The Best Preschools in Johnston, IA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Johnston. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare Learning Center in Johnston is a highly-rated facility known for its robust early childhood education curriculum aligned with state standards. It emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities in a safe, nurturing environment. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios, employs qualified educators with CPR/first-aid certification, and has a strong safety record with secure entry systems. Parent satisfaction is high due to consistent communication and engaging family events.
Programs Offered:
Primrose School of Johnston
Primrose Schools Franchising Company
Primrose School of Johnston offers a balanced learning approach through its exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, blending academic readiness with character development. The school features accredited programs, low teacher-student ratios, and a safe environment with monitored access. Teachers hold early childhood credentials, and the facility is praised for its clean, organized classrooms and high parent involvement. It focuses on whole-child development with arts, music, and physical activities.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located in nearby Clive, The Goddard School serves the Johnston area with a play-based learning curriculum that promotes cognitive, social, and physical development. It is recognized for its F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program, which includes language arts, math, and science activities. The school maintains high safety standards with background-checked teachers and secure facilities. Parent reviews highlight its engaging environment, qualified staff, and effective communication, making it a top choice for families in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Johnston, IA:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Johnston, Iowa, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Johnston, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $200 to $400, depending on the program's schedule (half-day vs. full-day) and whether it's a private center, faith-based, or a public school partnership. For financial assistance, Iowa offers the Early Childhood Iowa (ECI) area boards, and locally, you can inquire about income-based scholarships through specific centers or the Johnston Community School District's preschool program for qualifying families.
How do I find licensed and high-quality preschool programs in Johnston?
Start by using the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Care Provider Search to verify a center's licensing and review any compliance history. For quality, look for programs participating in Iowa's voluntary Quality Rating System (QRS), known as Iowa's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS), which assesses environments and teaching practices. The Johnston Community School District also offers a highly-regarded 4-year-old preschool program.
What are the enrollment timelines and age cut-offs for Johnston preschools?
Enrollment timelines vary, but for the Johnston Community School District's preschool, registration typically opens in early spring for the following fall. Most private centers in Johnston accept rolling enrollment based on availability. The common age cut-off is that a child must be 4 years old by September 15 to enroll in a 4-year-old preschool program, though some centers offer programs for 3-year-olds with different age requirements.
What types of preschool curriculum or philosophies are commonly available in Johnston?
Johnston preschools offer a range of approaches, including play-based, Montessori, and faith-based curricula. A prominent option is the Johnston Community School District's program, which uses a research-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Iowa Early Learning Standards. Many local private centers also emphasize school readiness with a focus on social-emotional learning and early literacy to prepare children for Johnston's elementary schools.
How important is location and transportation, and do Johnston preschools offer bus services?
Location is key for daily logistics, especially given Johnston's suburban layout and potential commute to Des Moines. The Johnston Community School District provides bus transportation for its district-run preschool program, which is a significant benefit. Most private preschool centers, however, do not offer transportation, so parents should factor in drop-off and pick-up convenience relative to their home or workplace.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Iowa or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.