The Best Preschools in Oxford, ME
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Oxford. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Little Learners Child Development Center
Independent
Little Learners Child Development Center is a highly-regarded local preschool offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center features a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities. Their experienced teaching staff maintains low student-teacher ratios, and the facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern learning materials. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment and strong communication from teachers.
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Creative Kids Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
Located just minutes from Oxford in South Paris, Creative Kids provides a well-rounded early education program emphasizing creativity and hands-on learning. The curriculum balances academic foundations with arts, music, and physical development activities. The center maintains state licensing compliance with excellent safety records and employs qualified early childhood educators. Their kindergarten readiness program is particularly praised by local elementary school teachers for preparing children academically and socially.
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Kiddie Academy of Auburn
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
As part of the nationally recognized Kiddie Academy franchise, this Auburn location serves families in the Oxford area with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum. The program focuses on character development, literacy, mathematics, and science through structured learning centers and hands-on activities. The facility features secure access, modern classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Parents appreciate the consistent curriculum implementation and professional staff with ongoing training in early childhood education best practices.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Oxford, ME:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Oxford, Maine?
In Oxford and the surrounding Oxford County area, preschool costs can vary widely. Community-based or church-affiliated programs may range from $120-$200 per week, while private centers with extended hours often charge $180-$250 weekly. It's important to inquire about Maine's Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP) eligibility, as many local families qualify for financial assistance to offset these costs.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Oxford?
All licensed preschools in Maine are regulated by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). You can verify a program's license and review any compliance history on the Maine DHHS website. Additionally, many quality programs in the Oxford area participate in Maine's Quality for ME rating system, which is a voluntary star-rated program assessing learning environment, professional development, and family engagement.
What are the enrollment timelines and age requirements for Oxford preschools?
Most preschools in Oxford follow a traditional school year (September to June) and have enrollment open in the early spring, with some offering rolling admission if spaces remain. The typical age requirement is for children to be 3 or 4 years old by October 15th of the enrollment year, aligning with Maine's public school cutoff. For year-round childcare centers, enrollment may be available anytime, but waiting lists are common, so early inquiry is recommended.
Are there specific program philosophies or types common in Oxford preschools?
Oxford preschools offer a mix of approaches. You'll find play-based programs that align with Maine's Early Learning and Development Standards, as well as more structured academic readiness curricula. Given the rural nature of the area, many programs incorporate nature-based learning and outdoor activities, taking advantage of the local environment. It's best to visit and observe to see which philosophy matches your child's needs.
What transportation options are available for preschools in Oxford, ME?
Most private preschools in Oxford do not provide transportation; parents are typically responsible for drop-off and pick-up. However, some preschool programs integrated within the Oxford Hills School District (MSAD 17) may offer limited busing for their pre-K offerings. It's a critical question to ask during your search, and carpooling with other local families is a common solution in the community.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Maine or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.