The Best Preschools in Fort Washington, MD
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Fort Washington. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Fort Washington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Fort Washington is a highly-regarded early childhood education center offering play-based learning with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. Their curriculum focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression with qualified teachers implementing age-appropriate lesson plans. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean environment, and comprehensive educational approach that prepares children for kindergarten.
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Kiddie Academy of Fort Washington
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Fort Washington provides comprehensive educational child care with their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The academy features purpose-built learning environments, secure facilities, and technology-enhanced classrooms. Their program emphasizes literacy, STEM exploration, and social-emotional learning through structured activities and guided play. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators, receiving excellent feedback for their communication with parents and child progress tracking.
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Bright Horizons at National Harbor
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at National Harbor serves the Fort Washington area with their World at Their Fingertips curriculum that combines emergent learning with structured academic preparation. Located just minutes from Fort Washington, this NAEYC-accredited center features modern learning spaces, outdoor playgrounds, and enhanced security systems. The program emphasizes language development, mathematical thinking, and scientific exploration through hands-on learning experiences. With highly qualified teachers and strong parent partnerships, this facility consistently receives praise for its educational quality and nurturing environment that supports whole-child development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Fort Washington, MD:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Fort Washington, MD, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Fort Washington, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $800 to $1,500, depending on the program's hours, curriculum, and facilities. Many local centers offer sibling discounts, and some participate in the Maryland Child Care Scholarship program, which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income. It's also worth checking with individual schools about potential sliding scale fees or private scholarships.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Fort Washington?
All licensed childcare programs in Fort Washington are regulated by the Maryland State Department of Education's Office of Child Care. You can search for a specific program's license status, inspection reports, and any compliance history on the MSDE website. Additionally, many high-quality programs in the area pursue accreditation from organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which signifies a higher standard of care and education.
What are the common enrollment timelines and age requirements for preschools in Fort Washington?
Most preschools in Fort Washington follow a traditional school year schedule (September to June) and begin their enrollment processes in the winter or early spring, often with open houses from January to March. Children are typically eligible for preschool programs if they are 3 or 4 years old by September 1st, though some centers may offer "Pre-Preschool" classes for younger toddlers. Due to high demand, especially for sought-after programs, early inquiry and application are strongly recommended.
What types of preschool programs are most common in the Fort Washington area?
Fort Washington offers a diverse mix of preschool options, including faith-based programs (often associated with local churches), Montessori schools, play-based learning centers, and academic preparatory programs. Many parents also choose programs located within community centers or those that offer extended hours to accommodate commutes to nearby Washington, D.C., or military families from Joint Base Andrews.
What should I look for regarding safety and facilities when touring a preschool in Fort Washington?
Key safety features include secure, controlled access to the building, fenced and age-appropriate outdoor play areas, and clear visibility in classrooms. Inquire about staff-to-child ratios (Maryland state standards are a good baseline), staff background checks, and emergency procedures for events like severe weather. Given the area's suburban setting, also assess the traffic flow and parking during drop-off and pick-up times for safety and convenience.
Nearby Cities
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