The Best Preschools in Shady Side, MD
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Shady Side. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Edgewater
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Edgewater is a highly-rated early learning center known for its play-based F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum, which emphasizes social, emotional, and academic development. With a strong focus on safety, including secure facilities and rigorous background checks for staff, it features highly qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education. Parent satisfaction is high due to its structured daily routines, low student-to-teacher ratios, and regular communication through a dedicated app. The school serves families in Shady Side and surrounding areas, offering programs for infants through pre-K, along with enrichment activities like music and art.
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KinderCare at Annapolis
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Annapolis provides a comprehensive early childhood education with a balanced curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social skills. It maintains high safety standards, including keypad entry systems and trained staff in CPR and first aid. The center is praised for its experienced educators and inclusive environment, catering to children from infancy through school age. Parent reviews highlight its engaging activities, strong communication, and flexibility, making it a trusted option for families in Shady Side and the broader Anne Arundel County area.
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The Learning Experience - Annapolis
The Learning Experience Systems, Inc.
The Learning Experience - Annapolis offers a proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that combines academic rigor with play-based learning to foster cognitive and social development. Known for its emphasis on safety, with secure facilities and strict hygiene protocols, it employs certified teachers and maintains low child-to-staff ratios. The center receives strong parent feedback for its structured environment, enrichment programs like yoga and music, and focus on school readiness. It serves the Shady Side community with flexible scheduling and a nurturing atmosphere for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Shady Side, MD:
What is the average cost of preschool in Shady Side, MD, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
Full-time preschool programs in Shady Side typically range from $800 to $1,200 per month. For financial assistance, parents can explore the Maryland State Department of Education's Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program, which is income-based. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to inquire directly.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Shady Side?
All licensed childcare providers in Maryland are regulated by the Office of Child Care (OCC). You can search for a specific Shady Side preschool's license status, inspection reports, and any compliance history on the Maryland EXCELS website, which also rates programs on quality standards. Visiting in person and asking about staff qualifications and curriculum is also crucial.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and waitlist situations for Shady Side preschools?
Due to high demand in this tight-knit community, many preschools in the Shady Side area begin their enrollment processes in January or February for the following fall semester. It's common for popular programs to have waitlists, so initiating inquiries and tours 6-12 months in advance is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Are there preschools in Shady Side that offer unique programs suited to its coastal environment?
Yes, several preschools in the Shady Side area incorporate nature-based and environmental learning into their curriculum, taking advantage of the Chesapeake Bay location. You may find programs with outdoor classrooms, lessons on local wildlife and waterways, and activities that emphasize outdoor play and exploration, which is a distinctive feature of early education here.
What transportation options are available for preschools in Shady Side, given its more rural peninsula location?
Most preschools in Shady Side do not provide bus transportation due to the spread-out, residential nature of the area. Parents should plan for personal drop-off and pick-up. Carpooling with other local families is a common and practical solution to manage logistics and build community connections.
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