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The Best Preschools in Upperco, MD

Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Upperco. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.

3 Quality Preschools
4.7 Average Rating

The Goddard School of Hampstead

Goddard Systems, Inc.

4.8/ 5.0
15 years experience

The Goddard School in Hampstead is a highly-regarded early childhood education center serving the Upperco area with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, including keypad entry and comprehensive monitoring. Their degreed teachers implement a play-based curriculum that focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social development. The school maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and has received consistent high marks for cleanliness, communication, and developmental progress tracking.

Programs Offered:

Infant CareToddler ProgramPreschoolPre-KKindergarten ReadinessSummer Camp
4401 Black Rock Road, Hampstead, MD 21074

The Learning Center at Westminster

Community Integrated Services

4.7/ 5.0
12 years experience

The Learning Center provides exceptional early childhood education with a strong focus on inclusive learning environments. Serving Upperco families, this facility employs certified early childhood educators and specialists who create individualized learning plans. The curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development, pre-literacy skills, and kindergarten readiness through structured play and hands-on activities. The center is noted for its excellent safety record, nutritious meal program, and strong parent-teacher communication. Their integrated approach supports children with diverse learning needs in an inclusive setting.

Programs Offered:

Early InterventionPreschool ProgramSpecial Needs ServicesBefore/After School CareSummer Program
25 Center Street, Westminster, MD 21157

Children's Learning Center

Independent

4.6/ 5.0
18 years experience

Children's Learning Center in Westminster has built an outstanding reputation for providing quality early childhood education to Carroll County families, including those in Upperco. The center features a play-based learning environment with structured academic components that prepare children for kindergarten success. Their experienced teaching staff focuses on developing the whole child through literacy-rich activities, math concepts, science exploration, and creative arts. The facility includes secure outdoor play areas and maintains excellent health and safety protocols. Parents consistently praise the warm, nurturing environment and the visible developmental progress children make.

Programs Offered:

Full-Day PreschoolPart-Time ProgramsEarly Drop-off/Late Pick-upEnrichment ClassesOutdoor Education
25 South Court Street, Westminster, MD 21157

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about preschools in Upperco, MD:

What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Upperco, MD?

In Upperco and the surrounding northern Baltimore County area, preschool tuition can range significantly. You can expect to pay approximately $150 to $350 per week, depending on factors like program length (half-day vs. full-day), the school's curriculum (e.g., Montessori, play-based), and whether it's a church-affiliated or private center. It's advisable to directly contact schools for their current rates and inquire about any available sibling discounts or scholarship opportunities.

How can I assess the quality and safety of a preschool in Upperco?

First, verify that the preschool is licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), which sets health, safety, and staff qualification standards. You can check compliance history online via the MSDE Office of Child Care website. During visits, ask about staff-to-child ratios, teacher qualifications, and safety protocols specific to their rural/suburban setting, such as drop-off/pickup procedures on potentially busy roads like MD-30 or MD-97.

What types of preschool programs are available in the Upperco area?

Upperco offers a mix of options, including home-based family child care, church-run preschools (often part-day), and private centers. Given its location, many families also consider programs in nearby Hampstead, Finksburg, or Westminster, which may offer more specialized curricula like Montessori or nature-based programs that leverage the area's rural environment. Local community centers and the Baltimore County Public Library's North County branch often have resources and listings.

When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Upperco?

Due to limited slots in this less densely populated area, it's recommended to begin your search 12-18 months before your desired start date. Many popular programs, especially those affiliated with churches or highly-rated private centers, have application deadlines or open enrollment periods in the winter (January-March) for the following fall. Contacting schools in the early spring is a good rule of thumb to understand their specific timeline.

Are there any public pre-K options for 4-year-olds in Upperco?

Upperco is served by Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS). The district offers a limited number of free pre-K seats for income-eligible 4-year-olds at designated elementary schools, such as Hampstead Elementary or Sandymount Elementary, which serve the area. Eligibility is based on family income, and applications are typically accepted in the spring. For families who do not qualify, BCPS does not currently offer universal public pre-K, so private options are the primary alternative.

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