The Best Preschools in Worthington, IA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Worthington. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Dubuque
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Dubuque is a highly-rated early childhood education center located approximately 20 miles from Worthington. This facility operates under the nationally recognized Goddard Systems framework, offering a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and emotional growth. The school features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through play-based learning approaches. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, cleanliness, and the professional development of their teaching staff.
Programs Offered:
Holy Family Early Childhood Center
Holy Family Catholic Schools
Holy Family Early Childhood Center has served the Dubuque area for over two decades, providing faith-based early education to children from infant through pre-kindergarten. Located about 18 miles from Worthington, this center combines academic preparation with Catholic values in a nurturing environment. The facility features low student-to-teacher ratios, certified early childhood educators, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes language development, mathematics, science exploration, and social skills. Safety is prioritized with secure facilities, background-checked staff, and emergency preparedness protocols. The center receives excellent parent reviews for its caring atmosphere and strong educational foundation.
Programs Offered:
Sunshine Early Learning Center
Sunshine Services
Sunshine Early Learning Center is a well-established childcare and preschool facility serving the greater Dubuque County area, including Worthington families. This center offers a research-based curriculum that aligns with Iowa Early Learning Standards, focusing on school readiness through structured play and guided learning activities. The facility features bright, modern classrooms, outdoor play areas, and specialized learning centers for literacy, mathematics, and creative arts. Staff members hold early childhood credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. Parents consistently rate the center highly for its communication, individualized attention to children's needs, and comprehensive approach to early childhood development. The center maintains excellent safety records with secure access systems and regular safety drills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Worthington, IA:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Worthington, Iowa?
In Worthington and surrounding rural areas, preschool costs can vary. Many families utilize the Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program (SWVPP), which provides 10 hours per week of free preschool for 4-year-olds through participating school districts or qualified private providers. For additional or private childcare, costs are generally more affordable than in urban areas, but it's best to contact providers directly for specific rates and any available sliding-scale fees.
How do I find licensed and accredited preschools near Worthington, IA?
Start by checking with the MFL MarMac Community School District, which serves the Worthington area, as they may offer a preschool program. You can also use the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Care Provider Search tool online to find licensed centers and homes in Delaware County. For quality indicators, look for providers participating in Iowa's Quality Rating System (QRS), known as Iowa's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS).
What should I consider regarding transportation for preschool in a rural town like Worthington?
Transportation is a key factor in rural settings. The local school district may provide busing for its district-run preschool program. Private in-home providers or centers typically do not offer transportation, so parents must arrange it. When choosing a preschool, consider its location relative to your home or workplace, especially during Iowa's winter weather conditions.
Are there preschools in Worthington that offer flexible schedules or full-day care?
Options may be limited within Worthington itself due to its small size. The SWVPP through the school district typically offers part-day, part-week sessions. For full-day care, you may need to look at licensed family childcare homes in the area or centers in nearby larger towns like Manchester or Dyersville, which often provide more extended hours to accommodate working parents.
What are the key questions to ask a preschool provider in Worthington about their curriculum and safety?
Ask about their alignment with the Iowa Early Learning Standards and how they prepare children for kindergarten at MFL MarMac Elementary. For safety, inquire about their emergency plans for severe weather common to Iowa, staff-to-child ratios, and the background check process for all employees as required by Iowa DHS licensing. Also, visit the facility to observe the environment firsthand.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Iowa or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.