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The Best Preschools in Leslie, MO

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
4.5 Average Rating

KinderCare Learning Center

KinderCare Education

4.3/ 5.0
15 years experience

KinderCare Learning Center in Washington is a highly-rated early childhood education facility serving the Leslie area with a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, and social-emotional development. The center maintains strong safety protocols, including secured entrances and trained staff, and offers flexible programs for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Parent reviews frequently highlight the qualified teachers, engaging learning environments, and consistent communication, contributing to its reputation for educational quality and reliability in Franklin County.

Programs Offered:

Infant CareToddler CarePreschool ProgramBefore & After School Care
1600 West 5th Street, Washington, MO 63090

The Goddard School

Goddard Systems, Inc.

4.7/ 5.0
12 years experience

The Goddard School in O'Fallon is a top-rated early learning center known for its play-based learning approach and STEAM-focused curriculum, serving families in the Leslie region. It emphasizes safety with features like keypad entry and comprehensive background checks for staff. The school boasts low student-to-teacher ratios and highly qualified educators, leading to high parent satisfaction for its structured yet nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.

Programs Offered:

PreschoolPre-KKindergarten ReadinessSummer CampEnrichment Programs
1000 Crossroads Plaza, O'Fallon, MO 63366

Kiddie Academy of O'Fallon

Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care

4.5/ 5.0
10 years experience

Kiddie Academy of O'Fallon provides a well-regarded educational child care program with a Life Essentials® curriculum that integrates character development and academic skills, serving the Leslie area. The facility prioritizes safety with monitored classrooms and health protocols, and parents consistently praise its dedicated teachers and clean, stimulating environment. Its focus on community involvement and individualized learning plans has built a strong track record for fostering early childhood growth and parent trust.

Programs Offered:

Child CarePreschoolAfter-School ProgramsEducational Enrichment
1015 Tom Ginnever Avenue, O'Fallon, MO 63366

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about preschools in Leslie, MO:

What are the main types of preschool options available in Leslie, MO?

In Leslie and the surrounding Franklin County area, options typically include licensed in-home daycare programs, faith-based preschools often affiliated with local churches, and community-based programs. Due to the town's small size, many families also consider preschools in nearby larger communities like Washington or Union, which may offer public school district early childhood programs or private centers.

How much does preschool typically cost in Leslie, MO?

Costs can vary significantly. Licensed in-home programs in the area may range from $120-$180 per week, while part-time church-based preschools might charge $80-$150 per month for a few half-days weekly. Missouri's Department of Social Services offers childcare subsidy programs for eligible families, and it's advisable to inquire directly with providers for their current rates and any available sliding-scale fees.

What should I look for to ensure a preschool is licensed and safe in Missouri?

Always verify that the provider is licensed by the State of Missouri. You can check a provider's license, compliance history, and any reported violations through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's (DESE) online childcare facility search. A quality program will gladly show you its license, discuss its safety protocols, and allow you to observe the environment.

Are there any free or low-cost public preschool programs for Leslie residents?

Leslie itself does not have a public school district, as it is part of unincorporated Franklin County. However, residents may be served by the surrounding public school districts (like Washington or Union), which may offer state-funded Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) or Title I preschool programs for qualifying children. Contacting the Franklin County Special Education Cooperative is a good starting point for eligibility information.

What are key factors to consider given Leslie's rural location when choosing a preschool?

Given the rural setting, transportation and travel distance are primary considerations. Clarify if the program offers any transportation or if it's solely parent-provided. Also, inquire about their inclement weather policy, as rural roads can be impacted. Finally, consider the program's community connections and whether it facilitates playgroups or activities that help build local social networks for both children and parents.

Finding a Nurturing Start: Exploring Christian Preschools in and around Leslie, Missouri

For parents in our close-knit Leslie community, the search for the right preschool is about more than just ABCs and 123s. It’s about finding a place where your child’s early education is woven together with the values you cherish at home. If you’ve found yourself typing “christian preschools near me” into your search bar, you’re likely looking for that special blend of academic readiness and spiritual nurturing. The good news is that while Leslie itself is a smaller town, the surrounding Franklin County area offers several wonderful Christian early childhood options that feel just like an extension of our community.

The cornerstone of a Christian preschool is its integrated approach to learning. In these settings, lessons about kindness, sharing, and gratitude are taught alongside colors, shapes, and early literacy skills. The day often begins with a simple prayer or a joyful song, and biblical principles become part of the natural conversation throughout play and lessons. This creates a consistent and comforting environment for young children, where the messages they hear at church and at home are reinforced in their classroom. It’s an education that aims to nurture the whole child—heart, mind, and spirit.

As you begin your search from Leslie, consider both proximity and philosophy. Many excellent programs are housed within local churches in neighboring towns like Washington, Union, or New Haven, all within a reasonable driving distance. Your first step should be to visit. Schedule a time to observe a classroom in action. Notice how the teachers interact with the children. Is the atmosphere one of patient guidance and love? Ask about their curriculum: how do they incorporate faith-based learning into daily activities? Is it through storytime, music, or character lessons? Don’t hesitate to ask about the teacher’s qualifications and their approach to discipline and social development.

Another practical tip is to talk to other parents. In a community like ours, word-of-mouth recommendations are invaluable. Ask at your local church or community center if other families have experiences with area preschools. They can give you genuine insight into the day-to-day experience and the sense of community each school fosters. Finally, consider the practicalities—class schedules, cost, and if they offer programs that fit your child’s age, whether for three-year-olds or a pre-kindergarten class.

Choosing a Christian preschool near Leslie is about partnering with educators who share your hopes for your child’s foundational years. It’s about finding a warm, safe place where your little one can grow in confidence, curiosity, and faith. Taking the time to explore these options is one of the first and most meaningful steps on your child’s educational journey, setting a course for a love of learning that is grounded in the values you hold dear.

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