Best Pre-K Schools & Programs in Columbus, OH
Discover the joy of early learning at La Petite Academy. Whether caring for your baby, preparing your preschooler for kindergarten, or supporting your elementary student (up to age 12) in the morning...
Pre-K
Your child’s school readiness is the most important thing to us and that’s the focus of our Pre-K program. Building on Preschool learning, we focus on problem solving, responsive listening, language usage, and social skills. Our Focus on Literacy™ program features in-school and at-home activities designed to improve your child’s literacy and cognition in areas such as vocabulary development and alphabet knowledge. We’re also here when you need us. Ask your school about flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule.
Preschool
For any child, preschool education is an essential step on the path to kindergarten. We want the best for your child and that’s why this program focuses on their personal development with customized curriculum and lesson plans to meet their individual developmental needs. In this classroom, children are given an increasing sense of independence, while also learning how to relate to others through large-group activities which are an essential part of the day. We’re also here when you need us. Ask your school about flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule.
Also offers: Drop-In Care
Responds quickly
Enchanted Care preschools provide exceptional early childhood education for children ages 6 weeks to Pre-K. We combine learning experiences and structured play in a fun, safe, and nurturing...
Pre-K
Our Pre-K program prepares children for kindergarten and beyond by fostering classroom readiness skills, nurturing social-emotional growth through our character education program, and strengthening literacy and math skills. With our Links to Learning curriculum, your child will begin to express ideas through writing, solve math equations, develop an understanding and appreciation for diversity, and work together to create a strong classroom community. For children who miss the kindergarten cut-off, we offer additional academic rigor.
Pre-K 2
Our Pre-K 2 program is designed for children who have completed Pre-K, or whose birth dates are after the kindergarten cut-off. This program further builds on skills developed in Pre-K, but with additional levels of academic rigor and enrichment opportunities to create higher levels of cognitive reasoning and understanding.
Also offers: Intermediates
Responds quickly
The Goddard School of Gahanna is a private preschool center with highly qualified teachers. Our center features an indoor gym, a rock wall for climbing, and outdoor playgrounds. We offer a range of...
Pre-Kindergarten
As children prepare for Kindergarten, our Pre-K classroom offers exciting opportunities for them to develop the skills they will need while making friends and exploring the world around them. Our Pre-Kindergarten program helps your child learn more about themselves, others and the world around them. Teachers engage in play with students, helping them to develop their social skills and learn more about effective communication. Our Wonder of Learning™ curriculum emphasizes a child-led, teacher-guided approach, encouraging interactive, purposeful learning experiences that allows students to grow their math and literacy skills, preparing them for Kindergarten and beyond.
Preschool Classroom
In our Preschool classroom, children start their journeys into a cooperative learning environment where they can discover interests and learn in a more structured setting. At The Goddard School®, we recognize that classrooms are made up of many unique children and teachers work to create engaging, innovative, play-based lessons with the interests and needs of every child in mind. Through the power of asking a question, your child will learn how to seek answers and advocate for themselves in the classroom. The Wonder of Learning™ curriculum takes your child's natural curiosity and encourages them to ask even more questions because asking questions fuels learning. When children want to know something, they learn faster and learning becomes an understanding that lasts a lifetime.
Responds quickly
We’re excited to join forces with local families to offer an extended educational opportunity. Franklin Learning Academy (FLA) now offers two tracks for children ages two-and-a-half through second...
Pre-K
Children in the Pathfinders Classroom will be asked to complete more concrete tasks so they’re prepared for the next steps in their education. Our goal is to ensure your child has mastered all the necessary skills to enter Kindergarten by providing individualized planning, challenging your child, and considering their progress. Math, science, writing, and reading are emphasized. Small group activities strengthen social- and problem-solving skills. Key Kindergarten-required skills are practiced and perfected. Prices are subject to change.
