The Best Preschools in Harwood, MD
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Harwood. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Annapolis
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Annapolis is a highly-regarded early childhood education center serving the Harwood area with a play-based learning approach grounded in developmental guidelines. It features a F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that promotes social, emotional, and academic growth through hands-on activities. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios, employs degreed and certified educators, and emphasizes safety with secured access, daily health checks, and comprehensive background checks. Parents consistently praise its engaging curriculum, clean facilities, and strong communication, contributing to its excellent reputation in Anne Arundel County.
Programs Offered:
KinderCare at Annapolis
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Annapolis offers a nationally recognized curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social skills, serving families in Harwood and surrounding communities. The center is known for its balanced approach to education, incorporating structured learning with creative play, and emphasizes safety through strict protocols, including CPR-trained staff and secure entry systems. With experienced teachers and a focus on individualized attention, it has built a strong track record of parent satisfaction, particularly for its transparent communication and readiness programs for kindergarten.
Programs Offered:
St. Anne's Day School
St. Anne's Parish
St. Anne's Day School provides a nurturing, faith-based early learning environment with a focus on whole-child development, serving the Harwood area through its location in historic Annapolis. The curriculum blends academic foundations with social-emotional learning, using themes like nature exploration and community engagement to foster curiosity. Safety is prioritized with small class sizes, trained staff, and a secure campus. Highly rated for its dedicated teachers and inclusive atmosphere, the school is praised by parents for its strong sense of community and effective preparation for elementary school.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Harwood, MD:
What is the average cost of preschool in Harwood, MD, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Harwood and the surrounding Anne Arundel County area, preschool tuition typically ranges from $800 to $1,200 per month for full-day programs. For financial assistance, parents can explore the Maryland State Department of Education's Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program, which is income-based, and also inquire directly with local preschools about potential sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
How do I verify the licensing and quality of a preschool in Harwood?
All licensed childcare centers in Maryland, including Harwood, are regulated by the Maryland State Department of Education's Office of Child Care. You can search for a specific preschool's licensing status, inspection reports, and any compliance history through the official MSDE Child Care Search website. This is a critical first step to ensure regulatory and safety standards are met.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and waitlist situations for Harwood preschools?
Many sought-after preschools in the Harwood area begin their enrollment processes for the fall semester as early as January or February. Due to high demand, it's common for popular programs to have waitlists, so initiating visits and applications the winter before your desired start date is highly recommended. Some programs may offer mid-year enrollment if spots become available.
Are there preschools in Harwood that offer specific educational approaches, like Montessori or play-based learning?
Yes, while Harwood itself is a smaller community, the broader Southern Anne Arundel County region offers a variety of approaches. You can find traditional, play-based, faith-based, and Montessori-inspired programs. Researching schools in nearby towns like Davidsonville, Edgewater, or Annapolis will provide the widest selection of pedagogical philosophies.
What should I look for regarding safety and outdoor play at a Harwood preschool?
Prioritize preschools with secure, single points of entry and clear sign-in/sign-out procedures. Given Harwood's semi-rural setting, inspect the outdoor play area for safe, age-appropriate equipment and secure fencing. Ask about their protocols for severe weather, given Maryland's climate, and how they handle outdoor time during very hot or cold days.
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