The Best Preschools in Harrison, MT
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Harrison. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Butte Family YMCA Child Development Center
YMCA of Butte
The Butte Family YMCA Child Development Center is a highly-rated facility known for its comprehensive early learning programs that focus on social, emotional, and academic development. It features a safe, nurturing environment with certified teachers, a structured curriculum including literacy and math activities, and strong parent involvement. Serving the Harrison area, it has an excellent safety record and high parent satisfaction, with many families commuting from nearby communities for its reliable services.
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Bozeman Montessori School
Bozeman Montessori Association
Bozeman Montessori School offers an authentic Montessori education that emphasizes hands-on learning, independence, and individualized instruction for young children. With highly qualified teachers and a focus on holistic development, it has a strong reputation for educational quality, safety, and parent satisfaction. Families from Harrison and surrounding areas appreciate its nurturing environment and well-rounded curriculum, which includes practical life skills, sensory activities, and cultural studies.
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Helena Montessori School
Independent
Helena Montessori School provides a high-quality, child-centered education based on the Montessori method, fostering academic growth and social skills in a safe, supportive setting. It features experienced teachers, a low student-to-teacher ratio, and a curriculum that includes language, math, and practical life activities. Serving the broader region including Harrison, it is praised for its strong safety protocols, engaging learning environment, and consistent parent feedback highlighting its positive impact on early childhood development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Harrison, MT:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Harrison, MT, and are there any financial assistance options?
In Harrison and the surrounding rural areas, preschool costs can vary widely, typically ranging from $150 to $400 per month for part-time programs. Due to Montana's rural nature, some families may qualify for assistance through the state's Best Beginnings STARS Scholarship or federal programs like Head Start, which has a presence in nearby communities. It's best to contact individual providers directly to discuss sliding scale options.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in a small town like Harrison?
All licensed childcare providers in Montana are regulated by the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS). You can search for a provider's license status, inspection history, and any reported violations on the DPHHS Early Childhood and Family Support Division website. In a close-knit community like Harrison, also ask for personal references from other local parents.
What types of preschool programs are available in Harrison, given its rural setting?
Options may include home-based family childcare programs, part-time church-affiliated preschools, or cooperative models where parents share responsibilities. Given the limited population, some families in the Harrison area also consider nature-based or outdoor-focused programs that leverage the local environment, or they may look at programs in slightly larger nearby towns like Dillon or Butte.
When should I start looking and applying for preschool in Harrison to secure a spot?
Due to limited slots in small communities, it's advisable to start your search and make inquiries at least 6-12 months before your desired start date, especially if you need full-day care. Many programs in the area have small, fixed enrollments, so contacting them in the winter or early spring for a fall start is a common strategy.
Are there any unique considerations for preschool safety and logistics in Harrison, MT?
Yes, consider factors like a provider's plan for severe weather, winter road conditions, and transportation given the rural distances. Ask about their outdoor play area security, especially regarding local wildlife. Also, inquire about their communication plan for emergencies, as cell service can be spotty in parts of rural Montana.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Montana or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.