The Best Preschools in Barrington, IL
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Barrington. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Barrington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Barrington offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, social-emotional development, and school readiness skills. The school maintains excellent safety protocols and has received consistent high ratings from parents for its nurturing environment and educational quality.
Programs Offered:
Barrington Community Unit School District 220 Early Learning Center
Barrington School District 220
The Barrington Early Learning Center operates under the highly-regarded Barrington School District 220, providing exceptional early childhood education with certified teachers and specialized staff. The program emphasizes developmentally appropriate practices, social skills development, and kindergarten readiness. The center offers both general education and special education preschool programs in an inclusive environment. With small class sizes, individualized attention, and strong parent-teacher partnerships, this public preschool program maintains an outstanding reputation for educational quality and comprehensive child development support.
Programs Offered:
Primrose School of Barrington
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Barrington delivers the nationally-recognized Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The school features state-of-the-art facilities with dedicated learning centers, outdoor play areas, and security systems. Their approach emphasizes character development, literacy, mathematics, and social skills through hands-on learning experiences. The school maintains high staff qualifications with ongoing professional development and has earned excellent parent reviews for its structured yet engaging learning environment, comprehensive safety measures, and strong community involvement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Barrington, IL:
What is the average cost of preschool in Barrington, IL, and are there any financial assistance options?
In Barrington, full-time preschool programs typically range from $1,200 to $1,800 per month, while part-time options can be $600-$900 monthly. Financial assistance may be available through the Barrington Area Development Council (BADC) or specific preschools' scholarship funds. Additionally, some local centers participate in the Illinois Action for Children (IAC) program, which provides subsidies to eligible families.
How do Barrington preschools incorporate outdoor and nature-based learning, given the local environment?
Many Barrington preschools leverage the area's natural resources, with programs utilizing nearby forest preserves like Crabtree Nature Center or Flint Creek for exploration. Several schools feature dedicated outdoor classrooms and gardens, aligning with the community's emphasis on nature. This focus is supported by local initiatives, such as those from the Barrington Park District, which often partner with preschools for environmental education.
What are the key differences between a Barrington Community Unit School District 220 preschool and a private preschool in the area?
Barrington 220's early childhood program is primarily a blended, part-day program designed for children with identified needs, alongside typically developing peer models, and is often tuition-based for peers. Private preschools in Barrington offer more varied schedules (full or part-time), philosophies (Montessori, Reggio, faith-based), and typically serve a broader age range starting as young as two. District 220 programs are housed in public elementary schools, while private options are in dedicated centers, churches, or community facilities.
When should I start the application process for Barrington preschools, and what are typical enrollment deadlines?
For the fall semester, many sought-after private preschools in Barrington begin their application processes in January or February, with deadlines often by March 1st. It's highly recommended to start researching and touring schools the prior fall. For Barrington 220's early childhood program, the screening and application timeline is also in the early spring, so contacting the district directly in January is advisable.
How can I verify the licensing and quality of a preschool in Barrington?
All licensed Illinois preschools must be listed in the DCFS (Department of Children and Family Services) licensing database, where you can check compliance history. For quality indicators, look for programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or recognized by ExceleRate Illinois, the state's quality rating system. You can also consult local parent networks and the Barrington Area Library's community resources for recommendations.
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