The Best Preschools in River Falls, WI
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in River Falls. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
KinderCare at River Falls
KinderCare Education
KinderCare at River Falls is a nationally accredited early learning center offering a comprehensive curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social skills. With certified teachers and robust safety protocols including secure entry systems, the center emphasizes play-based learning and school readiness. Parent reviews frequently highlight the nurturing environment, experienced staff, and strong communication, making it a top choice for families in the River Falls area.
Programs Offered:
The Goddard School of Hudson
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Hudson provides a F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that integrates play-based learning with academic foundations in literacy, STEM, and arts. With low student-to-teacher ratios, state-licensed educators, and a focus on safety including daily health checks, it serves the River Falls community with high parent satisfaction for its structured yet flexible curriculum and engaging activities.
Programs Offered:
St. Croix Valley Montessori School
Independent
St. Croix Valley Montessori School offers an authentic Montessori education guided by AMI-trained teachers, emphasizing child-directed learning, independence, and hands-on materials. The school features mixed-age classrooms, outdoor nature programs, and a strong community focus, with parents praising its individualized approach and peaceful environment. It is licensed and highly rated for its educational quality and safety standards, serving families from River Falls and the broader St. Croix Valley region.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in River Falls, WI:
What is the typical cost of preschool in River Falls, WI, and are there financial assistance options?
In River Falls, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $200 to $450, depending on the program's schedule, philosophy, and whether it's center-based or a licensed family childcare. For financial assistance, you can apply for Wisconsin's Child Care Subsidy Program (Wisconsin Shares) through Pierce or St. Croix County, and some local centers may offer sliding-scale fees or scholarships. It's also worth checking if your family qualifies for the state's 4K program, which is free at participating public and private sites.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in River Falls?
All licensed early care and education programs in Wisconsin are regulated by the Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can use the "YoungStar" search tool on the DCF website to find licensed providers in River Falls and view their YoungStar quality rating (1-5 stars). Additionally, you can review recent licensing reports and any violations for a specific center, which provides crucial insight into health, safety, and educational standards.
What are the main types of preschool programs available in River Falls?
River Falls offers several options, including the public school district's 4-year-old Kindergarten (4K) program, private childcare centers with preschool curricula, faith-based preschools (often at local churches), and licensed family childcare homes. The River Falls School District's 4K is a part-day program hosted at various community sites, while private centers often offer full-day care with extended hours to accommodate working parents.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in River Falls, as waitlists can be common?
For the most popular programs, especially the school district's 4K and sought-after private centers, you should begin your search and inquiries at least 12-18 months before your child's intended start date. Many programs in River Falls open enrollment for the following fall in January or February, and waitlists can form quickly. For infant and toddler spots that transition into preschool, securing a place even earlier is highly recommended.
Are there preschools in River Falls that offer specialized programs or philosophies, like Montessori or nature-based learning?
Yes, River Falls has a growing variety of program philosophies. You can find Montessori-inspired classrooms within some local centers, and the area's natural landscape supports several programs with strong outdoor and nature-based components. For specific approaches, it's best to contact centers directly to ask about their curriculum; the University of Wisconsin-River Falls also operates a laboratory preschool that serves as a training site and often implements research-based practices.
Nearby Cities
Explore preschools in cities near River Falls:
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Wisconsin or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.