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The Best Preschools in Waterford, MS

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

3 Quality Preschools
4.7 Average Rating

First Baptist Church Preschool

First Baptist Church Oxford

4.8/ 5.0
15 years experience

First Baptist Church Preschool in nearby Oxford serves families throughout Lafayette County, including Waterford. This highly-rated Christian preschool offers a comprehensive early childhood program focused on developmental milestones, social skills, and kindergarten readiness. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-student ratios with qualified early childhood educators. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, structured curriculum, and strong emphasis on both academic and social-emotional development. The program operates with a play-based learning approach integrated with Christian values and character education.

Programs Offered:

Preschool ProgramEarly Childhood EducationChristian CurriculumKindergarten Readiness
800 Van Buren Ave, Oxford, MS 38655

Oxford University School

University of Mississippi

4.7/ 5.0
12 years experience

Oxford University School, affiliated with the University of Mississippi, serves as a laboratory school that provides exceptional early childhood education to families throughout the region, including Waterford. The preschool program emphasizes research-based teaching methods and developmentally appropriate practices. With highly qualified teachers and education specialists, the facility offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional learning. The program benefits from ongoing educational research and maintains outstanding safety standards with modern facilities and secure environments.

Programs Offered:

Early Childhood ProgramPreschool EducationDevelopmental CurriculumEnrichment Activities
319 University Ave, Oxford, MS 38655

Kiddie Kampus Learning Center

Independent

4.6/ 5.0
18 years experience

Kiddie Kampus Learning Center in Oxford has served families in Lafayette County and surrounding areas, including Waterford, for nearly two decades. This established early learning center provides a structured preschool program that focuses on literacy, numeracy, and social development. The facility maintains excellent safety records with secure access and trained staff. Parents consistently rate the center highly for its dedicated teachers, comprehensive curriculum, and nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten success. The program includes age-appropriate learning activities, creative arts, and physical development opportunities.

Programs Offered:

DaycarePreschool ProgramBefore/After School CareSummer ProgramsEarly Learning Curriculum
106-A Hwy 6 E, Oxford, MS 38655

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about preschools in Waterford, MS:

What is the typical cost of preschool in Waterford, MS, and are there any financial assistance programs available?

In Waterford, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $150 to $350, depending on the program's hours and structure. For financial assistance, families can apply for the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) Child Care Payment Program, which provides subsidies to eligible households. Additionally, some local churches and community centers may offer sliding-scale tuition based on income.

How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Waterford?

All licensed childcare centers in Mississippi, including Waterford, are regulated by the MDHS Division of Early Childhood Care and Development. You can verify a preschool's license and review any compliance history online through the MDHS Child Care Facility Search portal. It's also recommended to visit in person, ask about staff-to-child ratios, and check for accreditation from organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

What are the common preschool program schedules available in Waterford?

Preschools in Waterford typically offer part-time schedules (e.g., 3 half-days a week) or full-day programs to accommodate working parents. Many operate on a traditional school-year calendar from August to May, though some church-affiliated or private centers may offer year-round care. Given the rural nature of the area, it's important to confirm transportation options, as most programs do not provide bus service.

Are there any state-funded pre-K options available in Waterford, such as the Early Learning Collaboratives?

Waterford may have access to Mississippi's Early Learning Collaborative (ELC) pre-K programs, which are high-quality, state-funded classrooms often located within existing public schools or nonprofit centers. Availability is limited and based on state funding and local partnerships. Contact the Waterford School District office or the Mississippi Department of Education to inquire about specific ELC sites serving your area.

What should I look for regarding safety and preparedness at a Waterford preschool?

Ensure the preschool has a clear emergency plan for severe weather, which is critical in Mississippi, and that staff are trained in pediatric CPR and first aid. During your visit, check that the facility is secure (e.g., controlled access), clean, and has age-appropriate playground equipment with safe surfacing. Also, ask about their sick-child policy and immunization requirements to align with local health standards.

Finding a Nurturing Start: Exploring Christian Preschools in Waterford, Mississippi

For parents in Waterford and the surrounding areas, the search for the right preschool is about so much more than just finding a convenient location. It’s about finding a place where your child’s first educational experiences are wrapped in the same values and warmth they feel at home. If you’ve found yourself typing “christian preschools near me” into your search bar, you’re likely looking for an environment that nurtures both the mind and the spirit. Here in our close-knit Mississippi community, Christian preschools offer a beautiful foundation that many families cherish.

The cornerstone of a Christian preschool in Waterford is its integrated approach to learning. Yes, your child will engage in all the essential early learning activities—mastering their ABCs, exploring numbers through play, developing social skills during group time, and fostering creativity with arts and crafts. But these academics are gently woven together with simple prayers, age-appropriate Bible stories, and lessons on character traits like kindness, sharing, and honesty. This holistic model helps children understand that learning and faith are not separate parts of life, but interconnected. It’s an approach that builds confidence and a sense of belonging from a very young age.

As you begin your search, we recommend looking beyond just the proximity. Start by scheduling visits to a few local programs. When you walk through the doors, pay attention to the atmosphere. Does it feel joyful and secure? Observe how the teachers interact with the children; you’ll want to see patient, engaged educators who speak with encouragement. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about their daily schedule, their curriculum philosophy, and how Christian principles are incorporated in a way that is developmentally appropriate for three and four-year-olds. It’s also wise to inquire about teacher qualifications and the safety protocols they have in place.

Another wonderful aspect of choosing a local Christian preschool is the community it fosters, not just for your child, but for your entire family. These schools often become extensions of your support network, connecting you with other parents in Waterford who share similar values. This can lead to lasting friendships and a strong sense of being part of a caring community, which is so valuable as you navigate the parenting journey.

Ultimately, the best Christian preschool for your family is one where your child feels loved, safe, and excited to learn. It’s a place where the lessons of compassion and curiosity go hand-in-hand. Taking the time to visit and ask thoughtful questions will help you find that perfect fit right here in our area—a place where your little one’s educational journey can begin on a foundation of faith, learning, and love.

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