Junior Kindergarten
This option is a great in-between step for students who miss the state’s age cutoff, are getting ready for Kindergarten or would benefit from differentiated curriculum prior to starting school. The Junior Inspectors Classroom focuses on math, science, early literacy, writing and social skills to prepare children for Kindergarten—and the rest of their schooling career. Students in the Junior Inspectors Classroom will gain critical academic building blocks that align with state learning standards and grow their social-emotional, developmental, and school readiness skills. Prices are subject to change.
Responds quickly
Primrose School of Upper Arlington is a private preschool offering Balanced Learning® early education and child care. Programs include Infant, Toddler, Early Preschool, Preschool Pathways, Preschool,...
Pre-Kindergarten
In our Pre-Kindergarten program, your child begins to develop emergent reading, writing, science, technology, engineering and math skills within large-group, small-group and independent settings.
Preschool Pathways
Our Preschool Pathways program provides a “bridge” between our Early Preschool and Preschool classrooms for children whose birthdays will miss the cutoff date for kindergarten entrance.
Also offers: Preschool
Responds quickly
Primrose School of Reynoldsburg is a private preschool offering Balanced Learning® early education and child care, conveniently located on Brice Road N near Rose Hill Elementary School and Civic Park....
Pre-Kindergarten
In our Pre-Kindergarten program, your child begins to develop emergent reading, writing, science, technology, engineering and math skills within large-group, small-group and independent settings.
Preschool
Your preschooler is beginning to connect letters, sounds and numbers, expanding their world through reading and math. They’re building critical-thinking skills, early physical fitness and an understanding of nutrition. Our teachers support that learning and encourage your child to think in new and different ways.
Also offers: Preschool Pathways
Responds quickly
Primrose School of Grandview is a private preschool offering Balanced Learning® early education and child care, conveniently located on Olentangy River Road near Lennox Town Center and Trinity...
Pre-Kindergarten
In our Pre-Kindergarten program, your child begins to develop emergent reading, writing, science, technology, engineering and math skills within large-group, small-group and independent settings.
Preschool Pathways
Our Preschool Pathways program provides a “bridge” between our Early Preschool and Preschool classrooms for children whose birthdays will miss the cutoff date for kindergarten entrance.
Also offers: Preschool
Responds quickly
Primrose School of Columbus Downtown is a private preschool offering Balanced Learning® early education and child care, conveniently located on E. Town Street near Capitol Square and Grant Medical...
Pre-Kindergarten
In our Pre-Kindergarten program, your child begins to develop emergent reading, writing, science, technology, engineering and math skills within large-group, small-group and independent settings.
Preschool
Your preschooler is beginning to connect letters, sounds and numbers, expanding their world through reading and math. They’re building critical-thinking skills, early physical fitness and an understanding of nutrition. Our teachers support that learning and encourage your child to think in new and different ways.
Also offers: Preschool Pathways
Responds quickly
Coming Soon! Tierra Encantada of Worthington provides high-quality childcare for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers and is conveniently located just off U.S. Route 23 (N High Street), at the...
Pre-K
Our pre-k program will provide your child with immersive experiences that are adapted to the developmental needs of this age group. Our classrooms are filled with a variety of engaging musical experiences to support your little ones development. Take a moment to listen (and dance) to one of our playlists. Children engage with colors, textures, and a variety of materials each day, to creatively express themselves and the world they see! Our rooms are lined with shelves of toys that encourage children to investigate, discover, reason, and organize their knowledge… all while playing with friends!
Preschool
Children start their journeys into a more structured classroom setting designed to set them up for kindergarten success. Our classrooms are filled with a variety of engaging musical experiences to support your little ones development. Take a moment to listen (and dance) to one of our playlists. Children engage with colors, textures, and a variety of materials each day, to creatively express themselves and the world they see! Our rooms are lined with shelves of toys that encourage children to investigate, discover, reason, and organize their knowledge… all while playing with friends!
Responds quickly
Speaks Spanish
Primrose School of Worthington is a private preschool offering Balanced Learning® early education and child care, conveniently located on North High Street off I-270 near The Shops at Worthington....
