The Best Preschools in Arapahoe, CO
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Arapahoe. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Primrose School of Centennial
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Centennial is a nationally accredited early education center located just minutes from Arapahoe. They follow the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The school features a secure entry system, age-appropriate learning environments, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes character development and literacy programs. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, safety protocols, and the developmental progress children make.
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The Goddard School of Centennial
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Centennial offers a premier early childhood education program serving families in the Arapahoe area. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on play-based learning while developing academic and social-emotional skills. The facility features modern classrooms, secure access systems, and outdoor play areas. The school employs degreed teachers and maintains low student-teacher ratios. Parents highlight the school's engaging curriculum, clean facilities, and professional staff.
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Kiddie Academy of Centennial
Kiddie Academy Domestic Franchising
Kiddie Academy of Centennial provides educational child care for children from infancy through school age, serving the Arapahoe community. Their Life Essentials® curriculum emphasizes character education, technology integration, and hands-on learning experiences. The academy features secure facilities with coded entry systems, age-appropriate learning materials, and structured daily schedules that balance learning and play. The center is noted for its strong communication with parents, experienced teaching staff, and comprehensive safety protocols that give parents peace of mind.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Arapahoe, CO:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Arapahoe, Colorado?
In Arapahoe and the surrounding Denver metro area, preschool tuition can range from approximately $800 to $1,500+ per month, depending on the program's schedule, philosophy, and amenities. Colorado offers the Universal Preschool (UPK) Colorado program, which provides 15 hours per week of free, high-quality preschool to all children in the year before they are eligible for kindergarten, significantly reducing costs for eligible families at participating providers.
How can I assess the quality and licensing of a preschool in Arapahoe?
First, verify the preschool is licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC), which sets health, safety, and staff qualification standards. You can also look for programs with a Colorado Shines rating, the state's quality rating and improvement system; a Level 3 or higher indicates a commitment to exceeding basic standards. Always schedule an in-person tour to observe the environment and ask about teacher qualifications and curriculum.
What are the enrollment timelines and processes for Arapahoe preschools?
Many high-quality preschools in the Arapahoe area begin their enrollment processes in January or February for the following fall semester, with some having waitlists. For programs participating in UPK Colorado, you must apply through the state's online portal during the open enrollment period (typically early in the year). It's advisable to research and contact preschools 6-12 months in advance to understand their specific deadlines and requirements.
Are there specific preschool programs or philosophies commonly found in Arapahoe?
Yes, Arapahoe and the broader South Denver suburbs offer a diverse mix of preschool approaches. You can find traditional academic-prep programs, play-based schools, Montessori, Reggio Emilia-inspired, faith-based, and nature-focused outdoor preschools. Consider visiting a few different types to see which learning environment best matches your child's temperament and your family's educational values.
What local factors, like transportation or safety, should I consider for an Arapahoe preschool?
Given Arapahoe's suburban layout, most families provide their own transportation, as few preschools offer bus services. When evaluating safety, inquire about secure building access, staff background checks, emergency procedures, and outdoor play area security. Also, consider commute times during drop-off and pick-up, as traffic on corridors like County Line Road or I-25 can be heavy, impacting your daily schedule.
Nearby Cities
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