The Best Preschools in Cheltenham, PA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Cheltenham. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Abington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Abington provides a premier early childhood education with a play-based, F.L.EX.® learning program that fosters social, emotional, and academic development. It features highly qualified teachers, secure facilities with keypad entry, and a curriculum aligned with Pennsylvania early learning standards, resulting in high parent satisfaction and strong kindergarten readiness outcomes.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Jenkintown
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Jenkintown offers a balanced early learning curriculum that combines structured academics with play-based activities, focusing on literacy, math, and social skills. With a strong safety record, including secured access and trained staff, and high parent ratings for teacher engagement and communication, it supports children's holistic development.
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The Learning Experience of Abington
The Learning Experience Systems, LLC
The Learning Experience in Abington utilizes a proprietary L.E.A.P.® curriculum that emphasizes early literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional skills through interactive learning. It maintains excellent safety protocols, low student-teacher ratios, and has consistently high parent satisfaction due to its engaging environment and focus on school readiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Cheltenham, PA:
What is the average cost of preschool in Cheltenham, PA, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Cheltenham, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $300 to $800, depending on the program's schedule, philosophy, and whether it's a private center or faith-based. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's state-funded Pre-K Counts program has income-eligible openings at select local providers, and the Cheltenham School District may offer early intervention services. It's also worth inquiring directly with preschools about sibling discounts or private scholarships.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Cheltenham?
All licensed preschools in Pennsylvania, including those in Cheltenham, are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can search for a provider's license status, inspection reports, and any compliance history on the DHS website. Additionally, look for programs accredited by national organizations like NAEYC or those with a Keystone STARS rating, a Pennsylvania-specific quality initiative; a 4-STAR rating is the highest.
What are the main types of preschool programs available in Cheltenham?
Cheltenham offers a variety of options, including traditional nursery schools, Montessori programs, faith-based preschools (often affiliated with local churches or synagogues), and cooperative preschools where parents assist in the classroom. The Cheltenham School District itself may offer pre-kindergarten for eligible children. Your choice will depend on your educational philosophy, schedule needs, and whether you prefer a play-based or more structured academic approach.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Cheltenham, given local demand?
For the fall semester, it is highly recommended to begin your search and schedule tours in the winter or early spring (January-March) of the preceding year. Many popular preschools in the Cheltenham area have application deadlines and hold enrollment open houses in early spring, with some programs filling their spots by April or May for the following September.
Are there specific considerations for preschool safety and preparedness in Cheltenham, such as emergency protocols?
Yes, licensed preschools in Cheltenham must have state-mandated emergency plans for fires, lockdowns, and severe weather. When touring, ask about their specific safety protocols, staff-to-child ratios, and staff training in CPR/first aid. Given Cheltenham's location, it's also prudent to inquire about their communication systems for emergencies and their policy for safe pick-up and drop-off, especially at centers on busier roads like Cheltenham Avenue or Washington Lane.
Nearby Cities
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