Pre-Kindergarten
In our Pre-Kindergarten program, your child begins to develop emergent reading, writing, science, technology, engineering and math skills within large-group, small-group and independent settings.
Preschool
Your preschooler is beginning to connect letters, sounds and numbers, expanding their world through reading and math. They’re building critical-thinking skills, early physical fitness and an understanding of nutrition. Our teachers support that learning and encourage your child to think in new and different ways.
Responds quickly
At Blended Minds Learning Academy, we use a research-based curriculum to support the holistic development of each child. Our philosophy focuses on learning through play in a safe, nurturing...
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Childcare center offering early education and enrichment with a focus on literacy, art, early academics, physical education, and social skills. Site utilizes a play-based curriculum designed to...
Pre-Kindergarten
Our Pre-K is designed to prepare children for kindergarten. We put a strong emphasis on literacy and language arts. Daily routine includes reading, writing, math, science, movement, art, and music. We model respect and kindness, and children learn how to resolve conflicts and make friends.
Pre-School/Pre-K
Children are encouraged to think independently and express individuality. Your child’s day is filled with creating, experimenting, and imaginary play. Curriculum includes math, science, language. Children begin to expand social skills and make friends. School readiness is taught to 4 yr olds.
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Community Montessori Columbus (CMC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit offering accessible, fully-implemented Montessori education and child care for children ages 2.5 to 6 years. Our experienced team, with...
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Play-based community preschool offering child-led learning opportunities for all children regardless of their faith, race, or family makeup. Four or five days, part time or full time, are available to...
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Give your child an excellent start at Guidepost Montessori at Worthington. Our accredited programs for Infant, Toddler, Preschool and Kindergarten age children offer a safe, inspiring space to learn,...
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Childcare and early education for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Curriculum is designed to provide a balance of group and individual activities that promote creativity and exploration. Meeting...
Prekindergarten Program
Final year of preschool designed to prepare children for kindergarten. Program puts a strong emphasis on literacy and language arts. Daily routine includes: reading, writing, math, science, Spanish instruction, movement, art, and music. Teachers model respect and kindness, and children learn how to resolve conflicts and build friendships. Children also learn to express themselves through writing and telling complete stories.
Preschool Program
Hands-on preschool program with a strong focus on school readiness. Children are encouraged to think independently and express their individuality. Your child’s day is filled with creating, experimenting, and imaginary play. Curriculum includes: math, science, language, and spanish. Children begin to expand social skills and build friendships.
Speaks Spanish
Our Experience Learning Center is a childcare facility located in Whitehall Ohio. The center provides care and early education programs for young children.
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Catholic preschool program serving children and families in the Columbus area. Teachers use the Creative Curriculum to prepare children for school. Activities are age-appropriate and hands-on. ...
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Villa Montessori Polaris offers a warm, nurturing environment for children ages 6 weeks to 6 years, where exploration, creativity, and independent thinking are at the heart of every day. Our...
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Childcare facility offering educational programs and services for infants through preschool-aged children. Classrooms are set up with a home-like environment that encourage children to explore and...
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Childcare program offering age-appropriate education, guided programs, and games.
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Catholic preschool program offering academics and spiritual education for children as they prepare for elementary school. Curriculum emphasizes exploration and experimentation through play and...
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This is a high-quality, fully inclusive program located in McCampbell Hall on the Med Center campus.
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Overbrook Preschool, a part-time preschool located in the Clintonville area, is a loving and enriching environment in which children can grow and learn in a safe and secure setting. The Preschool...
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Christian preschool program offered on the campus of a private Christian School. Curriculum blends hands-on learning with faith-based education, in part through regular chapel and prayer. Schedule...
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Christian preschool program serving children and families in the Columbus area. Teachers provide a variety of educational, recreational and spiritual activities. Classrooms are set up with materials...
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Faith-based early learning program providing care and educational lessons for toddlers, preschool, and school-age students. Children engage in art, music, nature, physical activities, creative time,...
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Christian program that provides social, physical, cognitive, and spiritual development opportunities. Academics are introduced through a themed curriculum and are geared towards school readiness....
