The Best Preschools in Preston, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Preston. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Preston Busy Bees Preschool
Preston Busy Bees
Preston Busy Bees is a highly-regarded local preschool known for its nurturing environment and comprehensive early childhood education program. The facility focuses on play-based learning while incorporating structured curriculum elements to prepare children for kindergarten. With small class sizes and experienced educators, they emphasize social-emotional development, early literacy, and foundational math skills. Parents consistently praise the dedicated teachers and the warm, family-oriented atmosphere.
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Harmony Area Early Childhood Family Education
Harmony Public Schools
Located just 10 miles from Preston in Harmony, this early childhood program serves families throughout Fillmore County. As part of the Harmony Public School District, they offer structured preschool curriculum with certified early childhood educators. The program emphasizes school readiness through developmentally appropriate activities, social skills building, and family involvement. Their comprehensive approach includes regular developmental assessments and strong parent education components.
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Rochester Montessori School
Rochester Montessori
While located in Rochester (approximately 30 minutes from Preston), this highly-rated Montessori school serves families throughout southeastern Minnesota. The preschool program follows authentic Montessori methods with certified Montessori teachers and carefully prepared learning environments. They focus on individualized learning, practical life skills, sensorial development, and fostering independence. The school maintains excellent teacher-to-student ratios and has a strong reputation for academic preparation and character development. Many families from surrounding communities choose this option for its proven educational approach and outstanding facilities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Preston, MN:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Preston, MN?
In Preston, preschool costs vary by program type. Community-based or church-affiliated preschools may range from $100-$200 per month, while private or full-day childcare-integrated programs can be higher. It's important to inquire directly with providers like the Preston Public School Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) or local daycare centers, as many offer sliding scale fees or scholarships based on family income.
How do I find licensed and quality-rated preschools in Preston?
Start by checking the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) licensing lookup tool to verify a program's license and review any past violations. For quality, look for programs participating in Minnesota's Parent Aware star ratings; the local school district or the Fillmore County Family Services Collaborative can also provide referrals to highly-regarded programs in the Preston area.
What are the enrollment timelines and age requirements for Preston preschools?
Many preschools in Preston, including the public school ECFE programs, begin enrollment in early spring for the following fall semester. Most programs require children to be 3 or 4 years old by September 1st. Due to limited slots, especially in smaller community programs, contacting providers by February or March is highly recommended to secure a spot.
What types of preschool curriculum or philosophies are available in Preston?
Preston offers a mix of play-based and more structured school-readiness approaches. The Preston Public School ECFE emphasizes social skills and kindergarten preparation aligned with state standards, while local in-home or church-based preschools may have a stronger focus on faith-based learning or developmental play. Visiting and asking about daily schedules is the best way to understand each program's focus.
Are there transportation options for preschool students in Preston?
Transportation is typically not provided for community-based preschools in Preston. However, the Preston Public School District may offer busing for its specific early childhood special education programs. For most families, arranging personal transportation or carpooling with other local parents is the standard expectation for getting children to and from preschool.
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