The Best Preschools in Laurel, IA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Laurel. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility serving the Laurel and greater Marshall County area. With over a decade of operation, they provide comprehensive preschool programming with a play-based learning approach. The center features state-licensed teachers, low student-to-teacher ratios, and a curriculum focused on social-emotional development, literacy, and kindergarten readiness. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, experienced staff, and clean, safe facilities. Their location in nearby Marshalltown makes them accessible to Laurel families seeking quality early education.
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St. Francis Early Childhood Center
St. Francis of Assisi Parish
St. Francis Early Childhood Center operates as part of the St. Francis of Assisi Parish, serving families throughout Marshall County including Laurel. The center offers a faith-based preschool program that integrates Catholic values with developmentally appropriate early learning. Their experienced teaching staff holds early childhood credentials and provides a structured curriculum emphasizing literacy, mathematics, social skills, and spiritual development. The facility maintains excellent safety records and small class sizes, with many families noting the warm, family-like atmosphere and strong community connections.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Ames
KinderCare Education
As part of the nationally recognized KinderCare network, this Ames location serves families throughout central Iowa, including those commuting from Laurel. The center offers comprehensive early childhood programs with research-based curriculum focusing on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Features include highly qualified teachers with early childhood degrees, secure facilities with controlled access, and structured learning environments. While located in Ames approximately 30 minutes from Laurel, many rural families choose this option for its consistent quality standards, extensive operating hours, and proven educational outcomes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Laurel, IA:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Laurel, Iowa?
In Laurel and the surrounding rural areas of Iowa, preschool costs can vary. Many families utilize the Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program (SWVPP), which provides 10 hours per week of free, high-quality preschool for 4-year-olds through participating community providers or the local school district. For private, full-day options, costs typically range from $150 to $250 per week, depending on the program's hours and curriculum.
How do I find licensed and accredited preschools in or near Laurel?
The Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) maintains a searchable online database of all licensed child care and preschool providers. You can search by zip code (50141) to find regulated options in Laurel and nearby towns like Marshalltown or Newton. Additionally, checking with the North Mahaska Community School District can provide information on their SWVPP-affiliated preschool options.
What are the enrollment timelines and age requirements for preschools in this area?
For the free SWVPP, children must be 4 years old by September 15th of the program year. Enrollment typically begins in the spring, and it's crucial to contact the North Mahaska district or local providers early as spots can be limited in small communities. Private preschools may have more flexible age cutoffs and rolling enrollment, but they also fill quickly.
What types of preschool programs are available in a small town like Laurel?
Options often include the part-day SWVPP program, which may be housed at the North Mahaska Elementary School or a licensed home preschool. Some in-home providers offer full-day care with a preschool curriculum. Due to Laurel's size, many families also consider programs in larger neighboring communities, which may offer Montessori, faith-based, or nature-based approaches.
How can I assess the quality and safety of a preschool in Laurel?
Always verify the provider's license status through Iowa DHS, which requires background checks and health/safety inspections. You can request the provider's latest monitoring reports. Schedule a visit to observe cleanliness, child-to-staff ratios, and the learning environment. Don't hesitate to ask for references from other local parents, as community reputation is very telling in small towns.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Iowa or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.