The Best Preschools in Hereford, CO
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Hereford. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Primrose School of Fort Collins
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Fort Collins is a highly-rated early learning center known for its Balanced Learning® approach, blending academic readiness with character development. The school emphasizes safety with secure facilities and trained staff, and offers a research-based curriculum that includes literacy, math, science, and arts. Parents report high satisfaction with teacher qualifications and the nurturing environment, making it a trusted choice for families in the region.
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The Goddard School of Fort Collins
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Fort Collins provides a play-based learning environment with a focus on STEM activities, social-emotional development, and school readiness. It boasts low student-teacher ratios, certified educators, and a safe, clean facility. With strong parent reviews highlighting its engaging curriculum and communicative staff, it serves as a reliable option for early education in the area.
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KinderCare Learning Center - Greeley West
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center in Greeley offers a comprehensive early childhood program focused on literacy, math, and social skills through a structured curriculum. It maintains high safety standards with background-checked staff and secure access, and has a long track record of positive parent feedback for its supportive teachers and inclusive environment. Serving Hereford and surrounding communities, it is a well-established choice for quality early learning.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Hereford, CO:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Hereford, CO, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Hereford and the surrounding rural areas, preschool costs can vary widely, often ranging from $150 to $400 per month for part-time programs. Due to Colorado's universal preschool (UPK) program, many 4-year-olds and some 3-year-olds qualify for 15 hours per week of free, state-funded preschool at participating providers. It's crucial to check with local centers or family home providers about their UPK participation and any additional fees for extended care.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in such a small, rural community like Hereford?
All licensed preschools in Colorado, including those in Hereford, are regulated by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC). You can use the CDEC's online licensing lookup tool to check a provider's compliance history and rating. Given the limited number of options, also consider visiting in person and asking for references from other local families to assess the program's environment and reputation firsthand.
Given Hereford's remote location, what are the main types of preschool settings available to families?
Options in and near Hereford typically include licensed family child care homes, which are often the most common in rural communities, and potentially part-day programs operated through community organizations or churches. Many families also look at preschools in nearby larger towns like La Junta or Lamar, which may offer center-based programs, necessitating consideration of transportation and commute time.
What should I look for in a preschool curriculum that is suited to a rural Colorado community like Hereford?
Look for a program that balances structured early literacy and math readiness with ample opportunities for hands-on, nature-based learning that leverages the local environment. A high-quality curriculum will incorporate play-based activities and social-emotional development. Ask how the program might include local themes, such as agriculture or outdoor exploration, which are highly relevant to the community.
When is the best time to start the enrollment process for a preschool in Hereford, and what is typically required?
Due to limited slots, it's advisable to start researching and contacting providers at least 6-9 months before your desired start date, often in the early spring for a fall enrollment. Required documents usually include proof of residency, your child's immunization records, and a birth certificate. Be sure to ask specifically about the Colorado Universal Preschool (UPK) application timeline, as that state process has its own registration window.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Colorado or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.