The Best Preschools in Howard, SD
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Howard. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Little Learners Preschool
Howard School District
Little Learners Preschool operates within the Howard School District and has established an excellent reputation for preparing children for kindergarten success. The program focuses on comprehensive early childhood development through structured play-based learning, literacy development, and social skills building. Certified early childhood educators provide individualized attention in small class sizes, with a curriculum that emphasizes phonics, numeracy, and cooperative learning. The facility maintains high safety standards and strong parent-teacher communication.
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Rising Stars Preschool
Independent
Rising Stars Preschool has served the Howard community for over a decade with a balanced approach to early education. The center offers both full-day and part-time programs tailored to different family needs, featuring a play-based curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, creative arts, and literacy development. Their experienced teaching staff holds early childhood certifications and maintains low student-teacher ratios. The facility is known for its safe, nurturing environment and strong emphasis on social-emotional learning.
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Bright Beginnings Early Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Madison (approximately 15 miles from Howard), Bright Beginnings Early Learning Center serves families throughout Lake County with comprehensive early childhood programs. The center employs state-licensed early childhood educators and follows a research-based curriculum that promotes cognitive, physical, and social development. Features include modern learning materials, outdoor play areas, and technology-integrated learning stations. The center maintains excellent safety records and offers flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Howard, SD:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Howard, SD, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Howard, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $150 to $300, though costs can vary based on program type and hours. Local options include church-affiliated programs, home-based daycares with preschool curricula, and the public school's preschool program. For financial assistance, check eligibility for the South Dakota Child Care Assistance Program, and inquire directly with providers about potential sliding scale fees or scholarships.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Howard?
All licensed childcare and preschool facilities in Howard are regulated by the South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS). You can search for a provider's license status, inspection reports, and any compliance history on the DSS website. Additionally, visiting the preschool in person, asking about staff qualifications and turnover, and checking for accreditation from organizations like NAEYC are key steps to assess quality.
What are the enrollment timelines and age requirements for preschools in Howard?
Enrollment for the Howard School District's preschool program typically begins in early spring for the following fall, with a cutoff age requiring children to be 3 or 4 years old by September 1st. Private and in-home preschools may have more flexible timelines and age requirements, but spaces are limited, so it's advisable to contact providers 6-12 months in advance, especially for popular programs.
What types of preschool programs are available in Howard, SD?
Howard offers a mix of preschool settings, including the state-funded public school preschool program, which often follows a part-day schedule. There are also private, faith-based preschools (often part-day) and licensed home-based daycare providers that incorporate preschool learning into full-day care. The specific educational philosophies (like play-based or academic-focused) vary, so visiting and asking about the daily curriculum is important.
Are there considerations specific to Howard for preschool transportation and safety?
Transportation is typically not provided by private preschools in Howard; parents are responsible for drop-off and pick-up. The public school preschool may offer busing for eligible students within the district. For safety, inquire about each facility's emergency plans for South Dakota weather events like severe winter storms and their secure check-in/check-out procedures for a small-town setting.
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