The Best Preschools in Anna, IL
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Anna. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Anna Head Start Center
Community Action Agency of Southern Illinois
The Anna Head Start Center is a highly-regarded early learning facility operated by the Community Action Agency of Southern Illinois, offering comprehensive preschool and early childhood development programs. It emphasizes school readiness through a research-based curriculum that includes literacy, math, and social-emotional learning. With a strong focus on safety, the center maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and follows strict health protocols. Parent satisfaction is high due to its family engagement initiatives and support services, such as health screenings and nutrition programs. The center has built a reputation for educational quality and community involvement over nearly two decades.
Programs Offered:
KinderCare Learning Center at Carbondale
KinderCare Education
The KinderCare Learning Center in Carbondale is a top-rated early learning center that serves families in the Anna area, known for its high educational standards and safe, nurturing environment. It offers a balanced curriculum focusing on academic foundations, creativity, and physical development, aligned with state early learning standards. Safety is prioritized with secure facilities, background-checked staff, and emergency preparedness plans. With experienced teachers and low child-to-staff ratios, parent reviews highlight its engaging activities and strong communication. As part of the national KinderCare network, it combines proven educational practices with local community focus.
Programs Offered:
SIU Child Development Center
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
The SIU Child Development Center, affiliated with Southern Illinois University Carbondale, is a premier early learning facility serving the Anna region with a reputation for excellence in education and safety. It provides a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that fosters cognitive, social, and emotional growth, supported by highly qualified educators, many with advanced degrees. The center emphasizes safety through rigorous protocols, including secure access and health monitoring. Parent satisfaction is consistently high due to its individualized attention, innovative programs, and integration of university research in early childhood best practices, making it a trusted choice for families seeking quality preschool education.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Anna, IL:
What are the main types of preschool options available to families in Anna, IL?
In Anna, your primary options include the publicly funded Pre-K program at Anna-Jonesboro Community High School District 81, faith-based preschools often affiliated with local churches, and private in-home or center-based daycare programs that offer preschool curricula. Due to the city's size, exploring options in nearby communities like Carbondale or Murphysboro can provide more choices, especially for specialized programs.
How much does preschool typically cost in Anna, and are there financial assistance programs?
Costs vary significantly; church-affiliated preschools may charge $100-$200 per month, while private centers can be higher. The state-funded Preschool for All program, administered locally, provides free, high-quality preschool for income-eligible 3- and 4-year-olds. Contact the Union County or Regional Office of Education #30 to check eligibility and availability for these state grants and other assistance.
What should I look for to ensure a preschool in Anna is high-quality and licensed?
First, verify the program is licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), which sets health, safety, and staff qualification standards. Look for a structured daily routine that balances play and learning, and ask about teacher credentials—lead teachers in state-funded programs must have a Bachelor's degree and Early Childhood certification. Visiting the classroom to observe interactions is highly recommended.
When is the enrollment period for preschools in Anna, and what documents are needed?
Enrollment timelines differ; the public Pre-K program typically has registration in early spring, while private and faith-based schools may offer rolling admission. Key documents include your child's birth certificate, proof of Anna/Union County residency (like a utility bill), current immunization records, and a recent physical exam. It's best to contact programs directly in the winter to secure specific dates and requirements.
Are there preschools in Anna that accommodate non-traditional work schedules or offer full-day care?
While many traditional preschools in Anna offer half-day sessions, several licensed daycare centers provide full-day, year-round care that integrates a preschool curriculum, which is ideal for working parents. Options are limited within the city itself, so you may need to consider providers in the broader Anna-Jonesboro area. Be sure to ask explicitly about operating hours, as they can vary from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM at full-day facilities.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Illinois or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.