The Best Preschools in Florence, CO
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Florence. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
KinderCare Learning Center - Canon City
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center in Canon City is a highly-rated early childhood education facility serving the Florence area with a robust curriculum focused on literacy, math, and social-emotional development. It maintains strong safety protocols, including secured entrances and trained staff, and emphasizes teacher qualifications with ongoing professional development. Parent reviews frequently highlight the nurturing environment, engaging activities, and consistent communication, contributing to its high satisfaction ratings. The center is licensed by the state of Colorado and has been operating for over 15 years, providing reliable care and education for children from infancy through preschool.
Programs Offered:
The Goddard School of Pueblo
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Pueblo offers a premier early learning experience with a play-based curriculum that fosters cognitive, physical, and social growth. It is known for its high educational standards, low student-to-teacher ratios, and safe, clean facilities equipped with modern resources. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education, and the school emphasizes parent involvement through regular updates and events. With over a decade of operation, it has built a strong reputation in southern Colorado, serving families from Florence and surrounding areas with consistently high parent satisfaction and accreditation from recognized early childhood organizations.
Programs Offered:
Bright Horizons at St. Francis Medical Center
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at St. Francis Medical Center in Colorado Springs provides a top-tier early education program with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) and literacy. The center prioritizes safety with strict health protocols and background-checked staff, and it boasts high teacher qualifications, including CPR and first aid certifications. Parents praise its structured yet flexible approach, supportive environment, and strong community ties, making it a trusted option for families in Florence seeking quality care. Established over 15 years ago, it maintains excellent ratings and is part of a nationally recognized network with a focus on developmental milestones and school readiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Florence, CO:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Florence, CO, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Florence, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. For financial assistance, Colorado's Universal Preschool (UPK) program offers 15 hours per week of free preschool to all 4-year-olds and many 3-year-olds, which can be applied at participating providers. Additionally, the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) is available for qualifying families through the Fremont County Department of Human Services.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Florence?
All licensed preschools in Colorado are regulated by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC). You can search for a specific provider's licensing history, including any violations, on the CDEC website. For quality indicators, look for programs participating in Colorado's quality rating system, Colorado Shines, which evaluates factors like staff qualifications and learning environments.
What types of preschool programs are available in Florence, given its smaller community size?
Florence offers a mix of options including part-day programs at local churches, full-day childcare centers with preschool curricula, and the public Florence-Penrose School District's preschool program. Given the rural setting, some families also consider in-home licensed preschools or cooperative models. It's important to visit and compare, as choices may be more limited than in larger Front Range cities.
What is the enrollment timeline and process for preschools in Florence, especially for the public school program?
Enrollment for the Colorado Universal Preschool (UPK) program opens in January for the following fall, and you apply through the state's online portal. For other private preschools in Florence, it's advisable to contact them directly in the winter or early spring, as spots can fill quickly. The Florence-Penrose School District typically holds enrollment events in the spring; checking their website in February is a good strategy.
Are there specific considerations for preschool safety and preparedness in Florence, such as for severe weather?
Yes, given Florence's location, it's wise to ask preschools about their emergency plans for severe weather, including tornadoes and wildfires. Reputable programs will have clear evacuation and shelter-in-place protocols. Additionally, inquire about outdoor play safety, as some facilities may be near open spaces or have different sun exposure considerations than urban areas.
Nearby Cities
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