The Best Preschools in Telluride, CO
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Telluride. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Telluride Mountain School
Independent
Telluride Mountain School is a highly-regarded private institution offering preschool programs with a strong emphasis on experiential and outdoor learning. It features small class sizes, state-licensed teachers, and a curriculum that integrates literacy, math, and social skills through hands-on activities. The school is known for its safe environment, high parent satisfaction, and commitment to individualized education, serving families in Telluride and the surrounding San Juan Mountains region.
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Telluride Childcare Center
Independent
Telluride Childcare Center provides comprehensive early childhood education and daycare services with a play-based curriculum that fosters cognitive, social, and emotional development. It maintains excellent safety records, employs qualified staff with early childhood certifications, and emphasizes parent communication and involvement. The center is praised for its nurturing environment and flexible programs tailored to working families in Telluride.
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Montrose Children's House
Independent
Montrose Children's House is a top-rated Montessori preschool serving the Western Colorado region, including Telluride residents. It offers a child-centered curriculum focused on independence, practical life skills, and academic readiness, led by AMI-certified teachers. With a strong track record in safety, low student-to-teacher ratios, and high parent satisfaction, it provides transportation options and community outreach, making it a trusted choice for early learning in the area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Telluride, CO:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Telluride, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
Preschool tuition in Telluride can range significantly, often from approximately $800 to over $1,500 per month, reflecting the area's high cost of living. Many local preschools offer sliding scale tuition based on family income, and the Telluride School District R-1 may offer state-funded Colorado Universal Preschool (UPK) hours for eligible 4-year-olds. It's essential to inquire directly with each school about their specific fees and any available scholarships or UPK partnerships.
How do I navigate the limited number of preschool options in a small mountain town like Telluride?
While options are more limited than in urban areas, Telluride has several highly-regarded programs, including center-based preschools, nature-based schools, and home-based licensed providers. Start your search early, as spaces fill quickly, often a year in advance. Utilize local parent networks, the San Miguel County Department of Human Services child care resource list, and the Telluride School District website for leads on licensed programs.
Are there preschools in Telluride that emphasize outdoor and nature-based learning?
Absolutely. Given Telluride's stunning natural environment, several preschools integrate outdoor education as a core component. Look for programs with dedicated outdoor classrooms, regular forest school days, or a curriculum centered on mountain ecology and outdoor play. This approach is common and aligns well with Colorado's early learning guidelines that emphasize physical development and exploration.
What should I look for regarding safety and preparedness in a Telluride preschool, given the mountain environment?
Beyond standard safety protocols, inquire about specific mountain-community preparedness. This includes policies for extreme weather, wildfire smoke procedures, and safe outdoor excursion protocols. A quality Telluride preschool will have clear communication plans for parents during road closures or weather events and staff trained in both first aid and the unique aspects of managing young children in a high-altitude outdoor setting.
How does the Colorado Universal Preschool (UPK) program work with preschools in Telluride?
Colorado's UPK program provides funded hours for eligible children in the year before they enter kindergarten. In Telluride, several licensed preschool providers are "UPK providers" who can apply the state funding directly to reduce your tuition costs. You must apply through the state UPK portal first to receive a funding certificate, then work with your chosen participating Telluride preschool to enroll and apply the benefit.
Nearby Cities
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