The Best Preschools in Ellicott City, MD
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Ellicott City. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Ellicott City
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Ellicott City offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. The facility features state-of-the-art classrooms, secure entry systems, and highly qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development, with additional enrichment programs in yoga, music, and Spanish. The school maintains excellent safety records and has earned high parent satisfaction ratings for its nurturing environment and comprehensive educational approach.
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Celebree School of Ellicott City
Celebree Learning Centers
Celebree School provides a well-rounded early education experience with their proprietary curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. The school features secure facilities with coded entry systems, certified teachers, and small class sizes. Their Seven Domains of Learning framework covers literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, physical development, social-emotional development, and creative expression. The center is known for its strong safety protocols, inclusive environment, and excellent teacher-to-student ratios that ensure individualized attention and high-quality early learning experiences.
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Primrose School of Ellicott City
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Ellicott City delivers the nationally recognized Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The school features modern, secure facilities with dedicated learning centers, outdoor play areas, and technology-enhanced classrooms. Their curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, mathematics, and STEAM concepts through hands-on learning experiences. The school maintains exceptional safety standards with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and rigorous health protocols. Parents consistently rate the school highly for its educational quality, caring environment, and strong communication between teachers and families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Ellicott City, MD:
What is the average cost of preschool in Ellicott City, MD, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Ellicott City, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,800, though costs can vary based on program type and hours. For financial assistance, parents can explore the Maryland Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program, which is income-based, and some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with individual preschools about any private scholarships they might administer.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Howard County?
All licensed preschools in Ellicott City are regulated by the Maryland State Department of Education's Office of Child Care. You can use their online "Check Child Care" search tool to view a provider's license status, inspection reports, and any compliance history. Additionally, many high-quality programs in the area pursue accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which signifies a higher standard of care and education.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and waitlist situations for Ellicott City preschools?
For a fall start, many popular preschools in Ellicott City begin their enrollment processes as early as January or February, with some having waitlists that form even earlier. It's highly recommended to start your research and schedule tours at least 9-12 months in advance. Due to high demand, especially for programs affiliated with sought-after elementary school districts, applying to multiple options is a common strategy for local families.
What types of preschool programs are most common in Ellicott City?
Ellicott City offers a diverse mix, including traditional part-day preschools, full-day childcare centers, faith-based programs (often in local churches), and Montessori schools. Many parents also value the highly-regarded pre-K programs offered through Howard County Public School System (HCPSS), which are free but have specific age and income eligibility requirements for 4-year-olds.
Are there specific considerations for preschool safety and preparedness in Ellicott City?
Given the area's history with severe flooding, it's prudent to ask preschools about their emergency preparedness plans, including evacuation routes and communication protocols for weather-related closures. Furthermore, you should inquire about staff-to-child ratios, background check procedures for all employees, and security measures for building access, which are all key components of a safe learning environment.
Nearby Cities
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