The Best Preschools in Danville, IA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Danville. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Mount Pleasant
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Mount Pleasant is a highly-rated early childhood education center serving the Danville area with comprehensive programs for children from infancy through pre-kindergarten. They feature a play-based learning approach combined with academic preparation, focusing on social, emotional, and cognitive development. The facility maintains excellent safety standards with secure entry systems and trained staff, offering flexible scheduling options and nutritious meal programs. Their curriculum emphasizes STEAM learning, literacy development, and social skills through structured play and hands-on activities.
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Little Lambs Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Little Lambs Preschool & Childcare in Mount Pleasant has served the Danville community for over 15 years with a reputation for nurturing care and quality early education. Their Christian-based curriculum focuses on kindergarten readiness while emphasizing character development and social skills. The facility features small class sizes with qualified teachers, providing individualized attention and a safe, welcoming environment. Parents consistently praise the dedicated staff, clean facilities, and the balanced approach to learning that includes both structured academic activities and creative play.
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Growing Tree Child Care & Preschool
Independent
Growing Tree Child Care & Preschool offers comprehensive early childhood programs for families in the Danville area, focusing on developmental appropriate practices and school readiness. Their curriculum balances academic preparation with social-emotional learning, featuring literacy development, mathematics concepts, science exploration, and creative arts. The center maintains high staff-to-child ratios with experienced early childhood educators, and parents appreciate the consistent communication and family-oriented atmosphere. Safety protocols include secure facilities, regular cleaning procedures, and staff training in emergency preparedness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Danville, IA:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Danville, IA?
In Danville and the surrounding Des Moines County area, preschool costs vary by program type. Community-based or faith-affiliated preschools may charge $100-$200 per month for part-time programs, while full-day childcare-integrated preschool can range from $600-$900 monthly. It's important to inquire about the Danville Community School District's Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program (SWVPP), which provides free or low-cost preschool slots for eligible 4-year-olds at participating local providers.
How do I find licensed and quality-rated preschools in Danville?
Start by checking the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) online childcare portal to verify a provider's license and review any monitoring reports. For quality indicators, look for programs participating in Iowa's Quality Rating System (QRS), known as Iowa's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). Additionally, the Danville Community School District can be a resource for recommendations on local SWVPP partner preschools that meet state standards.
What are the enrollment timelines and age requirements for Danville preschools?
Most Danville preschools follow a traditional school year calendar and begin enrollment in early spring (February-March) for the following fall. For the Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program, children must be 4 years old by September 15. Some private programs may accept children as young as 3. Due to limited slots, especially in popular programs, contacting providers by January is highly recommended to secure a spot.
What types of preschool programs are available in a small town like Danville?
Despite its size, Danville typically offers a few key options: the Danville Community School District's preschool program (often a partnership with a local provider), faith-based preschools attached to local churches, and in-home licensed preschools. Given the rural setting, many families also consider programs in nearby larger towns like Burlington, so factoring in transportation is an important local consideration.
How can I assess the safety and environment of a preschool in Danville?
Always schedule an in-person visit to observe the facility's cleanliness, security measures, and outdoor play area safety. During your tour, ask about staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, and emergency procedures tailored for a rural community. You can also confirm the program's most recent DHS licensing inspection report, which is public record and will note any compliance issues.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Iowa or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.