The Best Preschools in Great Falls, VA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Great Falls. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Primrose School of Great Falls
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Great Falls is an accredited early learning center known for its Balanced Learning® approach, blending academic readiness with character development. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social skills in a safe, nurturing environment. With highly qualified teachers and low student-to-teacher ratios, it focuses on whole-child development and has strong parent satisfaction due to its structured programs and communication. Safety protocols include secure entry systems and rigorous cleanliness standards.
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Great Falls Montessori School
Independent
Great Falls Montessori School offers an authentic Montessori education focused on individualized learning and hands-on experiences. The school emphasizes independence, critical thinking, and social-emotional growth in a prepared environment. With certified Montessori teachers and small class sizes, it maintains high safety standards and a strong community reputation. Parents praise its holistic approach and the longevity of its experienced staff, contributing to consistent high ratings.
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The Goddard School of Great Falls
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Great Falls provides a play-based learning environment with a focus on academic, social, and emotional development. Its F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum includes STEAM activities, language arts, and physical education, all delivered by degreed teachers. The school is noted for its safety measures, including secured facilities and health protocols, and has garnered positive parent reviews for its engaging programs and responsive staff.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Great Falls, VA:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Great Falls, VA, and are there any financial assistance options?
In Great Falls, preschool tuition can range significantly, often from $1,200 to over $2,500 per month for full-time programs, reflecting the area's high cost of living. Some local preschools affiliated with community centers or churches may offer more moderate rates. While direct public financial assistance is limited, many schools offer sibling discounts, and you can explore flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for dependent care to use pre-tax dollars.
How do I evaluate the quality and licensing of preschools in Great Falls?
All Virginia-licensed preschools must meet state standards for health, safety, and staff qualifications, which you can verify through the Virginia Department of Education's online search. In Great Falls, many top programs also pursue voluntary accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which signifies a higher standard. Always schedule in-person tours to observe teacher-child interactions, classroom environments, and ask about staff retention rates.
What are the enrollment timelines and waitlist situations like for Great Falls preschools?
Due to high demand, many popular preschools in Great Falls have application deadlines in January or February for the following fall semester, with some requiring applications a full year in advance. It's common for families to be placed on waitlists, so experts recommend applying to multiple programs. Some smaller, home-based preschools or newer programs may have more flexible or rolling admissions.
What types of preschool philosophies and programs are most common in Great Falls?
Great Falls offers a diverse mix, including traditional play-based, Montessori, Reggio Emilia-inspired, and faith-based programs. Many local preschools emphasize outdoor learning, leveraging the area's natural surroundings with forest-school elements. You'll also find strong focus on kindergarten readiness programs that align with the advanced academic expectations of Fairfax County Public Schools.
Given Great Falls' semi-rural setting, what transportation and location factors should I consider?
Most preschools in Great Falls do not provide bus transportation, so parents must plan for drop-off and pick-up, considering traffic on major routes like Georgetown Pike and Route 7. When choosing a location, consider proximity to your home or workplace, as commutes can be longer than expected. Many families find co-op preschools or programs at local community centers like the Great Falls Grange or libraries to be convenient central options.
Nearby Cities
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