The Best Preschools in Fairfax, VA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Fairfax. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Fairfax
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Fairfax is highly regarded for its play-based learning curriculum that emphasizes social, emotional, and academic development. It maintains excellent safety standards with secure facilities and background-checked teachers, and parents consistently praise its nurturing environment and strong communication. The school focuses on individualized learning plans and STEM activities to prepare children for kindergarten.
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Primrose School of Fairfax
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Fairfax offers a balanced learning approach through its accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities to foster creativity and critical thinking. It boasts low student-teacher ratios, rigorous safety protocols, and highly qualified educators, leading to high parent satisfaction for its structured yet engaging environment. The school is known for its focus on character development and literacy skills.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Fairfax
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare in Fairfax provides a comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that supports cognitive, social, and physical development. It emphasizes safety through secure access systems and trained staff, and parents appreciate its inclusive atmosphere and flexible scheduling options. The center is praised for its experienced teachers and focus on school readiness through hands-on learning activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Fairfax, VA:
What is the average cost of preschool in Fairfax, VA, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Fairfax, preschool tuition typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,200+ per month, depending on the program's schedule, philosophy, and amenities. For financial assistance, Fairfax County offers the Early Head Start and Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) programs for income-eligible families. Additionally, many private centers offer sliding scale tuition or sibling discounts, so it's important to inquire directly.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Fairfax?
All licensed preschools in Virginia are regulated by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). You can search for a specific program's licensing status and any inspection reports on the VDOE website. For an added quality benchmark, look for programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which several top Fairfax preschools hold.
What are the main types of preschool programs available in Fairfax?
Fairfax offers a diverse range of preschool models, including traditional play-based, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, faith-based (often through local churches), and language immersion programs. The Fairfax County Office for Children also manages several public preschool classrooms for at-risk learners. Your choice will depend on your child's learning style and your family's educational values.
When should I start applying for preschools in Fairfax, as waitlists are common?
Due to high demand, the application timeline is critical. For sought-after private preschools, you should begin researching and touring facilities 12-18 months before your desired start date, with many applications opening in the fall for the following academic year. For county-run programs like VPI, specific application windows are announced, typically in early spring.
Are there specific safety and preparedness considerations for preschools in Fairfax given its location?
Yes, given Fairfax's proximity to Washington D.C. and its dense suburban environment, inquire about secure building access, designated drop-off/pick-up procedures, and emergency lockdown protocols. Furthermore, many Fairfax preschools have structured plans for inclement weather, aligning with Fairfax County Public Schools' delay/cancellation policies, which is important for working parents to understand.
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