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Preschool program operating as a ministry of the Lytham Road campus of Upper Arlington Lutheran Church. Curriculum is a blend of play-based and faith-based and places an emphasis on Christian values....
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Religious center offers childcare services to toddlers and preschool-aged children. A combination of structured and non-structured activities form the curriculum. Daily activities include academics,...
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Preschool and childcare center offering infant, toddler, preschool, pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and summer programs. Curriculum is based off of The Sisters of the Poor Child Jesus, Diocese of...
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Childcare center offering early education and enrichment with a focus on literacy, art, early academics, physical education, and social skills. Utilizing a play-based curriculum designed to inspire a...
Prekindergarten Program
Final year of preschool designed to prepare children for kindergarten. Program puts a strong emphasis on literacy and language arts. Daily routine includes: reading, writing, math, science, Spanish instruction, movement, art, and music. Teachers model respect and kindness, and children learn how to resolve conflicts and build friendships. Children also learn to express themselves through writing and telling complete stories.
Preschool Program
Hands-on preschool program with a strong focus on school readiness. Children are encouraged to think independently and express their individuality. Your child’s day is filled with creating, experimenting, and imaginary play. Curriculum includes: math, science, language, and spanish. Children begin to expand social skills and build friendships.
Speaks Spanish
Here at Next Generation learning center, we thrive to make sure your child and yourself have them best experience with childcare. Our teachers are well trained to make sure your children have a fun...
Speaks Spanish
Christian preschool located on the campus of Briggs Road Baptist Church. The program offers learning experiences in the areas of spiritual, social-emotional, physical, cognitive, and language...
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Program that provides care and preschool education with an emphasis on hands on learning. An emphasis is placed on family support and community. Activities include sensory play, manipulatives, art,...
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Facility that provides preschool education in Montessori style indoor and outdoor learning spaces. Children will have opportunities for learning through exploration and in mixed age groups. Activities...
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Childcare program serving children in the Columbus area. Teachers provide a variety of activities that work on all areas of development. Infants work on motor skills and gaining strength, as well as...
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Center is a combination of early lifestyle, health/ wellness educational programs. Students participate in educational learning experiences that develop the child’s mind, body and spirit to help them...
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Program that provides care and preschool education with an emphasis on diversity and accessibility. Academics are introduced through the Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies GOLD program....
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Daycare center and preschool providing flexible scheduling for families. Program includes a combination of structured activities and unstructured play, group and individual learning, quiet and active...
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Play based program that provides preschool education geared towards school readiness. Activities include dramatic play, art, manipulatives, science projects, music, reading, and active play. An...
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Childcare and preschool programs operating as a ministry of First Community Church North Campus. Children graduate based on readiness and skill sets instead of age alone. Preschool children stay with...
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Interfaith, interracial preschool with an emphasis on the emotional, social, spiritual, physical, and intellectual growth of each preschooler. Themed-based curriculum is used to teach concepts in...
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Program providing care and development opportunities to young children. Activities include reading, dramatic play, crafts, and holiday celebrations. Facility includes an outdoor play space.
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Childcare and early education for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Curriculum is designed to provide a balance of group and individual activities that promote creativity and exploration. Meeting...
Prekindergarten Program
Final year of preschool designed to prepare children for kindergarten. Program puts a strong emphasis on literacy and language arts. Daily routine includes: reading, writing, math, science, Spanish instruction, movement, art, and music. Teachers model respect and kindness, and children learn how to resolve conflicts and build friendships. Children also learn to express themselves through writing and telling complete stories.
Preschool Program
Hands-on preschool program with a strong focus on school readiness. Children are encouraged to think independently and express their individuality. Your child’s day is filled with creating, experimenting, and imaginary play. Curriculum includes: math, science, language, and spanish. Children begin to expand social skills and build friendships.
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
The Goddard School of Worthington Hills is a private preschool center with highly qualified teachers. Our center features an outdoor classroom and playground where children can explore and learn in...
