The Best Preschools in Sterling, KS
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Sterling. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Sterling Early Learning Center
Independent
Sterling Early Learning Center is the primary dedicated early childhood facility in Sterling, offering comprehensive preschool and daycare services. The center provides age-appropriate curriculum focusing on social, emotional, and academic development. With small class sizes and experienced educators, they emphasize individualized attention and play-based learning. The facility maintains excellent safety records and strong parent satisfaction, serving as the community's trusted early education provider with structured programs that prepare children for kindergarten readiness.
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Kids Learning Place
Independent
Located in nearby Lyons (approximately 15 miles from Sterling), Kids Learning Place serves families throughout Rice County with high-quality early childhood education. The center features a developmentally appropriate curriculum that balances structured learning with creative play. With certified early childhood educators and low student-teacher ratios, they focus on literacy development, social skills, and kindergarten preparation. The facility maintains excellent safety standards and receives consistently positive parent reviews for its nurturing environment and educational quality.
Programs Offered:
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Hutchinson (approximately 25 miles from Sterling) is part of the nationally recognized Goddard System, offering a premier early childhood education program. The facility provides F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. With highly qualified teachers, modern security systems, and comprehensive curriculum focusing on literacy, STEM, and social development, this center serves as a regional destination for quality early education. The school maintains excellent parent satisfaction ratings and strong safety records.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Sterling, KS:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Sterling, KS, and are there any financial assistance options?
In Sterling, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $150 to $300, depending on the program's schedule and affiliation (e.g., church-based, private, or public). For financial assistance, families should inquire directly with individual preschools about potential scholarships and also check eligibility for the Kansas Child Care Subsidy program through the Kansas Department for Children and Families.
What types of preschool programs are available in Sterling, and how do I choose?
Sterling offers a mix of programs, including part-day options at Sterling Early Childhood Center (part of USD 376), faith-based preschools, and private in-home daycare/preschool settings. Your choice should depend on your schedule, educational philosophy preference (like play-based or more structured), and whether you prioritize a public school setting for easier transition to kindergarten.
When is the enrollment period for preschools in Sterling, and what documents are needed?
Enrollment for the public Sterling Early Childhood Center typically opens in the spring for the following fall, with specific dates announced by USD 376. For private and faith-based programs, timelines vary, so contact them directly in winter or early spring. Commonly required documents include your child's birth certificate, immunization records, and proof of residency in the Sterling area.
How can I assess the quality and safety of a preschool in Sterling?
First, verify the preschool is licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), which sets health, safety, and staff training standards. Schedule a visit to observe classroom interactions, check the safety of the facilities, and ask about staff-to-child ratios and emergency procedures. Local parent recommendations can also provide valuable insights.
Are there preschools in Sterling that offer flexible hours or care for working parents?
While many Sterling preschools are traditional part-day programs, some in-home daycare providers and private centers may offer extended hours or full-day care to accommodate working parents. It's important to inquire directly about specific operating hours, as options are more limited than in larger cities, and waiting lists may apply for the most flexible schedules.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Kansas or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.