The Best Preschools in Washington, PA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Washington. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Washington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Washington is a highly-regarded early childhood education center offering play-based learning with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their curriculum focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression with qualified teachers holding degrees in early childhood education. The school maintains small class sizes and offers enrichment programs including yoga, music, and Spanish.
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Children's Garden Early Learning Center
Independent
Children's Garden Early Learning Center provides comprehensive early childhood education in a nurturing environment. The center emphasizes hands-on learning through their Creative Curriculum approach, focusing on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills development. They maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and employ experienced educators with background checks and ongoing professional development. The facility features secure access, modern classrooms, and age-appropriate playgrounds with safety surfaces.
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The Children's House of Washington
Independent
The Children's House of Washington offers authentic Montessori education for children ages 3-12. The school features AMI-trained teachers and carefully prepared environments that encourage independence, concentration, and love of learning. Their program includes practical life activities, sensorial materials, language development, mathematics, and cultural studies. The facility maintains small class sizes with mixed-age groupings and emphasizes peaceful conflict resolution and community building. Safety protocols include secure entry systems and comprehensive emergency procedures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Washington, PA:
What is the average cost of preschool in Washington, PA, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Washington, PA, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $150 to $350, depending on the program's schedule and type (e.g., church-affiliated, private, or Montessori). For financial assistance, parents can apply for Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy through the Southwest Regional Key if they meet income eligibility requirements. Additionally, some local preschools offer sliding scale fees or limited scholarships.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Washington?
All licensed preschools and child care centers in Pennsylvania are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can search for a specific facility's licensing status, inspection reports, and any compliance history on the DHS website. For a quality benchmark, look for programs with Keystone STARS ratings, a voluntary state quality initiative; a 4-Star program is the highest rating available locally.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and age requirements for preschools in Washington, PA?
Most preschools in Washington follow a traditional school year (September to May) and begin registration as early as January or February for the fall. Common age cutoffs require children to be 3 or 4 years old by a specific date, often August 31st or September 1st. It's crucial to contact programs directly, as popular centers fill quickly, and some may offer limited rolling admission for mid-year starts.
Are there specific preschool programs in Washington that cater to different educational philosophies?
Yes, Washington offers a variety of approaches. You can find traditional play-based programs, faith-based preschools (often affiliated with local churches), and structured academic preparatory programs. While there are no dedicated Montessori or Waldorf schools within the city itself, several programs in the broader Washington County area incorporate elements of these philosophies, so expanding your search radius is advisable.
What should I look for regarding safety and communication at a Washington preschool?
Prioritize centers with secure entry systems, clear sign-in/sign-out procedures, and staff trained in pediatric first aid/CPR. Inquire about their emergency plans for events like fires or severe weather. For communication, ask how they provide daily updates (many use apps like Brightwheel or Tadpoles) and their policy for parent-teacher conferences, which are essential for tracking your child's progress in line with Pennsylvania's early learning standards.
Nearby Cities
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