Pre-Kindergarten
As children prepare for Kindergarten, our Pre-K classroom offers exciting opportunities for them to develop the skills they will need while making friends and exploring the world around them. Our Pre-Kindergarten program helps your child learn more about themselves, others and the world around them. Teachers engage in play with students, helping them to develop their social skills and learn more about effective communication. Our Wonder of Learning™ curriculum emphasizes a child-led, teacher-guided approach, encouraging interactive, purposeful learning experiences that allows students to grow their math and literacy skills, preparing them for Kindergarten and beyond.
Preschool Classroom
In our Preschool classroom, children start their journeys into a cooperative learning environment where they can discover interests and learn in a more structured setting. At The Goddard School®, we recognize that classrooms are made up of many unique children and teachers work to create engaging, innovative, play-based lessons with the interests and needs of every child in mind. Through the power of asking a question, your child will learn how to seek answers and advocate for themselves in the classroom. The Wonder of Learning™ curriculum takes your child's natural curiosity and encourages them to ask even more questions because asking questions fuels learning. When children want to know something, they learn faster and learning becomes an understanding that lasts a lifetime.
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
The Goddard School of Reynoldsburg is a private preschool center with highly qualified teachers. Our center features an indoor gym, outdoor playgrounds, and a dance studio. We offer a range of...
Pre-Kindergarten
As children prepare for Kindergarten, our Pre-K classroom offers exciting opportunities for them to develop the skills they will need while making friends and exploring the world around them. Our Pre-Kindergarten program helps your child learn more about themselves, others and the world around them. Teachers engage in play with students, helping them to develop their social skills and learn more about effective communication. Our Wonder of Learning™ curriculum emphasizes a child-led, teacher-guided approach, encouraging interactive, purposeful learning experiences that allows students to grow their math and literacy skills, preparing them for Kindergarten and beyond.
Preschool Classroom
In our Preschool classroom, children start their journeys into a cooperative learning environment where they can discover interests and learn in a more structured setting. At The Goddard School®, we recognize that classrooms are made up of many unique children and teachers work to create engaging, innovative, play-based lessons with the interests and needs of every child in mind. Through the power of asking a question, your child will learn how to seek answers and advocate for themselves in the classroom. The Wonder of Learning™ curriculum takes your child's natural curiosity and encourages them to ask even more questions because asking questions fuels learning. When children want to know something, they learn faster and learning becomes an understanding that lasts a lifetime.
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Childcare and early education for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Curriculum is designed to provide a balance of group and individual activities that promote creativity and exploration. Meeting...
Speaks Spanish
Our center offers childcare services to children from infancy to school age. We are all-inclusive care providing diapers, wipes, freshly prepared meals, and more. We use a curated curriculum that...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Our center offers childcare services to children from infancy to school age. We are all-inclusive care providing diapers, wipes, freshly prepared meals, and more. We use a curated curriculum that...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Guides
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Child Care Costs in Ohio: A Comprehensive Overview
Curious how much daycare or preschool really costs in Ohio? We break down average childcare rates by city, age, and program type—based on real data from local providers.
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What is the difference between preschool, Pre-K, and TK?
Preschool, Pre-K, and Transitional Kindergarten (TK) are all great options for children, depending on their ages and academic needs. Learn the difference.
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What is Universal Pre-K?
Universal Pre-K is a free, state-funded program for four-year-olds designed to introduce children to the pre-academic skills needed for Kindergarten.
FAQs About Columbus Pre-K Programs
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At what age should I enroll my child in Pre-K?
- In most states, children start Pre-K around age four. Depending on when you live, appllications may be due months before they're eligible to attend.
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What is Pre-K?
- Pre-Kindergarten, commonly known as Pre-K, serves children around four years old. Children learn the necessary skills for future academic success.
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Do public schools have Pre-K?
- Yes, some public schools offer Pre-K programs. These programs are often free for qualifying families, though availability depends on your school district. Age requirements and program length vary by state, so it’s best to check with your local district.