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The Best Preschools in Leslie, MI

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

3 Quality Preschools
4.7 Average Rating

Leslie Early Childhood Center

Leslie Public Schools

4.8/ 5.0
15 years experience

The Leslie Early Childhood Center is part of the Leslie Public School District and offers high-quality early childhood education programs including the state-funded Great Start Readiness Program. The center focuses on school readiness through developmentally appropriate practices, play-based learning, and comprehensive early childhood services. With certified early childhood educators and small class sizes, the program emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy foundations, and kindergarten readiness skills in a nurturing, safe environment.

Programs Offered:

Great Start Readiness ProgramPreschoolEarly Childhood Special EducationPlay-Based Learning
414 E Bellevue St, Leslie, MI 49251

Little Cubs Early Learning Center

Independent

4.7/ 5.0
12 years experience

Located in nearby Mason (approximately 10 miles from Leslie), Little Cubs Early Learning Center provides comprehensive early childhood education for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. The center features a structured curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development, including literacy activities, math concepts, science exploration, and creative arts. With highly qualified staff, secure facilities, and a focus on individualized learning, the center has earned strong parent satisfaction ratings for its engaging environment and commitment to child development.

Programs Offered:

Infant CareToddler ProgramPreschoolBefore/After School CareSummer Programs
132 N Cedar St, Mason, MI 48854

Little Learners Preschool

Williamston Community Schools

4.6/ 5.0
18 years experience

Williamston's Little Learners Preschool serves families throughout the region, including the Leslie area (approximately 15 miles away). As part of the highly-regarded Williamston Community Schools district, this program offers developmentally appropriate preschool experiences with certified early childhood teachers. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, social skills development, and kindergarten readiness through structured activities and play-based learning. The program maintains excellent safety standards, low student-teacher ratios, and strong parent communication systems.

Programs Offered:

Preschool ProgramsYoung FivesEarly Childhood Special EducationParent-Child Classes
3939 Vanneter Rd, Williamston, MI 48895

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about preschools in Leslie, MI:

What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Leslie, MI?

In Leslie, tuition can vary significantly based on program type. A licensed in-home preschool may range from $120-$180 per week, while center-based programs often cost $150-$250 weekly. It's important to inquire about the Leslie Area Schools' Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP), a state-funded preschool for eligible 4-year-olds, which is free for qualifying families.

How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Leslie?

All licensed childcare and preschool providers in Michigan are regulated by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). You can search for a provider's license status, view any violations, and see their star rating (1-5 stars) through the official LARA website. Additionally, visiting the facility and asking about staff qualifications and curriculum is highly recommended.

What are the main types of preschool options available within the Leslie area?

Families in Leslie typically have three main options: faith-based preschools (often affiliated with local churches), the public preschool program through Leslie Area Schools (including GSRP), and private, licensed home-based preschools. Each offers different schedules, philosophies, and environments, so identifying your priorities is key.

When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Leslie, and what is the typical enrollment process?

For a fall start, begin your search and tours the prior winter, as some popular programs have waiting lists. Enrollment for the Leslie Area Schools preschool program typically opens in early spring. The process usually involves submitting an application, providing proof of residency within the district, and your child's birth certificate and immunization records.

Are there preschools in Leslie that offer flexible schedules or part-time options for younger children?

Yes, many providers in Leslie offer part-time schedules, such as 2-3 half-days per week, which is common for 3-year-old programs. In-home preschools may offer the most scheduling flexibility. For 4-year-olds, the public school and many center-based programs often provide more structured, 4-5 day per week sessions to prepare for kindergarten.

Finding Your Village: A Guide to Preschool and Daycare Options in Leslie, Michigan

For parents in our close-knit Leslie community, the search for "preschool daycare near me" is about so much more than just finding a convenient location. It’s about discovering a nurturing extension of your family, a place where your little one can blossom during these crucial early years. We understand that entrusting someone with your child’s care and early education is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make. The good news is that right here in and around Leslie, Michigan, you have access to wonderful early childhood options that blend care with foundational learning.

The journey begins by clarifying your family's unique needs. Are you looking for a full-day daycare program that supports your work schedule, or a part-time preschool focused on school readiness? Many local programs beautifully blend both, offering consistent care within an educational framework. As you start your search, think about the daily rhythm you want for your child. Consider factors like the program’s educational philosophy—whether it’s play-based, Montessori-inspired, or follows a more structured curriculum. Don’t hesitate to ask about how a typical day unfolds, from circle time and creative arts to outdoor play on those sunny Michigan days.

One of the greatest advantages of searching in a community like ours is the ability to get genuine, firsthand insights. Talk to fellow parents at the Leslie Area Historical Society events or after school at Leslie Township Park. Personal recommendations are invaluable. When you’ve narrowed down a few possibilities, scheduling a visit is essential. A tour allows you to move beyond the website description and feel the atmosphere. Pay attention to the interactions between teachers and children. Are they engaged and warm? Is the environment clean, safe, and filled with stimulating, age-appropriate materials? Trust your instincts; you’ll likely feel a sense of rightness when you walk into the place that fits.

Remember to ask practical questions during your visits. Inquire about teacher qualifications and turnover, as consistency is key for young children. Understand their policies on communication, how they handle milestones and challenges, and what their approach is to nutrition and rest times. It’s also wise to discuss their protocols for health, safety, and inclement weather, ensuring you’re comfortable with all their procedures.

Finally, know that the best choice is one that aligns with your child’s personality and your family’s values. The right preschool or daycare in the Leslie area will feel like a partnership. It will be a place where your child is excited to go, where they make friends, explore new ideas, and build the confidence that serves as the cornerstone for all future learning. By taking the time to explore your local options thoughtfully, you’re not just finding childcare—you’re choosing a supportive community that will cheer your child on as they grow.

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