The Best Preschools in Kent, OH
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Kent. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Kent
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Kent is a highly-rated preschool offering a play-based learning approach with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. Their curriculum focuses on academic readiness, social development, and emotional growth with qualified teachers implementing age-appropriate lesson plans. The school maintains excellent safety records and offers flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Primrose School of Stow
Primrose Schools
Located just 15 minutes from Kent, Primrose School of Stow serves families throughout Portage County with their Balanced Learning® approach that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The school features state-of-the-art facilities, secure environments, and highly qualified early childhood educators. Their curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, mathematics, and STEM activities. The school maintains exceptional parent satisfaction ratings and comprehensive safety protocols.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Cuyahoga Falls
KinderCare Education
This highly-regarded KinderCare location serves families from Kent and surrounding areas with comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center offers research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social skills development. Features include secure facilities, experienced teaching staff with early childhood credentials, and structured learning environments. The center has maintained consistent high ratings for educational quality and parent communication over many years of operation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Kent, OH:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Kent, OH, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
Tuition for preschools in Kent typically ranges from $150 to $300 per week, depending on the program's schedule, philosophy, and whether it's a private center or a faith-based school. For financial assistance, families can explore the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services for potential childcare subsidies, and some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. Additionally, Kent City Schools' preschool program for children with special needs is tuition-free, and typical peers may attend through a paid tuition model.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Kent?
All licensed preschools in Ohio are regulated by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). You can search for a provider's licensing inspection reports and any violations on the ODJFS website. For an additional quality indicator, look for programs accredited by national organizations like NAEYC or those rated through Ohio's voluntary Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) star rating system, which several Kent-area preschools participate in.
What are the main types of preschool programs available in Kent?
Kent offers a variety of preschool options, including private childcare centers, faith-based preschools (often affiliated with local churches), cooperative preschools where parents assist in the classroom, and the Kent City Schools' integrated special education preschool. The city and surrounding township also have nature-based and Montessori-inspired programs, providing diverse educational philosophies for parents to consider.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Kent, as enrollment timelines can be competitive?
For the most popular programs, especially those affiliated with the school district or highly-rated private centers, it is advisable to begin your search and inquiries a full year in advance, typically in the fall prior to the desired start date. Many schools in Kent have open enrollment or registration periods between January and March for the following academic year. Contacting schools directly for their specific timeline is crucial.
Are there preschools in Kent that offer flexible schedules or cater to working parents?
Yes, many private childcare centers in Kent offer full-day, year-round programs to accommodate working parents' schedules. Traditional preschools often offer half-day options, 2-5 days per week. For greater flexibility, look for centers that provide extended care hours before and after the core preschool session. It's important to confirm specific operating hours, as they can vary significantly between a church-based morning program and a dedicated childcare facility.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Ohio or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.