The Best Preschools in Highwood, MT
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Highwood. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Great Falls Early Learning Center
Independent
A highly-regarded early learning center located approximately 40 miles from Highwood, serving families throughout the region. The center features a comprehensive preschool curriculum focused on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM foundations. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with specialized training in Montessori-inspired methods. The facility maintains excellent safety protocols with secure entry systems and comprehensive background checks. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment and strong kindergarten preparation program.
Programs Offered:
Bright Horizons at Great Falls
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Part of the nationally recognized Bright Horizons network, this center serves the Greater Great Falls area including Highwood families. The preschool program emphasizes play-based learning with structured curriculum components in language development, mathematics, and social studies. Features low student-teacher ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators. The center maintains rigorous safety standards including comprehensive health protocols and secure facility access. Parents appreciate the consistent communication and developmental progress tracking.
Programs Offered:
Fort Benton Early Learning Center
Independent
Located approximately 25 miles from Highwood, this community-focused early learning center has served families in Chouteau County for over 15 years. The preschool program emphasizes hands-on learning experiences and developmental appropriateness. Features certified early childhood teachers with specialized training in literacy development and social skills. The center maintains strong safety records with regular emergency drills and comprehensive staff background checks. Known for its inclusive environment and strong parent-teacher partnerships, with many families commuting from surrounding rural communities.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Highwood, MT:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Highwood, MT, and are there any financial assistance options?
In Highwood, preschool costs can vary, but many local in-home or small center-based programs are often more affordable than in larger Montana cities, typically ranging from $150 to $300 per month for part-time schedules. For financial assistance, parents should inquire directly with providers about potential sliding scale fees and also check eligibility for Montana's Best Beginnings STARS to Quality scholarships, which are state-funded aids for qualifying families to access high-quality early education.
How do I ensure a preschool in Highwood is licensed and meets Montana's safety standards?
All licensed childcare and preschool programs in Montana are regulated by the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS). You can verify a Highwood provider's license, view inspection reports, and check their quality rating in the Best Beginnings STARS system by searching the provider's name or location on the official Montana DPHHS website. Always visit in person to observe safety protocols, such as secure entry points and clean, child-proofed environments.
Given Highwood's rural location, what are the common preschool schedule options available?
Due to the community's size and needs, most Highwood preschools offer part-time schedules, such as morning sessions 2-3 days a week, which is common for 3-5 year olds. Some in-home providers may offer more flexible or full-day options to accommodate local agricultural or work schedules. It's important to start your search early, as fewer programs mean limited spots, and schedules are often designed around the local school district's calendar.
What types of preschool curricula or philosophies are available in Highwood?
Preschools in Highwood typically offer play-based and developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) curricula, focusing on social skills, early literacy, and exploration through play, which aligns well with Montana's Early Learning Standards. Given the rural setting, many programs also incorporate nature-based learning, utilizing the local environment. It's best to ask providers directly about their daily structure and how they prepare children for kindergarten at Highwood Elementary School.
How can I assess the quality of a preschool during a visit in Highwood?
During a visit, observe the interaction between teachers and children—look for warm, responsive, and engaged communication. Check if the environment is organized, stimulating, and safe, with evidence of child-led play and learning. Don't hesitate to ask about the provider's training, their adult-to-child ratio (Montana has specific licensing requirements for this), and how they communicate with families, which is especially important in a close-knit community like Highwood.
Nearby Cities
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