The Best Preschools in Washington, CT
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Washington. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Primrose School of Southbury
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Southbury is a nationally accredited early education center serving the Washington area with a Balanced Learning® approach that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The school features a research-based curriculum focused on whole-child development, including character development and life skills. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor learning environments. Teachers hold early childhood credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school serves children from infancy through pre-kindergarten and offers extended care options.
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Washington Montessori School
Independent
Washington Montessori School is one of Connecticut's oldest and most respected Montessori programs, serving the Washington community for over six decades. The school offers authentic Montessori education in carefully prepared environments designed to foster independence, curiosity, and love of learning. Classrooms are led by AMI-trained teachers who guide children through hands-on, individualized learning experiences. The campus features beautiful natural surroundings, outdoor classrooms, and developmentally appropriate materials. The school maintains small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios and emphasizes community values and global citizenship.
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KinderCare at New Milford
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at New Milford provides comprehensive early childhood education services to families in the Washington area with a curriculum that balances academic readiness and social-emotional development. The center features age-appropriate learning centers, secure facilities with keypad entry, and outdoor play areas. Their Early Foundations® curriculum aligns with state early learning standards and includes literacy, math, science, and creative arts. The center employs qualified teachers who participate in ongoing professional development and maintains strong health and safety protocols. Flexible scheduling options and enrichment programs are available to meet diverse family needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Washington, CT:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Washington, CT, and are there any financial assistance options?
In Washington, CT, preschool tuition typically ranges from $8,000 to $15,000+ annually, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. Some local preschools may offer sliding scale tuition or limited scholarships. Additionally, Connecticut's Care 4 Kids program provides state-funded assistance to eligible families, and it's advisable to inquire directly with schools like Washington Montessori School or the Washington Primary School about their specific financial policies.
How do I evaluate the quality and licensing of preschools in Washington?
All licensed preschools in Connecticut must meet state Office of Early Childhood (OEC) standards for health, safety, and staff qualifications. You can verify a school's license status on the OEC website. For a quality assessment, look for programs with low student-to-teacher ratios, ask about staff tenure and credentials, and schedule visits to observe the classroom environment at local options like The Little School or Steep Rock Association's nature-based programs.
What are the enrollment timelines and key deadlines for preschools in Washington, CT?
Enrollment timelines vary, but many private preschools in Washington begin their application process in January or February for the following fall semester, with deadlines often in March. Public preschool through Regional School District 12 has a separate process, typically with registration in the spring. It's crucial to contact schools directly in the fall prior to your desired start date, as some popular programs have waiting lists.
What types of preschool programs are available in Washington, CT?
Washington offers a range of approaches, including traditional play-based, Montessori (Washington Montessori School), and nature/outdoor-focused programs, often leveraging the town's rural setting and preserves like Steep Rock. There are also part-time and full-day options, as well as the public integrated preschool at Washington Primary School, which serves both typically developing children and those with special needs.
Given Washington's rural nature, what should I consider regarding location, transportation, and safety?
As a rural town, most preschools in Washington do not provide transportation; parents are typically responsible for drop-off and pick-up. When choosing a school, consider your commute along local routes like Route 47 or Route 199. For safety, inquire about school-specific protocols for emergencies, visitor access, and outdoor play security, especially for programs with extensive outdoor components.
Nearby Cities
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