BestPreschoolsNear.me
Parent Trusted

The Best Preschools in Somerset, CO

Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Somerset. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.

3 Quality Preschools
4.7 Average Rating

Bright Beginnings Preschool & Childcare

Bright Beginnings Early Learning Centers

4.8/ 5.0
15 years experience

Bright Beginnings is a highly-rated early learning center located approximately 45 minutes from Somerset, serving the broader Western Colorado region. They offer a comprehensive preschool program focused on school readiness with a balanced curriculum that includes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center maintains small class sizes with qualified early childhood educators and emphasizes a safe, nurturing environment. Their program includes structured learning activities combined with play-based exploration, and they maintain excellent state licensing compliance records.

Programs Offered:

Preschool ProgramDaycareKindergarten ReadinessAfter School Care
101 N Park Ave, Montrose, CO 81401

Apple Tree Preschool

Apple Tree Early Learning

4.7/ 5.0
12 years experience

Apple Tree Preschool serves the North Fork Valley region including Somerset, located approximately 30 minutes away in Delta. They provide a research-based early childhood curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and developmental appropriateness. The facility features modern classrooms, secure access systems, and outdoor learning environments. Their teachers hold early childhood credentials and the program focuses on building foundational academic skills while fostering social development and independence. Parent reviews consistently praise the caring staff and the noticeable developmental progress children make.

Programs Offered:

Early Childhood EducationFull-Day PreschoolSummer ProgramsDevelopmental Screenings
180 E 10th St, Delta, CO 81416

Montrose Early Learning Center

Community Roots Early Learning

4.6/ 5.0
18 years experience

Montrose Early Learning Center is an established facility serving the Western Colorado region, including families from Somerset area. They offer a play-based learning approach integrated with structured academic preparation. The center features age-appropriate learning environments, certified early childhood teachers, and a comprehensive safety protocol including secure entry systems. Their curriculum aligns with Colorado Early Learning Guidelines and focuses on developing the whole child through literacy, STEM exploration, creative arts, and physical development activities. The center maintains strong community partnerships and excellent parent satisfaction ratings.

Programs Offered:

Infant CareToddler ProgramPreschoolPre-KindergartenEnrichment Activities
325 S 5th St, Montrose, CO 81401

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about preschools in Somerset, CO:

What are the typical costs for preschool in Somerset, CO, and are there any financial assistance programs available?

In Somerset and the surrounding North Fork Valley, preschool costs can range from approximately $400 to $800 per month, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. For financial assistance, Colorado's Universal Preschool (UPK) program offers 15 hours per week of free, voluntary preschool to all children in the year before they enter kindergarten, which you can apply for through the state's online portal. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees based on income.

How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Somerset?

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 the Somerset area?

Given Somerset's rural mountain community setting, options often include home-based preschools, small private centers, and programs affiliated with local elementary schools. Many programs in the area incorporate nature-based and outdoor learning, taking advantage of the surrounding environment. For more structured or specific approaches (like Montessori), parents may need to consider programs in nearby larger towns like Paonia or Hotchkiss.

What is the enrollment timeline and process for preschools in Somerset, CO?

Enrollment timelines can vary, but for programs aligned with the school year, registration often begins in early spring (February-March). A critical first step is to apply for the Colorado Universal Preschool (UPK) funding, which has its own application window. It's advisable to contact local providers directly in the winter to inquire about their specific deadlines, availability, and any required tours or waitlists.

Are there considerations specific to Somerset's location that I should ask about when choosing a preschool?

Yes, due to Somerset's rural and high-altitude location, it's important to inquire about transportation options, as many programs do not provide bus service. Ask about their policies for winter weather delays or closures, which can be more frequent. Also, explore how the program utilizes the natural outdoor setting for play and learning, which is a significant benefit of preschools in this area.

Finding the Perfect Start: Your Guide to Preschools in Somerset, Colorado

For parents in our close-knit Somerset community, the search for the "best preschools near me" is about so much more than just proximity. It's about finding a nurturing first step in your child's educational journey, a place where curiosity is sparked and social skills blossom right here in our own backyard. The good news is that the Somerset and surrounding Northern Colorado area offers wonderful early childhood options, each with its own unique approach to helping little ones grow.

The first step in your search is to reflect on what "best" means for your family. Are you looking for a play-based program where learning is woven into creative activities, or one with a more structured curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten? Perhaps a preschool with a strong outdoor component is ideal, taking advantage of our beautiful Colorado landscape. Many local programs incorporate nature exploration, which is a fantastic way for children to learn about the world around them. Scheduling is another key consideration; some families need full-day care, while others might prefer a few half-days a week to ease their child into a school setting.

Once you have a sense of your priorities, the real discovery begins. We are fortunate to have several excellent options within a short drive. I encourage you to look beyond a simple online search and truly engage with the schools. The very best thing you can do is schedule a visit. When you tour a preschool, pay close attention to the atmosphere. Do the children seem happily engaged? Is the space clean, safe, and filled with stimulating materials? Don't hesitate to ask the teachers and directors questions. Inquire about their educational philosophy, how they handle social conflicts between children, and what a typical day looks like. A great preschool will welcome your questions and be transparent about their practices.

Also, tap into the most valuable resource we have: other Somerset parents. Conversations at the playground, community events, or local social media groups can provide honest insights and personal recommendations. Hearing about another family's positive experience can point you toward a program that might be the perfect fit. Remember to consider practicalities like the daily commute, especially during our winter months, and of course, the tuition structure.

Choosing a preschool is a significant decision, but it doesn't have to be an overwhelming one. By focusing on your child's individual personality and needs, taking the time to visit, and trusting your instincts as a parent, you will find a wonderful early learning environment. The right preschool in our area will provide a foundation of joy, discovery, and confidence, setting your child on a path to love learning for years to come. Your search is the first step in an incredible adventure for your little one.

Nearby Cities

Explore preschools in cities near Somerset:

Looking for More Options?

Explore preschools in other cities across Colorado or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.