The Best Preschools in Stillwater, OK
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Stillwater. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Kiddie Kottage Preschool
Kiddie Kottage
Kiddie Kottage is a highly-regarded local preschool with over two decades of experience serving Stillwater families. The facility emphasizes a balanced approach to early childhood education, combining structured learning with play-based activities. They maintain small class sizes with qualified early childhood educators and focus on social-emotional development alongside academic readiness. The center has consistently high parent satisfaction ratings for its nurturing environment, experienced staff, and comprehensive curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten.
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The Learning Tree Preschool
The Learning Tree
The Learning Tree Preschool offers a well-rounded early education program focusing on the whole child's development. With a curriculum that balances academic preparation and social skills, the center provides age-appropriate learning experiences in literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The facility is known for its safe, clean environment and dedicated teaching staff with early childhood certifications. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, engaging activities, and the visible progress children make in their development.
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Little Scholars Academy
Little Scholars Academy
Located in nearby Perry and serving the broader Stillwater area, Little Scholars Academy has built a strong reputation for quality early childhood education. The center offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes language development, mathematical thinking, and social studies through hands-on learning experiences. With certified early childhood educators and low student-teacher ratios, the facility provides individualized attention to each child. The academy is particularly noted for its strong parent-teacher communication, safe learning environment, and focus on developing foundational skills for lifelong learning.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Stillwater, OK:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Stillwater, OK, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Stillwater, monthly tuition for a full-time preschool program typically ranges from $500 to $800, though prices can vary based on the program's philosophy and hours. For financial assistance, Oklahoma offers the state-funded Early Childhood Program (ECP) for qualifying families, and some local centers may offer sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking if your family qualifies for the Oklahoma Child Care Subsidy Program through DHS.
What types of preschool programs are most common in Stillwater?
Stillwater offers a diverse mix of preschool options, including faith-based programs, Montessori schools, university-affiliated labs (like those at Oklahoma State University), traditional daycare centers with preschool curricula, and public school pre-K programs for eligible 4-year-olds. This variety allows parents to choose an environment that best fits their child's learning style and family values.
How do I verify the quality and safety of a preschool in Stillwater?
First, check the facility's licensing status and any recent inspection reports through the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Care search tool. You can also ask if the program is accredited by organizations like NAEYC or participates in Oklahoma's Reaching for the Stars quality rating system. Always schedule an in-person tour to observe safety protocols, cleanliness, and teacher-child interactions directly.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Stillwater, as enrollment timelines can be competitive?
For the most sought-after programs, especially university-affiliated or highly-rated private preschools, you should begin researching and touring facilities at least 9-12 months before your desired start date. Many Stillwater preschools have enrollment periods in early spring (January-March) for the following fall. Public school pre-K programs typically have registration windows in the spring as well, so contact Stillwater Public Schools directly for their specific dates.
Are there part-time or flexible schedule options for preschool in Stillwater?
Yes, many preschools in Stillwater offer part-time schedules, such as 2, 3, or 5 half-days per week, which is common in church-based and private programs. Some daycare centers may offer more flexible full-day care that incorporates preschool curriculum. Be sure to inquire specifically about schedule options during tours, as availability can fill quickly, especially for morning-only sessions.
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