The Best Preschools in Hurlburt Field, FL
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Hurlburt Field. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Hurlburt Field Child Development Center
1st Special Operations Force Support Squadron, United States Air Force
The Hurlburt Field Child Development Center is a highly-regarded on-base facility serving military families with a strong focus on safety, structured learning, and age-appropriate developmental programs. It features a comprehensive preschool curriculum aligned with early childhood education standards, emphasizing social-emotional growth, literacy, and STEM activities. The center maintains high staff qualifications, low child-to-teacher ratios, and rigorous safety protocols, including secure access and regular drills. Parent satisfaction is consistently high due to its responsive communication, inclusive environment, and support for military family needs.
Programs Offered:
KinderCare Learning Center - Fort Walton Beach
KinderCare Education LLC
This KinderCare center in Fort Walton Beach is a top-rated option serving the Hurlburt Field area with a research-based curriculum that promotes early literacy, math, and social skills. It boasts experienced teachers with early childhood credentials, a safe and nurturing environment with secured entry, and a focus on individualized learning. Parents praise its engaging activities, clean facilities, and strong communication. The center is known for its inclusive approach and flexibility to accommodate military family schedules.
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Primrose School of Bluewater Bay
Primrose Schools Franchising Company
Located in nearby Niceville, Primrose School of Bluewater Bay is a highly acclaimed early learning center serving families from Hurlburt Field with its proprietary Balanced Learning® approach, blending academic, physical, and character development. The school features low student-to-teacher ratios, certified educators, and a safe campus with modern security systems. It emphasizes hands-on learning, technology integration, and community involvement, resulting in excellent parent reviews for its educational outcomes and caring atmosphere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Hurlburt Field, FL:
What are the main types of preschool options available for military families at Hurlburt Field?
The primary options are the Child Development Center (CDC) on the base itself, which offers full-day, part-day, and hourly care, and accredited family child care homes within the base housing areas. Off-base, there are several licensed centers and faith-based preschools in the surrounding communities of Mary Esther and Fort Walton Beach. Military families are typically given priority for on-base facilities.
How does the fee structure work for the Hurlburt Field Child Development Center, and is there financial assistance?
Fees at the Hurlburt Field CDC are based on your Total Family Income (TFI) tier, as determined by the Department of Defense. You must submit a current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) to establish your weekly rate. Financial assistance is available through the Air Force Aid Society's Child Care for PCS and Deployment program, which can provide grants for qualifying circumstances like permanent change of station (PCS) moves.
What should I look for to ensure a preschool is high-quality in this area, given the transient military population?
Look for accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or a Florida Gold Seal Quality Care designation, which both indicate rigorous standards. For on-base care, the CDC is nationally accredited. Also, inquire about teacher turnover rates and how the program supports children transitioning in and out due to frequent military moves, as consistency is key.
How far in advance should I put my child on a waitlist for preschool at Hurlburt Field?
For the on-base Child Development Center, you should register your child in the MilitaryChildCare.com system as soon as you have orders to Hurlburt Field, as waitlists can be several months long. For popular off-base programs in Okaloosa County, contacting them 6-12 months before your desired start date is advisable, especially to align with typical Florida school-year enrollment cycles.
Are there preschool programs in the area that cater to specific educational philosophies or special needs?
Yes, while the base CDC follows a standardized, developmentally appropriate curriculum, several off-base centers in the Fort Walton Beach area offer Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or faith-based approaches. For children with special needs, the Hurlburt Field CDC and many local providers can create individualized plans, and Florida's Early Learning Coalitions can help connect families with inclusive programs and support services.
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