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The Best Preschools in Essex Junction, VT

Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Essex Junction. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.

3 Quality Preschools
4.7 Average Rating

Essex Junction Co-operative Preschool

Cooperative (Parent-Run)

4.7/ 5.0
22 years experience

Essex Junction Co-operative Preschool is a highly regarded parent-run facility emphasizing a play-based learning approach with certified early childhood educators. It focuses on social-emotional development, community building, and hands-on activities. The cooperative model encourages strong parent involvement, and the preschool maintains excellent safety records and high parent satisfaction, with a curriculum aligned with Vermont Early Learning Standards.

Programs Offered:

Play-based preschool programspart-time and full-day optionsparent involvement activities
1 Maple Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452
(802) 878-2705
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The Children's School of Essex

Independent

4.6/ 5.0
18 years experience

The Children's School of Essex offers a balanced, individualized curriculum with Montessori-inspired elements, focusing on literacy, math, and outdoor exploration. It features low student-teacher ratios, qualified staff with early childhood certifications, and a safe, nurturing environment. Parents consistently praise its engaging activities and strong communication, contributing to its high ratings and reputation in the Essex Junction area.

Programs Offered:

Infant caretoddler programspreschool educationkindergarten readiness
75 Pearl Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452
(802) 878-6244
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Goddard School of Williston

Goddard Systems, Inc.

4.8/ 5.0
15 years experience

The Goddard School of Williston is a nationally accredited preschool known for its play-based learning curriculum that emphasizes literacy, STEM, and social skills. With highly qualified teachers and a focus on safety and individualized attention, it serves families in Essex Junction and the broader Chittenden County area. It receives outstanding parent reviews for its structured yet flexible programs and modern facilities, making it a top choice for early education.

Programs Offered:

Early childhood educationdaycarebefore and after school caresummer programs
500 Marshall Avenue, Williston, VT 05495
(802) 872-1000
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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about preschools in Essex Junction, VT:

What is the typical cost of preschool in Essex Junction, VT, and are there financial assistance options?

Tuition for preschools in Essex Junction typically ranges from $200 to $350 per week for full-time programs, with part-time options often being proportionally less. Financial assistance is available through the state's Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP), and some local centers offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. It's also worth checking if your employer participates in Vermont's Child Care Contribution Tax Credit program.

How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Essex Junction?

All licensed preschool programs in Vermont are regulated by the Child Development Division (CDD). You can verify a program's license status and review any compliance history through the Bright Futures Information System on the Vermont Department for Children and Families website. Additionally, many high-quality programs in the area pursue accreditation through the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or a 5-Star rating in Vermont's Step Ahead Recognition System (STARS).

What are the enrollment timelines and waitlist situations like for Essex Junction preschools?

Due to high demand, many popular preschools in Essex Junction begin their enrollment processes in January or February for the following fall semester. It is highly advisable to start researching and scheduling tours a full year in advance. Several programs, especially those affiliated with the Essex Westford School District or highly-rated private centers, often have waitlists, so early application is key.

Are there preschool programs in Essex Junction that integrate with the public school system?

Yes, the Essex Westford School District (EWSD) offers integrated Pre-K programs for 3- and 4-year-olds at several elementary schools, including Essex Junction Elementary School. These state-funded programs are typically part-day and follow the public school calendar. Eligibility and enrollment are managed through the district's Early Education Office, and they prioritize children who may benefit from early educational support.

What unique program philosophies or focuses are available in Essex Junction preschools?

Essex Junction offers a variety of approaches, including play-based, Montessori, Reggio Emilia-inspired, and nature/forest school programs that take advantage of Vermont's outdoor environment. You can find programs with strong focuses on social-emotional learning, STEM exploration, and arts integration. Many centers also emphasize community connections, with visits to local spots like the Essex Junction Fire Department or the Essex Experience.

Finding Your Perfect Fit: Navigating All Day Preschool Options in Essex Junction

For parents in Essex Junction, the search for an "all day preschool near me" is about so much more than just convenience or childcare. It’s about finding a nurturing launchpad for your child’s social, emotional, and academic growth right here in our community. The transition to a full-day program is a significant step for both child and parent, and understanding the local landscape can make all the difference. Essex Junction and the surrounding Chittenden County area offer a wonderful variety of programs, each with its own philosophy and rhythm, designed to support our youngest learners through a busy and enriching day.

An all-day preschool program typically extends beyond the classic two- or three-hour morning session, often aligning more closely with a parent’s workday, from around 8 or 9 AM to 3 or 4 PM. This extended time allows for a beautifully balanced routine that is the hallmark of quality early education. Look for programs that weave together structured learning, imaginative free play, ample outdoor time—something our Vermont seasons richly provide—and essential rest periods. The best local preschools understand that a child’s day needs a gentle flow, not a rigid schedule, moving seamlessly from a group story time to exploring sensory tables, to building forts in the play yard, and then to a quiet moment with a book.

As you begin your search right here in Essex Junction, consider what environment will help your child thrive. Some families are drawn to nature-based programs that take full advantage of our beautiful green spaces, incorporating hiking, gardening, and outdoor exploration as core parts of the curriculum. Others may seek a program with a stronger focus on early literacy and math foundations, or one that emphasizes social-emotional learning through guided play. The key is to visit. Schedule a tour, observe the classroom dynamics, and notice how the teachers interact with the children. Are they engaged at eye level? Is the atmosphere calm and joyful? Ask about how a typical day is structured and how they handle the inevitable moments of frustration or fatigue that can come with a longer day.

Practical questions are vital for Essex Junction parents. Inquire about enrollment schedules, as many local programs fill quickly. Understand the policies on meals and snacks: do you provide a lunch, or is it offered by the school? What is their approach to toilet training? Crucially, feel the community vibe. Does this feel like a place where your family can connect? The right all-day preschool becomes a partnership, extending your child’s world in a safe and stimulating way. Trust your instincts as you explore the options from the village center to nearby Williston and Essex. The perfect place is one where your child is seen, valued, and excited to learn and play all day long, giving you peace of mind as they take this wonderful first step in their educational journey.

Nearby Cities

Explore preschools in cities near Essex Junction:

BTV

Vermont

Essex

Vermont

Chittenden

Vermont

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