their child and that they would recommend it to others.

While some educators and parents express valid concerns about screen time and social development, most families view these as limitations to be managed rather than reasons to avoid the programs entirely. For many, Waterford serves as a valuable tool in a balanced approach to early education.

The consensus among parents suggests that Waterford provides high-quality academic instruction that can help close the kindergarten readiness gap, especially for children with limited access to traditional preschool options. The key to success appears to be thoughtful implementation—using the programs consistently while ensuring children also receive ample opportunities for physical play, creative expression, and social interaction.