INSIGHTS AND MUSINGS FROM OUR COMMUNITY
Sarah L.
We knew there was something special about Ari and Sofia before our daughter was ever in their classroom. Their synergy was evident from afar, and we looked forward to the day when our daughter was old enough to be in their care. She has been with Ari and Sofia for over 18 months now, and she is growing into this beautifully confident and joyful human being. She loves Rifugio, and we are thrilled to see how she chooses to embrace life every day. We are so grateful for Ari and Sofia! Their love, joy, encouragement and emotional support are like no other . . . . truly instrumental and inspiring at such an influential time in a child’s life. Rifugio Austin is building a strong foundation for our daughter that will continue to open up a world of possibilities for the rest of her life.
Dimple S.
I cannot say enough great things about Rifugio, Ari and Sofia!! My son has been there since June and he absolutely loves it. I know this because every night we talk about our pit and peak of the day and everyday it’s the same thing “my peak was going to school (Rifugio!) and my pit was coming home” 🙂 I love how they sneak education in throughout the day without the kids noticing (i.e writing practice and learning math with measurements during cooking lessons) and how they encourage creativity with their art projects and singing karaoke on their outdoor stage. The kids are having a blast while Sofia and Ari provide encouragement, enrichment, positivity and love throughout the day. This place is truly a gem!
William M.
We cannot sing the praises of Ari and Sofia and the environment they have set up enough. Our six-year-old blossomed in the time that he spent at Rifugio. We were particularly impressed with his social and emotional development and found the entire experience to have an extremely positive influence on him and our family. The founders are sincerely invested in not just teaching but nurturing every child on their own terms and what best suits the needs of the individual. In a perfect world, every child would have the opportunity to benefit from Rifugio. a world of possibilities for the rest of her life.
Angela W.
Rifugio is really a magical place! We spent part of the school year and the summer with Ari and Sofia. They really foster a sense of curiosity, creativity, and joy in learning. Our child thrived with the hands-on curriculum — learning to cook, exploring rocks, doing fun Olympics exercises, and making things with scrap materials. Ari and Sofia are so knowledgeable about childhood development and invested in nurturing growth based on where the children are at. Through his time at Rifugio, my child developed a greater respect for himself and his community of learning. I can’t recommend Rifugio enough!
Jen T.
Our two boys had the best time at Rifugio Austin this past summer! Ari and Sofia are amazing, and they have created an amazing space both indoors and outdoors at their location. They are engaging, innovative and nurturing. We could not have asked for a better curriculum and environment for our boys to thrive in!
Ale P.
My daughter LOVES Miss Ari and Miss Sofia. They guide their students with love and compassion while teaching them self confidence, empathy and courage.
Emily S.
The best! Dynamic duo! Such commitment to their craft and to their students. So grateful for their guidance, community, support, and love. They meet their students where they are and foster curiosity, respect, and strong sense of self. Such a gift!
Victoria H.
Dream team. Our daughter has been learning (and loving) these two for years. Highly recommended. Exceeds expectations every time!