The Best Preschools in Washington, ME
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Washington. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
KinderCare Learning Center - Rockland
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare Rockland is a nationally accredited early learning center serving the Mid-Coast region, including Washington. It offers a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, and social-emotional development, with qualified teachers and strong safety protocols. Parents praise its structured environment and engaging activities that prepare children for kindergarten.
Programs Offered:
The Children's Place
Independent non-profit
The Children's Place is a licensed, community-based center known for its nurturing approach and play-based learning. It serves families in Washington and surrounding areas, emphasizing individual attention, outdoor exploration, and school readiness. With low teacher-to-child ratios and a focus on safety, it has high parent satisfaction for its warm, inclusive environment.
Programs Offered:
Mid-Coast Montessori School
Independent non-profit
Mid-Coast Montessori provides authentic Montessori education for children ages 3-6, serving the Washington area with a focus on hands-on learning, independence, and holistic development. The school is praised for its experienced guides, peaceful classroom environments, and strong community ties, ensuring children build foundational skills in a supportive setting.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Washington, ME:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Washington, ME, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Washington and the surrounding Knox County area, preschool costs can range from approximately $150 to $250 per week, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. For financial assistance, Maine's Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP) is available for eligible families, and some local providers may offer sliding scale fees. It's also worth inquiring directly with programs about potential sibling discounts or scholarship opportunities.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Washington, ME?
All licensed childcare programs in Maine, including preschools, are regulated by the state's Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). You can search for a provider's licensing status, inspection reports, and any compliance history on the official Maine DHHS website. Additionally, looking for programs that are nationally accredited (like NAEYC) or participate in Maine's Quality for ME rating system provides an extra layer of quality assurance.
What types of preschool programs are available in a small town like Washington, ME?
Given Washington's rural setting, options often include home-based family childcare programs, part-day nursery school models often affiliated with local churches or community centers, and sometimes public Pre-K through the local school district (MSAD 40/RSU 40). Many families also consider programs in nearby larger towns like Waldoboro or Union, which may offer Montessori, nature-based, or more traditional center-based preschools.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in this area, as waitlists can be long?
Due to limited slots in rural communities, it is highly recommended to begin your search and inquiry process at least 12-18 months before your desired start date, especially for popular programs or those with limited annual intake. For programs starting in the fall, many begin their enrollment or waitlist processes the preceding winter (January-March). Contacting providers directly in the early spring is a good rule of thumb.
Are there any unique considerations for preschools in Washington, ME, related to its rural environment?
Yes, transportation is a key factor, as most preschools do not provide bus service, requiring family drop-off/pickup. Also, many local programs strongly emphasize outdoor and nature-based learning, taking advantage of the surrounding woods, fields, and seasons—be prepared for a "play-outside-in-all-weather" approach. Finally, the close-knit community means word-of-mouth recommendations are incredibly valuable, so talking to other local parents is a great resource.
Nearby Cities
Explore preschools in cities near Washington:
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Maine or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.