The Best Preschools in Lexington, MA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Lexington. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Lexington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lexington is a highly-regarded early childhood education center offering play-based learning with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains low student-teacher ratios. The program emphasizes STEAM learning, language development, and social-emotional growth through structured play and hands-on activities.
Programs Offered:
Lexington Montessori School
Lexington Montessori School, Inc.
Lexington Montessori School is an AMI-recognized Montessori program offering authentic Montessori education in a carefully prepared environment. The school features certified Montessori teachers with specialized training and maintains small class sizes. The curriculum emphasizes independence, practical life skills, sensorial development, and individualized learning progression. The facility includes natural lighting, child-sized furniture, and extensive Montessori materials. Safety protocols include secure entry systems and comprehensive staff background checks.
Programs Offered:
Bright Horizons at Burlington
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Burlington serves families throughout the Lexington area with its World at Their Fingers® curriculum that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. The center features NAEYC accreditation and employs degreed teachers with ongoing professional development. Safety features include secure building access, comprehensive emergency protocols, and health screening procedures. The program emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts through project-based learning and intentional teaching practices.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Lexington, MA:
What is the average cost of preschool in Lexington, MA, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
Full-day preschool programs in Lexington typically range from $1,200 to $2,000+ per month, with part-time options being proportionally less. The Lexington Public Schools system offers integrated preschool programs with tuition on a sliding scale based on family income, and some private centers may offer sibling discounts. It's also worth exploring the Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA) through your employer to use pre-tax dollars for eligible expenses.
How do Lexington's public integrated preschool programs work, and how can my child enroll?
The Lexington Public Schools' Integrated Preschool Program blends typically developing children with those who have identified special needs in an inclusive setting. Enrollment for the limited number of "peer model" slots for typically developing children is done via a lottery system, with applications typically due in early spring for the following fall. You must be a Lexington resident, and your child must be age-eligible (3 or 4 by September 1st) and toilet-trained.
What should I look for to ensure a preschool in Lexington is high-quality and licensed?
First, verify the program is licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), which sets health, safety, and staff qualification standards. Look for accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or a high rating in the state's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). In Lexington, many parents also value programs with strong outdoor play components and educators trained in social-emotional learning curricula.
Are there preschools in Lexington that offer specific educational philosophies, like Montessori or Reggio Emilia?
Yes, Lexington has several private preschools offering distinct pedagogical approaches, including Montessori, Reggio Emilia-inspired, and play-based programs. These are typically private centers or schools, so you will need to research, visit, and apply directly to each. Given the high demand, it's advisable to begin your search and schedule tours at least a year before your desired start date.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and waitlist situations for Lexington preschools?
For most private preschools in Lexington, the main enrollment cycle begins in January or February for the following September, with many popular programs having application deadlines in early winter. It is common for top-rated programs to have significant waitlists. For the public integrated preschool lottery, the application deadline is usually in March. Starting your research and visits in the fall prior to the year your child will attend is highly recommended.
Nearby Cities
Explore preschools in cities near Lexington:
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Massachusetts or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.