The Best Preschools in Middlebury, VT
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Middlebury. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
College Street Children's Center
Independent
College Street Children's Center is a highly-regarded, independent early childhood education facility located in the heart of Middlebury. With over two decades of operation, this center has established itself as a premier educational institution for young children, serving infants through pre-kindergarten. The center emphasizes play-based learning within a structured environment, focusing on social-emotional development, early literacy, and hands-on exploration. Their experienced teaching staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios, and the facility features both indoor and outdoor learning spaces designed specifically for early childhood development. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment and strong educational foundation provided.
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Mary Johnson Children's Center
Independent
Mary Johnson Children's Center operates as a nonprofit early childhood education facility serving the Middlebury community with comprehensive programs for children from infancy through pre-kindergarten. The center follows a developmentally appropriate curriculum that balances structured learning with child-directed exploration. Their approach incorporates elements of the Creative Curriculum while emphasizing outdoor education and nature-based learning, taking advantage of Vermont's natural environment. The facility maintains high safety standards and employs qualified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. The center is particularly noted for its strong parent-teacher communication and community involvement initiatives.
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Addison County Parent/Child Center
Addison County Parent/Child Center
While located in nearby Bristol, the Addison County Parent/Child Center serves families throughout Addison County, including Middlebury residents. This comprehensive early childhood organization provides high-quality preschool programs along with extensive family support services. Their educational approach combines play-based learning with structured academic preparation, focusing on school readiness skills. As an Early Head Start provider, they maintain rigorous standards for curriculum quality and teacher qualifications. The center offers sliding scale fees and comprehensive services that include health screenings, nutrition education, and family advocacy. Their long-standing reputation in the community and commitment to serving diverse families makes them a valuable resource for Middlebury area residents seeking quality early education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Middlebury, VT:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Middlebury, VT, and are there financial assistance options?
Tuition for preschool programs in Middlebury typically ranges from $150 to $250 per week, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. Financial assistance is available through the state's Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP), and some local centers offer sliding-scale tuition. It's also worth inquiring directly with preschools about any local scholarships or sibling discounts they may provide.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Middlebury?
All licensed preschools in Vermont are regulated by the Child Development Division (CDD). You can verify a program's license and review any compliance history through the Vermont Child Care Consumer website. Additionally, many Middlebury-area preschools participate in Vermont's Step Ahead Recognition System (STARS), a voluntary quality rating system that can help you compare programs.
What are the common preschool schedule options available in Middlebury?
In Middlebury, you'll find a mix of schedules including traditional part-day (e.g., 8:30 AM-12:30 PM), part-week (2-5 days a week), and full-day programs to accommodate working parents. Many programs align with the Addison Central School District calendar, offering school-year sessions, though some private centers provide year-round care. It's important to confirm hours early, as some popular programs have limited part-day slots.
Are there preschools in Middlebury with a specific educational philosophy, like Montessori or nature-based learning?
Yes, Middlebury offers diverse approaches. You can find Montessori-inspired programs, play-based curricula, and schools with a strong emphasis on outdoor and nature-based education, leveraging Vermont's rural landscape. Visiting the preschool and asking about their daily rhythm and learning goals is the best way to see if their philosophy aligns with your family's values.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Middlebury, given the local demand?
Due to high demand for quality early education in this college town, it is advisable to begin your search and schedule tours 12-18 months before your desired start date, especially for programs serving infants and toddlers. Many preschools have application deadlines in the winter (January-February) for the following fall enrollment, so contacting programs a full year in advance is a prudent strategy.
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