The Best Preschools in Old Station, CA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Old Station. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Burney Head Start Preschool
Shasta County Office of Education
Burney Head Start Preschool is a federally funded program operated by the Shasta County Office of Education, providing comprehensive early learning services to children from low-income families in the Old Station area. It emphasizes school readiness through a play-based curriculum, along with health, nutrition, and family support services. The program is known for its highly qualified teachers, small class sizes, and strong community involvement, with a focus on holistic child development and parent education.
Programs Offered:
KinderCare Learning Center at Hilltop
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center at Hilltop is a nationally accredited facility offering a structured, play-based curriculum that fosters social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Serving families in Old Station and the greater Redding area, it features experienced educators, safe environments, and programs aligned with early learning standards. Parents praise its engaging activities, communication, and focus on kindergarten readiness, making it a trusted choice for early childhood education.
Programs Offered:
Shasta Family YMCA Child Development Center
YMCA of the USA
The Shasta Family YMCA Child Development Center provides a nurturing, community-focused early learning environment with an emphasis on whole child development through play, literacy, and social skills activities. It serves Old Station and surrounding areas with licensed teachers, low child-to-staff ratios, and a curriculum that promotes creativity and independence. Highly rated for its safety, inclusive atmosphere, and strong parent partnerships, it has been a staple in Shasta County for decades.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Old Station, CA:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Old Station, CA, and are there any local financial assistance options?
In the Old Station area, preschool costs can vary significantly, but many home-based or smaller programs may range from $300 to $600 per month for part-time schedules. Due to its rural location, dedicated financial assistance programs within the town itself are limited; however, families should apply for the California State Preschool Program (CSPP) or explore subsidies through Shasta County Office of Education, which may have options for eligible families in the region.
How do I evaluate the quality and licensing of a preschool in such a small, rural community like Old Station?
Always verify a preschool's license status through the California Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing Division online database. In a small community, word-of-mouth and personal visits are invaluable; ask about the provider's experience with mixed-age groups, which are common in rural settings, and observe how they utilize the natural outdoor environment, a key asset in this area.
Given Old Station's remote location, what should I look for regarding safety and emergency preparedness at a preschool?
Prioritize preschools with clear protocols for wildfires and medical emergencies, given the area's high fire risk and distance from major hospitals. Ask specifically about their evacuation plans, communication systems for parents during emergencies, and staff training in first aid and CPR. A reliable transportation plan for field trips or emergencies is also a critical consideration.
What types of preschool programs are available in Old Station, and how do they incorporate the local environment?
Options are typically limited to licensed family child care homes or small, private preschool groups. The most successful programs often have a strong nature-based component, integrating the surrounding Lassen National Forest and Hat Creek area into daily learning through outdoor exploration, wildlife education, and hands-on science activities that leverage the unique local geography.
When should I start the enrollment process for a preschool in Old Station, and what is typically required?
Due to very limited capacity, you should begin inquiring and visiting programs at least 6-12 months before your desired start date. Required documents usually include proof of immunizations (per California law), a recent physical exam, and emergency contact forms. Be prepared for a waitlist, and consider expanding your search to nearby communities like Burney or Shingletown if necessary.
Nearby Cities
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