The Best Preschools in Jennings, KS
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Jennings. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Norton Head Start
Community Action of Northeast Kansas
Norton Head Start is a highly-regarded early childhood program serving Decatur County and surrounding areas, including Jennings. It provides comprehensive services focused on school readiness, health, nutrition, and family engagement for children from low-income families. The program employs qualified early childhood educators and uses a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, social skills, and cognitive development. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the nurturing environment, individualized attention, and strong community partnerships. Safety protocols are rigorously maintained, and the program has a long track record of positive outcomes for children.
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Oberlin Child Development Center
Local Non-Profit Organization
Oberlin Child Development Center is a trusted early learning facility serving Northwest Kansas communities, including Jennings. It offers a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum led by certified early childhood educators. The center focuses on kindergarten readiness through activities that promote literacy, math, science, and social-emotional skills. With excellent safety records, low student-to-teacher ratios, and a welcoming environment, it has built a strong reputation for quality care and education. Parent reviews highlight the dedicated staff, clean facilities, and effective communication.
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Colby Community College Child Development Center
Colby Community College
The Colby Community College Child Development Center is a top-rated facility that serves families across a wide region, including Jennings. It combines early childhood education with teacher training programs, ensuring high-quality instruction and curriculum implementation. The center uses evidence-based practices to support cognitive, physical, and social development, with emphasis on literacy, STEM, and creative arts. Safety is a priority, with secure facilities and trained staff. Parents value the educational rigor, experienced educators, and inclusive environment, contributing to its high satisfaction ratings and longevity in the community.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Jennings, KS:
What are the main types of preschool options available in Jennings, KS?
In Jennings and the surrounding rural area, options typically include home-based daycare programs that offer preschool curriculum, faith-based preschools often affiliated with local churches, and potentially part-day programs offered through community organizations. Due to the small size of the town, many families also consider licensed in-home providers or look at programs in nearby larger communities like Norton or Phillipsburg for more structured preschool settings.
How much does preschool typically cost in Jennings, KS?
Preschool costs in Jennings are generally lower than urban averages, with in-home or faith-based programs often ranging from $100 to $250 per month for part-time schedules. Some providers may offer sliding scale fees based on income. It's also important to inquire about the Kansas Child Care Subsidy program, which can help eligible families with costs, and check if any local providers participate in the state's quality rating system, which can affect subsidy rates.
What should I look for to ensure a preschool in Jennings is safe and high-quality?
First, verify the provider is licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), which ensures they meet basic health, safety, and staff training standards. Ask about the staff-to-child ratio and caregiver qualifications. In a small community like Jennings, personal recommendations and visiting the setting to observe cleanliness, safe outdoor play areas, and how caregivers interact with children are especially valuable indicators of quality.
Are there any free or public preschool programs available in Jennings, KS?
Jennings itself is part of Unified School District 231 (Northern Valley Schools). You should contact the district office to inquire about any available pre-K programs, such as Title I preschool or special education services for qualifying children. For general enrollment, Kansas does not have universal public pre-K, so free options are typically limited to specific federal or state-funded programs for which families must meet eligibility criteria.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and required documents for preschools in this area?
Due to limited slots, enrollment for the fall often begins in the spring or even earlier. Contact providers directly, as many in-home and small programs in Jennings operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Required documents usually include a current immunization record (per Kansas law), a completed enrollment form, and a recent physical exam. Some programs may also require proof of residency within the school district or county.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Kansas or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.