Ms. Clara’s Joyful Learning Center

We held our 4yo daughter’s birthday party at this center last weekend. Ms. Clara was amazing! She was incredibly kind and has a beautiful voice. She instructed a group of children ranging from 4yo to 11yo in a series of musical lessons that kept them engaged and happy, while all the parents watched (a challenge in itself). We also had a «Princess» visit the children at the party and they were unbelievably excited about this… overall the party was a huge success! If our schedule permitted it, we would sign up for music classes for the kids because Ms. Clara clearly has something special with this learning center.

We celebrated my daughter’s second birthday party at the Joyful Learning Center. (This review is much over due, as our party was actually in the Winter.) We had taken a music class from Miss Clara many years ago, but this was our first experience at her official location. Finding an indoor location for a private party to celebrate and have activities can be tough, but this place worked very well for us.
This place was perfect for many reasons:
1. Miss Clara did a great job explaining the process and procedures ahead of time. I knew what to expect, what could be done and had all my questions answered ahead of time. I was being given the use of the entire facility and could do what I planned. I really appreciated being able to plan my own party and do my own thing. I’ve gotten stuck paying extra for a party planner/​assistant at other places and the person ends up doing nothing for me, however, that option might not be a bad one to offer as an additional add-​on in the future to someone who feels like a little extra help may be needed.
2. The centralized location was a great meeting spot for family and friends from different towns. Folks from all directions could reach Brookfield by Highway and then follow the main drag to the «circle». Parking directly outside the facility was a bit busy, but still easily attainable during our party time. I appreciated being given the advanced setup time and arrived early to do so. Because of this, I got a spot directly across the front door, which made bringing my items in easy.
3. The facility size and layout was perfect for our party. There is a front entrance with big windows for sunlight, then, you proceed down the hall to the party room and finally, there is a kitchen and kid friendly bathroom in the back. I liked how the party room was hidden from the entrance — we put balloons in the front entryway so guests knew this was the right place, but passersby weren’t able to stop and stare at our celebration. We were able to arrange the party room however we wanted — we opted for a few stations to keep kids busy while others arrived. The kid friendly tables and chairs made the party a huge success when it came time for snacks, cake and drinks. The kitchen made it convenient for us to prepare and setup food and we really appreciated being able to bring in whatever we wanted. I forgot a knife for the cake, but was able to use one from the minimal supplies in the kitchen. (whew!) Many of our friends were just beginning to use the potty and so the little seat and stepstool made this a very kid friendly touch. For those not quite ready, the diaper station was convenient too.
4. Not only did we rent the space, but we requested Miss Clara sing with the kids. We were very happy she was able to specifically fulfill this request as I love her positive, friendly and perky manner, although I’m sure any of their staff would have been just as good. This was the bulk of the party and my previous experience with Miss Clara allowed me to know what to expect. The interactive songs were a blast! Even the wiggliest of kids continued to stay focused and entertained. From catching snowflakes, skating across the floor and banging the drum — everyone got involved. Children from ages 1 to 8 were in attendance and they all loved it. Miss Clara did a great job remembering names and used songs and objects that entertained all ages. Some parents joined in alongside their children, while others sat back and «enjoyed the show». Miss Clara even remembered to sing my daugher’s favorite song at the end. (I told her it was her favorite when we first met and appreciated this gesture, as I did not make any special requests to have this song sang.) My only regret is that we didn’t arrange for the cake to be brought out after the singing activity. I would have loved for Miss Clara to lead us in singing Happy Birthday! (I have a terrible singing voice.)
5. Even though this was my party and I was responsible for everything, cleanup was a breeze. We were given cleanup time and instructions. I was worried about this at first because the instructions were so detailed, but since we were given the additional time, this really wasn’t a big stress. The items on the checklist really were easy. Throw away your garbage, put things back where they were and turn out the lights. Asking for a deposit up front is a fair thing to do and Miss Clara promptly returned this when our agreement had been met which is very much appreciated since I always spend more on my parties than I plan to.
Overall, I thought this was the perfect party idea and location for a little one’s birthday. We’ve had 7 birthday parties before and this one was one of the best. I would recommend it to anyone looking for something private, safe and unique. I don’t think this needs to be just for little ones though. I am already considering this location for a Summer birthday celebration for my seven year old as well.