The Best Preschools in JBLM, WA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in JBLM. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Kindercare Learning Center - Lakewood
Kindercare Education LLC
Kindercare Learning Center in Lakewood is a highly-rated early education facility serving the JBLM community with a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, and social-emotional development. The center maintains strong safety protocols, including secured entry and health screenings, and employs qualified teachers with early childhood credentials. Parents praise its structured learning environment and flexible scheduling, making it a top choice for military and civilian families seeking reliable preschool and childcare services.
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Bright Horizons at St. Joseph Medical Center
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Located near JBLM in Tacoma, Bright Horizons offers a nationally accredited early learning program with an emergent curriculum that encourages child-led exploration and STEM activities. The center features low student-to-teacher ratios, enhanced safety measures like keypad access, and teachers with degrees in early childhood education. It is particularly noted for its backup care options, supporting military families with unpredictable schedules, and has consistently high parent satisfaction for its nurturing and educational environment.
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JBLM Child Development Center - Lewis Main
U.S. Army Garrison JBLM
The JBLM Child Development Center on Lewis Main provides high-quality, accredited early childhood education specifically designed for military families, with a focus on resilience and developmentally appropriate practices. It boasts rigorous safety standards, including background-checked staff and secure facilities, and uses a curriculum aligned with NAEYC standards to promote school readiness. Parents highlight its affordability, convenience for base personnel, and strong community support, with programs tailored to accommodate deployment and training schedules.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in JBLM, WA:
What are the main types of preschool options available for military and civilian families in the JBLM area?
Families in the JBLM area have access to several options, including on-base Child Development Centers (CDCs) and Family Child Care (FCC) homes, which are accredited and prioritize military families. Off-base, there are private preschools, faith-based programs, and Washington State-licensed centers in surrounding communities like Lakewood, DuPont, and Lacey. The on-base programs often follow a curriculum aligned with the Department of Defense standards.
How does the priority enrollment system work for on-base preschools at JBLM, and how early should I apply?
On-base Child Development Centers at JBLM use a tiered priority system (e.g., active-duty military, DoD civilians, then others), with waiting lists often being long. It is strongly recommended to apply as soon as you have orders to the duty station, or at least 6-12 months in advance of your desired start date. You can register for the waitlist through the MilitaryChildCare.com website, which is the centralized system for all DoD childcare.
Are there any specific Washington State or JBLM requirements regarding preschool teacher qualifications I should look for?
Yes, Washington State requires lead teachers in licensed centers to have an Early Childhood Education (ECE) certificate or degree. On-base CDCs meet even stricter DoD certification requirements, which include background checks, annual training, and often a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. When evaluating off-base preschools, verifying state licensing and staff qualifications through the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is a key quality indicator.
What is the typical cost range for preschool in the JBLM area, and is there financial assistance for military families?
On-base CDCs use a sliding fee scale based on the family's total income, making costs more predictable and often lower than many private options. Off-base preschools in Lakewood or DuPont can range from $800 to $1,500+ per month. Military families may be eligible for fee assistance through programs like the Child Care Aware of America subsidy, which can help cover costs at off-base, state-licensed providers.
How can I assess the quality and safety of a preschool near JBLM, especially regarding emergency protocols?
First, verify the program's current licensing and any complaint history with the Washington State DCYF online lookup tool. For any preschool, ask specifically about their emergency evacuation and lockdown procedures, especially given JBLM's military training environment. On-base centers regularly conduct drills aligned with installation protocols, while off-base centers should have clear plans for natural disasters and other emergencies.
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