The Best Preschools in Harwick, PA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Harwick. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Fox Chapel
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Fox Chapel is a highly-rated early childhood education center serving the Harwick area with a play-based learning approach. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. The facility features secure entry systems, certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, and age-appropriate learning environments. They maintain small class sizes and offer enrichment programs including yoga, music, and Spanish. The school has maintained excellent state compliance records and receives consistently positive parent feedback for their communication and curriculum quality.
Programs Offered:
Primrose School at North Allegheny
Primrose Schools
Primrose School at North Allegheny provides balanced learning through their proprietary Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The school serves families in the northern Pittsburgh suburbs including Harwick with a focus on character development and school readiness. Their facility includes secure access controls, dedicated age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains excellent state licensing compliance. Parent reviews consistently praise the engaging curriculum and professional staff.
Programs Offered:
The Gardner School of Pittsburgh
The Gardner School
The Gardner School of Pittsburgh offers academic-based early childhood education with a focus on kindergarten readiness. Their comprehensive curriculum includes literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts, delivered by degreed teachers in purpose-built classrooms. The facility features secure entry systems, indoor gymnasium, and technology-enhanced learning spaces. Serving the northern Pittsburgh corridor including Harwick, the school maintains small student-to-teacher ratios and emphasizes individualized learning plans. The school has received consistent positive feedback for their communication, safety protocols, and educational quality from parent reviews.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Harwick, PA:
What is the average cost of preschool in Harwick, PA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Harwick and the surrounding Allegheny County area, preschool tuition typically ranges from $150 to $300 per week, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's Pre-K Counts program offers free, high-quality pre-K to eligible families, and some local centers offer sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit for additional early intervention and preschool support services.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Harwick?
All licensed preschools in Pennsylvania are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can search for a specific facility's inspection reports and license status on the DHS website. Additionally, look for programs with Keystone STARS ratings, Pennsylvania's quality rating system; a higher STAR rating (1-4) indicates a greater commitment to quality standards in early learning.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and age requirements for Harwick preschools?
Most preschools in the Harwick area begin their enrollment periods in January or February for the following fall semester, with some popular programs filling quickly. Children are generally eligible if they are 3 or 4 years old by the start of the school year, though some programs may accept children as young as 2.5 for specific toddler programs. Contacting schools directly in the early winter is highly recommended.
Are there preschools in Harwick that offer flexible schedules or extended care for working parents?
Yes, many preschools in the Harwick area offer part-time (e.g., 2-3 days a week) and full-time options, with full-time often including extended before- and after-care. Several local centers and church-affiliated programs specifically structure their hours to accommodate working parents, typically operating from around 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Be sure to ask about these "wrap-around" care options during your tours.
What types of preschool curricula or philosophies are commonly available in Harwick?
You will find a mix of approaches, including play-based, Montessori, faith-based (common in local church-run programs), and more structured academic preparatory models. Many programs align with Pennsylvania's Early Learning Standards. Visiting schools is the best way to understand the philosophy; observe if the environment is child-led with open exploration or more teacher-directed with specific learning objectives.
Nearby Cities
Explore preschools in cities near Harwick:
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Pennsylvania or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.