The Best Preschools in Reading, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Reading. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Worthington Christian School Preschool
Worthington Christian School
Worthington Christian School Preschool provides a Christ-centered educational environment focused on academic readiness and character development. With small class sizes and state-licensed teachers, the program emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social skills through a structured curriculum. Safety is prioritized with secure facilities and background-checked staff. Parent reviews highlight high satisfaction with the nurturing atmosphere, strong community involvement, and effective preparation for kindergarten.
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KinderCare Learning Center - Worthington
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Worthington offers a research-based curriculum designed to foster early learning in a safe and engaging environment. The center features secure access, trained educators, and programs that include phonics, math, and social-emotional development. With a focus on individualized learning and parent communication, it has strong ratings for educational quality and safety. Reviews commend the center's professional staff, interactive activities, and reliable care for children in the Reading area.
Programs Offered:
St. Mary's School Preschool
St. Mary's Catholic Church
St. Mary's School Preschool integrates faith-based learning with a comprehensive early education curriculum, focusing on literacy, math, and social skills in a supportive environment. The program employs certified teachers and maintains high safety standards with monitored facilities. Parent feedback emphasizes satisfaction with the school's community-oriented approach, individualized attention, and effective kindergarten preparation. It serves families in Reading and surrounding areas with a reputation for consistency and quality care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Reading, MN:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Reading, MN, and are there any local financial assistance options?
In Reading and the surrounding rural area, preschool costs can vary widely, typically ranging from $150 to $300 per week depending on the program's schedule and structure. For financial assistance, families should inquire directly with preschools about potential sliding scale fees and also apply for Minnesota's Early Learning Scholarship program, which is available to income-eligible families statewide to help cover costs at participating providers.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Reading, MN?
All licensed preschools in Minnesota are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a program's license and review any past licensing violations through the Minnesota DHS Licensing Information Lookup website. Additionally, many high-quality programs in the region participate in Minnesota's Parent Aware Star Ratings, a voluntary quality rating system; a 4-star rating is the highest.
What are the common preschool schedule options available for families in a small town like Reading?
Given Reading's small, rural community, preschool schedules often include part-time options such as morning or afternoon sessions, 2-3 days per week (e.g., Tuesday/Thursday or Monday/Wednesday/Friday). Full-day, full-week programs are less common locally, so some families may consider providers in nearby larger towns like Owatonna or Albert Lea for more extensive childcare needs.
Are there any unique or nature-based preschool programs available in the Reading area?
Due to its rural setting, some preschools and in-home providers in the Reading area may incorporate nature and farm-based learning into their curriculum. While there may not be a formally designated "forest preschool," it's worthwhile to ask local providers about their outdoor play philosophy and access to natural spaces, as this is a common strength of programs in this region.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Reading, MN, given limited local options?
Due to the limited number of preschool slots in a small community, it is advisable to begin your search and inquiry process at least 12-18 months before your desired start date, especially if you need care for a toddler transitioning to preschool. Many local programs have waiting lists, and open enrollment for the following school year often begins in the winter or early spring.
Nearby Cities
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