The Best Preschools in Mount Auburn, IL
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Mount Auburn. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Springfield
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Springfield is a highly-rated early childhood education center serving families throughout central Illinois, including the Mount Auburn area. With a FLEX Learning Program that balances academic learning with play-based development, the school focuses on social, emotional, and academic readiness. Features include secure entry systems, highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes STEAM learning, literacy development, and character education. The facility maintains excellent safety records and high parent satisfaction ratings.
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Springfield Montessori School
Springfield Montessori Association
Springfield Montessori School offers authentic Montessori education for children ages 18 months through 12 years, serving families across central Illinois including Mount Auburn. The school is accredited by the American Montessori Society and features specially trained teachers, individualized learning plans, and mixed-age classrooms that foster independence and natural curiosity. The campus includes beautifully prepared environments with Montessori materials, outdoor learning spaces, and a strong community focus. The school maintains excellent educational standards with low student-teacher ratios and a proven track record of preparing children for academic success.
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The Learning Tree Child Development Center
Independent
Located in nearby Taylorville, The Learning Tree Child Development Center serves Christian County and surrounding areas including Mount Auburn. This established center offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a balanced curriculum that incorporates both structured learning and play-based activities. The facility features secure access, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and experienced teaching staff with early childhood certifications. The program emphasizes kindergarten readiness through literacy development, math concepts, social skills, and creative expression. The center maintains strong safety protocols and has built a reputation for quality care over two decades of operation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Mount Auburn, IL:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Mount Auburn, Illinois, and are there any local financial assistance options?
In Mount Auburn, preschool tuition can range from approximately $100 to $250 per week, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. For financial assistance, families should inquire directly with individual centers about potential sliding scale fees and check their eligibility for the state's Early Childhood Block Grant programs, which fund preschool spots in some local districts and community-based settings.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Mount Auburn?
All licensed preschools in Illinois, including those in Mount Auburn, are regulated by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can search for a facility's licensing status and any history of violations on the DCFS website. Additionally, visiting in person to observe classroom interactions and asking about staff qualifications and turnover rates are crucial local steps for assessing quality.
What are the main types of preschool programs available in Mount Auburn?
Options in Mount Auburn typically include part-day programs at local community churches, full-day childcare centers that incorporate preschool curriculum, and potentially a state-funded Pre-K program through the local school district. Given the rural setting, home-based preschool programs may also be an option, so it's important to research and visit to find the right fit for your child's schedule and your family's needs.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Mount Auburn, given the small community size?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Mount Auburn, it is advisable to begin your search and inquiries at least 6-12 months before your desired start date. Many programs have small class sizes and waiting lists can form quickly. Contacting programs in the winter or early spring for a fall start is a common local strategy to secure a spot.
Are there specific considerations for preschool transportation and location in Mount Auburn?
Given Mount Auburn's rural location in Christian County, most preschools do not provide transportation; parents are typically responsible for drop-off and pick-up. When choosing a preschool, consider its proximity to your home or workplace along rural routes, especially during winter weather. Centralizing errands around the preschool's location can be a practical strategy for managing the commute.
Nearby Cities
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