The Best Preschools in Stonington, ME
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Stonington. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Island Community Center
Island Community Center
The Island Community Center operates a highly-regarded early childhood program serving the Deer Isle-Stonington area. This community-based facility provides a nurturing environment with developmentally appropriate curriculum focused on social-emotional growth, early literacy, and hands-on learning experiences. The center serves as a vital educational hub for island families, offering structured preschool programming along with enrichment activities. Their experienced educators create personalized learning experiences in a safe, inclusive environment that celebrates the unique coastal community.
Programs Offered:
Deer Isle-Stonington Elementary School Preschool Program
Deer Isle-Stonington CSD
The Deer Isle-Stonington Elementary School operates a comprehensive public preschool program serving the broader peninsula community. This state-certified program features certified early childhood educators and follows Maine's early learning standards. The program emphasizes school readiness through play-based learning, social development, and early academic foundations. With small class sizes and individualized attention, children benefit from a structured yet flexible curriculum that prepares them for kindergarten success. The program integrates with community resources and offers inclusive educational opportunities.
Programs Offered:
George Stevens Academy Early Childhood Program
George Stevens Academy
Located in nearby Blue Hill, George Stevens Academy offers an exceptional early childhood program that serves families throughout the Blue Hill Peninsula region, including Stonington. The program combines academic preparation with creative expression and social development in a supportive learning environment. Featuring experienced early childhood educators and modern facilities, the program emphasizes hands-on learning, outdoor education, and individualized instruction. Their comprehensive approach includes literacy development, STEM exploration, and arts integration, making it a popular choice for families seeking high-quality early education in the region.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Stonington, ME:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Stonington, ME, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
Tuition for preschool programs in Stonington typically ranges from $150 to $250 per week, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. Maine offers state-funded Pre-K in some public school districts, so check with the Stonington-based CSD 13 (Deer Isle-Stonington Elementary School) for eligibility. Additionally, local families may qualify for assistance through Maine's Child Care Subsidy Program.
How do I evaluate the quality and licensing of a preschool in Stonington?
All licensed preschools in Maine, including those in Stonington, are regulated by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). You can verify a program's license and review any compliance history online through the state's licensing website. For a quality indicator, ask if the program is voluntarily rated through Maine's Quality for ME rating system, which assesses learning environments and teacher qualifications.
What are the enrollment timelines and age requirements for preschools in Stonington?
Enrollment timelines vary, but many programs in the Deer Isle-Stonington area begin registration in early spring for the following fall semester. For public Pre-K at Deer Isle-Stonington Elementary, the cutoff age is typically 4 years old by October 15th. Private preschools may accept children as young as 2.5 or 3, so it's crucial to contact programs directly well in advance due to limited slots in this small community.
Given Stonington's remote coastal location, what types of preschool programs are available?
Options include the public Pre-K program at Deer Isle-Stonington Elementary School, which provides a structured, school-based setting. There are also smaller, private in-home or center-based programs that often emphasize nature-based and play-based learning, leveraging the unique island environment. Some families may also consider cooperative models or family childcare providers licensed for preschool-age children.
How do preschools in Stonington handle safety, particularly given the town's seasonal tourism and waterfront setting?
Licensed preschools must have comprehensive safety plans covering emergencies, including those specific to coastal communities. This includes protocols for severe weather, waterfront safety education if near the harbor, and secure facility access. Be sure to ask about staff-to-child ratios, pick-up/drop-off procedures, and how they manage the increased summer traffic and visitors in the town.
Nearby Cities
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