The Best Preschools in Reading, VT
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Reading. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Mountain Village School
Independent
The Mountain Village School is a highly-regarded Montessori preschool serving the Reading area and surrounding communities. With AMI-certified teachers and authentic Montessori methodology, they provide individualized education in mixed-age classrooms. The school emphasizes hands-on learning, independence, and respect for each child's developmental pace. Their beautiful rural campus offers extensive outdoor learning opportunities and nature-based curriculum. Safety protocols are comprehensive, and parent satisfaction is exceptionally high with many families traveling from Reading for this premium early childhood education experience.
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Quechee Cooperative Preschool
Cooperative Preschool Model
Quechee Cooperative Preschool serves families throughout the Reading area with its unique parent participation model and play-based curriculum. The school focuses on social-emotional development, creative expression, and building foundational skills through hands-on exploration. With low student-teacher ratios and highly qualified educators, they provide a nurturing environment that emphasizes community involvement. The cooperative model allows parents to be actively involved in their child's education while benefiting from professional teaching staff. Their safety record is excellent, and they maintain strong connections with local elementary schools for smooth transitions.
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The Little School
Independent
The Little School has been serving families in the Reading area and broader Upper Valley region for two decades with a comprehensive early childhood program. Their developmentally appropriate curriculum balances structured learning with child-directed play, focusing on literacy, numeracy, and social skills development. The facility features modern classrooms, extensive play areas, and dedicated spaces for art, music, and movement. Teachers hold advanced degrees in early childhood education and maintain ongoing professional development. The school is known for its warm, inclusive community and strong parent communication systems, with many Reading families choosing this center for its proven track record of kindergarten readiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Reading, VT:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Reading, VT, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
Preschool costs in Reading typically range from $150 to $250 per week, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. For financial assistance, Vermont's Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) is a key resource for eligible families. Additionally, some local preschools may offer sliding scale tuition or scholarships, so it's important to inquire directly.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Reading?
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 Northern Lights at Community College of Vermont website, which is the state's resource for early childhood professionals. Visiting in person and asking about staff qualifications and curriculum is also highly recommended.
Given Reading's rural setting, what are the transportation options for preschool?
Most preschools in Reading do not provide bus transportation, so parents should plan for drop-off and pick-up. Carpooling with other local families is a common and practical solution in this small community. It's a good idea to discuss transportation logistics with potential preschools and other parents during your search.
What types of preschool programs are available in the Reading area?
Options in and near Reading often include home-based family child care programs, private preschools, and nature-based or play-centered programs that leverage the rural Vermont environment. Some families also look at programs in nearby towns like Woodstock. Given the small size of Reading, exploring programs in surrounding Windsor County towns will expand your choices significantly.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Reading, VT?
Due to limited slots in this small community, it is advisable to start your search and inquiries at least 12-18 months before your desired start date. Many programs have waitlists, and enrollment periods often begin in the winter or early spring for the following fall. Contacting programs directly for their specific timeline is crucial.
Nearby Cities
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