The Best Preschools in Arlington, MA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Arlington. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Bright Horizons at Arlington
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Arlington offers a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center maintains high safety standards with secure facilities, low student-teacher ratios, and CPR-certified staff. Parents consistently praise the qualified educators, engaging learning environments, and strong communication. The program emphasizes school readiness through play-based and structured activities, with a track record of high parent satisfaction and accreditation from recognized early education organizations.
Programs Offered:
Kindercare Learning Center on Massachusetts Avenue
Kindercare Education
Kindercare provides a balanced curriculum that integrates phonics, math, science, and creative arts to support academic and social development. The center emphasizes safety with secure entry systems, regular drills, and trained staff. Teachers are experienced and often hold early childhood credentials. Parents value the structured daily routines, progress reports, and inclusive environment that caters to diverse learning needs, contributing to strong community reviews and reliability.
Programs Offered:
The Goddard School of Arlington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School utilizes the F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program, promoting literacy, math, science, and arts through play-based learning. The center focuses on individualized development with low ratios and certified teachers. Safety protocols include secure facilities and health screenings. High parent satisfaction stems from the school's emphasis on creativity, communication, and milestone achievements, supported by a nurturing environment and ongoing family engagement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Arlington, MA:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Arlington, MA, and are there financial assistance options?
Full-day preschool programs in Arlington typically range from $1,200 to $2,200 per month, with part-time options being proportionally less. The Arlington Public Schools system offers free, integrated preschool programs for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds, and many private centers offer sliding scale tuition or scholarships. Additionally, Massachusetts state subsidies through programs like Child Care Vouchers (CCDF) can help qualifying families.
How do Arlington Public Schools (APS) preschool programs work, and how can my child enroll?
APS offers integrated preschool classrooms that include both typically developing peers and children with identified special needs, located at the Thompson and Stratton Elementary Schools. Enrollment is through a lottery system, with applications typically due in early spring for the following fall; priority is given to Arlington residents and children with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). You can find the application and exact dates on the Arlington Public Schools Early Childhood page.
What should I look for to ensure a preschool is high-quality and licensed in Arlington?
First, verify the program is licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), which you can do through their online search tool. Look for programs with EEC Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) levels, with Level 3 or 4 indicating higher quality. In Arlington, many highly-regarded preschools also pursue accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), a strong indicator of excellence.
Are there preschools in Arlington that offer specific educational philosophies, like Montessori or Reggio Emilia?
Yes, Arlington has several preschools offering distinct educational approaches. You can find Montessori programs, such as the Montessori School of Arlington, and programs inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, which emphasize project-based learning. Many local cooperative preschools also offer play-based curricula with strong parent involvement, providing a variety of choices to match your child's learning style.
What are the key factors regarding location and schedule when choosing an Arlington preschool?
Consider proximity to your home or workplace, as Arlington traffic, especially near major routes like Massachusetts Avenue, can impact drop-off and pick-up times. Also, carefully match the preschool's schedule (e.g., 8:30 am - 12:30 pm vs. 9 am - 1 pm) with your family's needs, as extended "wrap-around" care options can vary significantly between centers and may be essential for full-time working parents.
Nearby Cities
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