The Best Preschools in Chestertown, MD
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Chestertown. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
KinderCare at Chestertown
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare at Chestertown is a nationally accredited early learning center offering a comprehensive, play-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The facility maintains high safety standards with secured access and trained staff, and features qualified teachers with backgrounds in early childhood education. Parent satisfaction is high due to consistent communication and a nurturing environment, with programs designed for children from infancy through school age, including enrichment activities like music and physical education.
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The Goddard School of Easton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Easton provides a premier early childhood education with its F.L.E.X.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), focusing on academic readiness, creativity, and social skills through play-based and structured activities. The school boasts low student-teacher ratios, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong safety record with background-checked staff. Highly rated for parent satisfaction, it offers extended hours and enrichment programs in arts and technology, serving families in the Chestertown area with reliable transportation options.
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Chestertown Early Learning Center
Independent
Chestertown Early Learning Center is a locally owned and operated facility known for its holistic approach to early education, featuring a balanced curriculum that integrates Montessori-inspired methods with play-based learning. The center emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities, supported by experienced teachers with certifications in early childhood education. Safety is prioritized with secure environments and small class sizes, leading to high parent satisfaction and strong community ties. It serves children from ages 2 to 5 with flexible scheduling options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Chestertown, MD:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Chestertown, MD, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Chestertown, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $600 to $1,200, depending on the program's schedule (half-day vs. full-day) and philosophy. Local options like the Judy Center at Garnet Elementary School offer free or sliding-scale services for qualifying families, and many private centers participate in the Maryland Child Care Scholarship program. It's also worth inquiring directly with church-affiliated preschools, as they sometimes offer more affordable rates.
How can I assess the quality and licensing of preschools in Chestertown?
All licensed preschools in Maryland, including those in Chestertown, are regulated by the Maryland State Department of Education's Office of Child Care. You can look up a specific center's licensing history and any compliance reports online through the MSDE website. Additionally, visiting in person during operating hours to observe teacher-child interactions, classroom safety, and the overall environment is the best way to assess quality firsthand.
What are the main types of preschool programs available in Chestertown?
Chestertown offers a mix of preschool models, including play-based and academic-focused private centers, faith-based programs (often affiliated with local churches), and public Pre-K options through Kent County Public Schools for eligible 4-year-olds. The town also has cooperative preschools where parent involvement is encouraged, and nature-based programs that utilize the area's rural setting for outdoor learning.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Chestertown, given the small-town setting?
Due to limited slots in this smaller community, it is highly recommended to begin your search and inquiries at least 12-18 months before your desired start date, especially for the most popular programs. Many preschools in Chestertown have waiting lists, and enrollment periods for the following fall often begin in the preceding winter (January-February). Contacting programs directly for their specific timeline is crucial.
Are there preschools in Chestertown that accommodate the schedules of working parents?
Yes, several preschools in Chestertown offer extended care or full-day programs to support working families. When researching, be sure to ask specifically about operating hours, early drop-off, and late pick-up options, as these vary. Some centers may close earlier than standard business hours, so confirming the schedule that aligns with your work commute is an essential step in your selection process.
Nearby Cities
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