The Best Preschools in Eielson AFB, AK
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Eielson AFB. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Eielson AFB Child Development Center
United States Air Force Services
The Eielson AFB Child Development Center is a highly-regarded on-base facility providing comprehensive early childhood education and care for military families. It features a developmentally appropriate curriculum focused on social, emotional, and cognitive growth, with trained and certified staff. The center maintains high safety standards, including secure access and health protocols, and emphasizes parent involvement and community support. It is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), ensuring quality educational experiences.
Programs Offered:
Kindercare Learning Center - Fairbanks
KinderCare Learning Companies LLC
Kindercare Learning Center in Fairbanks is a nationally accredited facility known for its balanced educational approach, blending play-based learning with structured academics. It serves families from Eielson AFB and the surrounding area, offering a safe environment with low child-to-teacher ratios. The curriculum supports literacy, math, and social skills development, and the center has a strong record of parent satisfaction, with highlights on teacher qualifications and engaging activities.
Programs Offered:
The Goddard School of Fairbanks
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Fairbanks offers a play-based learning environment with its F.L.EX.® Learning Program, emphasizing creativity, critical thinking, and STEAM activities. It caters to families in the Eielson AFB area with a focus on individualized development and safety. The school boasts highly qualified teachers, modern facilities, and a curriculum aligned with early learning standards, resulting in high parent ratings for educational quality and child engagement.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Eielson AFB, AK:
What are the main preschool options available to families stationed at Eielson AFB?
The primary on-base option is the Child Development Center (CDC), which offers full-day, part-day, and hourly care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Off-base, families can explore local licensed home daycares or centers in nearby North Pole or Fairbanks, though availability is limited and commute times in Alaska winters are a significant factor. The Air Force Aid Society may also offer need-based scholarships for childcare.
How does the waitlist process work for the Eielson AFB Child Development Center, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for the CDC are managed through the MilitaryChildCare.com website, and spots are prioritized by military mission, family income, and date of application. It is critical to register on the site as soon as you have orders to Eielson, as wait times can be several months. For increased chances, request to be placed on lists for all available programs (full-day, part-day, hourly) and consider backup options in the local community.
Are there unique considerations for preschool safety and preparedness in Eielson's Alaskan environment?
Yes, safety protocols for extreme cold, limited daylight in winter, and potential wildlife are essential. A quality preschool will have strict policies for outdoor play in sub-zero temperatures, secure facilities, and emergency preparedness kits for events like earthquakes or extended power outages. Inquire about their procedures for ensuring children are properly dressed for the weather and their plans for indoor activities during prolonged cold snaps.
What is the typical cost of preschool at Eielson AFB and in the surrounding area?
On-base, the CDC uses a sliding fee scale based on your family's total income, making costs predictable and often more affordable than off-base options. Off-base preschools in the Fairbanks North Star Borough can be significantly more expensive due to higher operational costs in Alaska. Always budget for additional expenses like extreme-weather gear and higher costs for supplies and enrichment activities in a remote location.
What should I look for in a preschool curriculum that supports children in a remote, transient military community like Eielson?
Seek programs that emphasize social-emotional learning and resilience to help children cope with frequent moves and parental deployments. A curriculum incorporating Alaska's unique environment (like nature-based learning) can be a great asset. Also, look for teachers experienced with military families who understand the challenges of transitions and can help foster a stable, welcoming classroom community.
Nearby Cities
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