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The Best Preschools in Olympia, WA

Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Olympia. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.

3 Quality Preschools
4.5 Average Rating

KinderCare Learning Center - Olympia

KinderCare Education LLC

4.2/ 5.0
18 years experience

KinderCare's Olympia location is a highly-rated early learning center known for its balanced curriculum that focuses on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center maintains strong safety protocols, including secured access and trained staff in CPR and first aid. Parent reviews frequently highlight the qualified teachers, engaging activities, and supportive environment that prepares children for kindergarten. With over 15 years of service, it has built a reputation for reliability and educational quality in the Thurston County area.

Programs Offered:

DaycarePreschool ProgramsBefore and After School CareSummer Programs
1400 Cooper Point Rd SW, Olympia, WA 98502

Bright Horizons at Olympia

Bright Horizons Family Solutions

4.5/ 5.0
12 years experience

Bright Horizons in Olympia offers a research-based curriculum emphasizing whole-child development through play and structured learning. The center is praised for its low student-to-teacher ratios, safe and nurturing environment, and highly qualified educators with backgrounds in early childhood education. Parents report high satisfaction with the communication and individualized attention, noting strong kindergarten preparedness. Safety measures include background-checked staff and modern facilities, making it a trusted choice for families in the capital region.

Programs Offered:

Infant and Toddler CarePreschool EducationKindergarten ReadinessEnrichment Activities
700 Capitol Way N, Olympia, WA 98501

Montessori School of Olympia

Independent

4.7/ 5.0
22 years experience

The Montessori School of Olympia is a well-established independent preschool renowned for its authentic Montessori approach, fostering independence, curiosity, and academic foundation in a mixed-age setting. With certified Montessori teachers and a focus on hands-on learning, the school maintains excellent safety records and small class sizes. Parent reviews consistently commend the supportive community, individualized learning plans, and strong developmental outcomes. Founded over 20 years ago, it has a proven track record of high educational quality and parent satisfaction in the Olympia area.

Programs Offered:

Montessori EducationChildcareElementary ProgramsEnrichment Classes
1235 Eastside St SE, Olympia, WA 98501

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about preschools in Olympia, WA:

What is the average cost of preschool in Olympia, WA, and are there financial assistance programs available?

Full-time preschool in Olympia typically ranges from $900 to $1,400 per month. Washington State offers the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP), a free preschool program for qualifying families based on income. Additionally, many local preschools offer sliding scale tuition or scholarships, so it's always worth inquiring directly.

How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Olympia?

All licensed childcare and preschool programs in Washington are regulated by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). You can use the DCYF childcare search tool to find licensed providers in Olympia, view their licensing history, and check for any compliance issues. Looking for programs with Early Achievers ratings, Washington's quality rating system, is also a strong indicator of quality.

What are the common preschool program philosophies found in Olympia?

Olympia has a diverse mix of preschool approaches. You'll find nature-based and outdoor-focused programs that take advantage of the Pacific Northwest environment, Montessori schools, play-based cooperatives, and faith-based options. Many local programs also incorporate elements of social-emotional learning, which aligns with Washington state's early learning guidelines.

When should I start applying for preschools in Olympia, and what is the typical enrollment process?

For sought-after programs, especially co-ops and nature preschools, you should start researching and applying a full year in advance, as many have waitlists. The main enrollment season for a September start is often January through March. The process usually involves a tour, application submission, and sometimes a family interview or child visit.

Are there specific considerations for part-time vs. full-time preschool schedules in Olympia?

Yes, schedule options vary widely. Many community-based and co-op preschools in Olympia offer part-time schedules (e.g., 2-3 half-days per week), which are popular for younger preschoolers. Full-time programs are more common at childcare centers. Consider your family's needs and the program's structure, as some part-time programs require significant parent volunteer hours.

Finding the Right Fit: Exploring Christian Preschools in Olympia, WA

For parents in Olympia, the search for the perfect preschool can feel both exciting and overwhelming. You're looking for a place where your little one will not only learn their letters and numbers but also begin to understand the world through a lens of kindness, compassion, and faith. When you search for "christian preschools near me," you're likely seeking an environment that aligns with your family's values while providing a strong, nurturing foundation for early learning. Here in our community, you'll find several wonderful Christian preschool options, each with its own unique character and approach to blending faith with foundational education.

The beauty of a Christian preschool in Olympia is that it often extends the sense of community and care that defines our area. These programs typically integrate biblical principles, simple prayers, and character lessons about sharing, honesty, and love into the daily rhythm. It’s less about rigorous doctrine at this age and more about sowing seeds of faith through song, story, and play. As you begin your search, consider what aspects are most important for your family. Are you looking for a program affiliated with a specific denomination, or one with a more ecumenical Christian focus? Many local churches host preschools that welcome families from all backgrounds, creating a beautifully diverse classroom environment.

A key step is to schedule visits. Olympia is home to preschools in settings ranging from large church facilities to more intimate, home-like environments. When you tour, look beyond the obvious. Observe how the teachers interact with the children. Do they kneel down to eye level? Is the atmosphere patient and joyful? Ask about their curriculum: how do they incorporate faith-based learning alongside essential pre-academic skills like phonics, early math concepts, and social-emotional development? Inquire about their play-based philosophy—crucial for this age group—and how outdoor time is utilized, perhaps even in our famous drizzly weather, which builds resilience and a love for our Pacific Northwest landscape.

Practical considerations are just as important. Consider the logistics: location, schedule options (half-days or full days), and cost. Many Christian preschools in the Olympia area offer tuition assistance or sliding scale fees to support families. Don't hesitate to ask about this. Also, talk to other parents. The Olympia community is wonderfully connected; personal recommendations from neighbors at the farmers market or friends at your local playground can be invaluable.

Ultimately, choosing a Christian preschool is about finding a partner in your child's earliest educational journey. It’s a place where they can ask questions, discover the wonder of creation during a walk at Priest Point Park, and learn to treat their friends with the grace you teach at home. Trust your instincts as you visit. The right classroom will feel like an extension of the loving, values-driven environment you cultivate at home, right here in our beautiful Olympia community.

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