The Best Preschools in Sharon, KS
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Sharon. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Barber County North Early Head Start
Community Action Southwest Kansas
Barber County North Early Head Start is a highly-regarded early childhood program serving families in Sharon and surrounding Barber County areas. It provides comprehensive early education focused on school readiness, social-emotional development, and family engagement. The program maintains high safety standards with licensed teachers and follows evidence-based curricula. Parent satisfaction is strong due to its individualized approach and community partnerships, with many reviews highlighting the caring staff and nurturing environment.
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Pratt Community College Child Development Center
Pratt Community College
The Pratt Community College Child Development Center is an accredited facility known for its high-quality early education serving Pratt County and nearby areas including Sharon. It features a developmentally appropriate curriculum with emphasis on literacy, math, and social skills, led by qualified early childhood educators. The center has an excellent safety record, low student-teacher ratios, and strong parent satisfaction, with reviews praising its structured learning environment and engaging activities.
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Kiowa Early Childhood Center
Independent
Kiowa Early Childhood Center is a well-established preschool serving families in Kiowa and the broader region, including Sharon. It offers a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on whole-child development. The center is licensed and maintains high safety standards, with certified teachers and a curriculum that promotes creativity and critical thinking. Parent reviews frequently commend the dedicated staff, clean facilities, and positive learning outcomes for children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Sharon, KS:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Sharon, KS, and are there any local financial assistance options?
In Sharon, preschool costs can vary, but many local in-home or church-affiliated programs are often more affordable than larger center-based options in bigger cities, typically ranging from $100 to $250 per month for part-time schedules. For financial assistance, Kansas offers the Child Care Subsidy program through the Department for Children and Families (DCF), and some local providers may offer sliding scale fees based on income. It's best to inquire directly with individual preschools about their specific rates and any available scholarships.
What types of preschool programs are available in the Sharon area?
Given Sharon's small, rural community, options often include home-based preschools, programs operated through local churches, or part-time cooperative models where parents may assist. Some families may also consider licensed family childcare homes that offer preschool-style curricula. For more structured or full-day options, parents sometimes look at programs in nearby larger towns like Medicine Lodge or Pratt, which may be a short commute.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Sharon, KS?
All licensed childcare providers in Kansas, including preschools, are regulated by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). You can search for a provider's license status, inspection reports, and any history of violations on the KDHE website. For home-based or smaller programs, always ask the director for their current license and consider visiting during operating hours to observe the environment and ask about staff qualifications.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for preschools in Sharon?
Due to limited slots in a small community, it's advisable to begin inquiring and visiting preschools in Sharon the winter or early spring before the fall you wish to enroll. Many programs have simple registration forms and may require a registration fee to secure a spot. Be sure to ask about required documentation, such as immunization records and a birth certificate, which are standard for Kansas early childhood programs.
Are there any unique considerations for preschools in a rural community like Sharon?
Yes, transportation is a key consideration, as most preschools in Sharon do not provide bus service, so parents must arrange drop-off and pick-up. Additionally, class sizes tend to be small, which can offer more individualized attention but may mean fewer peer interactions. It's also common for programs to have mixed-age groups, and you may find a strong focus on community values and outdoor play, leveraging the rural setting.
Nearby Cities
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