The Best Preschools in Bellevue, WA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Bellevue. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Bright Horizons at Bellevue Downtown
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Bellevue Downtown is a highly-regarded early education center offering comprehensive programs for children from infancy through preschool. The facility features a research-based curriculum focused on emergent learning and school readiness, with emphasis on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-student ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, regular health screenings, and comprehensive emergency preparedness. Parents consistently praise the professional staff, clean facilities, and the center's ability to prepare children academically and socially for elementary school.
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Kiddie Academy of Bellevue
Kiddie Academy Domestic Franchising
Kiddie Academy of Bellevue operates with a Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The academy provides technology-enhanced learning environments, outdoor play areas, and specialized learning centers. Their program includes Spanish language exposure, music, and physical education components. The facility maintains state-of-the-art security systems including electronic entry and comprehensive monitoring. Teachers hold early childhood credentials and receive ongoing professional development. Parent reviews highlight the structured yet nurturing environment, excellent communication through the proprietary mobile app, and the visible developmental progress children demonstrate.
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Primrose School of Bellevue
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Bellevue implements the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a strong focus on character development and leadership skills. The curriculum incorporates literacy-rich environments, STEAM activities, and purposeful play. The school features secure campuses with keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and rigorous health and safety protocols. The facility includes dedicated art, music, and outdoor learning environments. Parent testimonials consistently mention the exceptional quality of instruction, the school's commitment to whole-child development, and the strong sense of community among families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Bellevue, WA:
What is the average cost of preschool in Bellevue, WA, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
Full-time preschool in Bellevue typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,200+ per month, with part-time options being proportionally less. The City of Bellevue's "Scholarship for Child Care" program offers financial aid to qualifying residents, and many preschools also offer their own sliding-scale tuition or sibling discounts. Additionally, Washington State's Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF) provides Working Connections Child Care subsidies for eligible families.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Bellevue?
All licensed preschools in Washington State are regulated by DCYF. You can look up any facility's license, inspection reports, and any compliance history on the DCYF childcare search website. For a quality benchmark, look for programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or participating in Washington's Early Achievers quality rating and improvement system, which many top Bellevue preschools are part of.
What are the main types of preschool programs available in Bellevue?
Bellevue offers a diverse range of preschool philosophies, including play-based, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, faith-based, and academic preparatory models. Many are private, but you can also find cooperative preschools (co-ops) through Bellevue College's Parent Education program and public preschool options through the Bellevue School District for qualifying children with special needs or from low-income families.
When should I start applying for preschools in Bellevue, as waitlists can be long?
For the most sought-after preschools in Bellevue, it is recommended to start researching and touring facilities 12-18 months before your desired start date, often when your child is around 18 months old. Many popular schools begin their enrollment processes in January or February for the following September, and it's common to be placed on a waitlist, so applying to multiple programs is advisable.
What are key safety and operational factors specific to Bellevue that I should ask about?
Given Bellevue's geography and climate, inquire about outdoor play policies for rainy days and safe drop-off/pick-up procedures, as traffic can be heavy. Ask about their emergency preparedness plans for earthquakes, which are a regional risk. Also, verify staff-to-child ratios and background check policies, which must meet or exceed Washington State's licensing standards.
Nearby Cities
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