Preschool is more than just crafts, nursery rhymes and snack time — it’s the foundation of your child’s educational journey. It’s where they’ll learn to spell their name, hold a pencil, follow instructions, make friends and navigate the world of learning.
Parents have more preschool options than ever, and the process of choosing the right school can feel overwhelming. Between the different types of teaching styles, cost and how preschool will fit into your family’s schedule, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Understanding the different types of preschool programs is a great place to start, as each offers a unique approach to learning.
Early Childhood Learning Centers
One of the biggest advantages of a daycare or early childhood learning center is the continuity of care. Rather than switching between caregivers or environments, children remain in the same setting with the same teachers and staff, and many of the same families from infancy until they go to kindergarten. Children can start as early as 6 weeks old and transition through classrooms as they grow.
“The functionality of childcare has changed vastly in the past few decades, as the importance of early learning has been well studied and is now a primary focus in the fields of education, child development and behavioral health,” explains Ally Pleveich, assistant director at The Goddard School in Macedonia, who adds that at Goddard School, “preschool classrooms in particular are focused not only on learning through play, but also on developing academic skills such as early writing skills and word recognition.”
In addition to academic enrichment, early childhood learning centers offer full care services including feedings, naps, diaper changes, flexible hours for working parents and care for siblings.
Private/Independent Preschools
Private schools offer unique benefits by providing specialized curriculums, enrichment programs and smaller class sizes. Private and independent schools can vary widely in structure and curriculum design, from religious-based (such as Christian, Catholic and Jewish day schools) to those centered on educational philosophies like Montessori or Waldorf, which emphasize hands-on learning, independence and creativity from a young age.
Private schools foster a close-knit community experience for students as well as parents, promoting a strong sense of belonging. These schools typically have a formal admissions process and deadlines are early. Families should begin planning about a year in advance.
Public School District Preschools
Some public school districts may offer free or low-cost preschool programs for students who live in the school district. These programs generally focus on kindergarten readiness and follow a traditional school-year calendar. Spots may be limited and filled through a lottery system, based on financial need or developmental assessments.
Other Organizations
Community centers, science and nature centers or music and performing arts centers may offer preschool-age programs or “parent and me” classes for little ones who are just beginning to explore group settings. These may be short classes or seasonal programs that offer children the opportunity to explore fingerplay, dance, movement and simple instruction in a nurturing environment.
When it comes to selecting the best preschool, here are a few key tips to help guide your decision:
Take a Tour: Observe how teachers interact with students, ask for a copy of their daily schedule and get a feel for the overall atmosphere.
Ask About the Teaching Philosophy: Consider how that aligns with your child’s learning style and personality.
Consider Practical Details: Look at location, cost, hours of care and how well it fits into your family’s lifestyle.
Talk to Other Parents: Reviews and personal experiences can be helpful in narrowing down your options. Ask questions about communication, safety and what their child has gained from the program.
Sometimes, it comes down to a feeling: The right preschool should feel like a place where your child will be supported, challenged and excited to learn.
