Preschool Guide
Finding the Right Preschool for Your Child
Tips to consider and questions to ask when searching for the perfect preschool for your child. (Includes a special preschool visit checklist and preschool vocabulary section at the end.) Read More »
Please tell them you learned about them in Today's Family!
Listing of Preschools
Scroll to see Cuyahoga listings followed by Lake County then Geauga County.
CUYAHOGA
Cleveland Montessori
Cleveland Montessori has been serving the Little Italy and Greater Cleveland community for nearly 30 years.
Students from preschool through eighth grade are met with respect and compassion as they strive to meet their individual potential in beautifully prepared classrooms that offer social, emotional and academic experiences in a diverse and unique urban setting.
A Cleveland Montessori education begins at the preschool level with the focus on developing independence, concentration and confidence to build a foundation for lifelong learning with multi-age children working and learning together. Close proximity to the resources of Little Italy and University Circle provides culturally rich extensions to classroom learning.
Applications for preschool (3- and 4-year-olds) are being accepted for the fall. Contact their admissions director for more information and to discuss enrollment for your child.
Corpus Christi Academy Preschool
Prekindergarten students will examine their world using a play-based approach that encourages critical thinking and builds confidence as the littlest Eagles learn to soar. Before-care and after-care options also available.
Creative Playrooms Montessori & Child Care Centers
They believe that children carry within them the full potential of the person they will someday become. They are continually at the forefront of innovation program development and continue to set industry standards. Their goal is always to ensure that the best interest of the total child remains the single most important consideration.
They offer programs for ages 6 weeks to 12 years old; infant/toddler, nursery school, prekindergarten, Montessori program, chartered private kindergarten, before- and after-school programs, and summer camp. Some activities offered are swimming lessons in their indoor pool, computer labs, music, gymnastics, Spanish classes, and science. Their experienced cooks serve breakfast, snacks and hot lunches.
Cleveland Metropolitan School District
(216) 838-0110Cleveland Montessori
12510 Mayfield Road, Cleveland
(216) 421-0700
www.clevelandmontessori.orgCleveland Montessori has been serving the Little Italy and Greater Cleveland community for nearly 30 years.
Students from preschool through eighth grade are met with respect and compassion as they strive to meet their individual potential in beautifully prepared classrooms that offer social, emotional and academic experiences in a diverse and unique urban setting.
A Cleveland Montessori education begins at the preschool level with the focus on developing independence, concentration and confidence to build a foundation for lifelong learning with multi-age children working and learning together. Close proximity to the resources of Little Italy and University Circle provides culturally rich extensions to classroom learning.
Applications for preschool (3- and 4-year-olds) are being accepted for the fall. Contact their admissions director for more information and to discuss enrollment for your child.
Communion of Saints School
2160 Stillman Road, Cleveland Heights
2160 Stillman Road, Cleveland Heights
(216) 932-4177
Corpus Christi Academy Preschool
5655 Mayfield Road, Lyndhurst
440-449-4242 ext. 102
The Corpus Christi Academy prekindergarten program offers both full- and half-day options to meet the needs of your family. The half-day program is offered M–F from 8:15–11:15 am and the full-day program is offered M–F from 8:15 am–2:15 pm. Prekindergarten students will examine their world using a play-based approach that encourages critical thinking and builds confidence as the littlest Eagles learn to soar. Before-care and after-care options also available.
Creative Playrooms Montessori & Child Care Centers
Solon (440) 248-3100
Independence (216) 524-8008
Parma (216) 898-9520
Strongsville (440) 572-9365
Westlake (440) 835-5858
Maple Hts. (216) 475-6464
At Creative Playrooms Montessori & Child Care Centers, their mission is to offer the highest quality, learning environment for the successful development of the total child, in clean, modern, and safe facilities. This is achieved through programs balancing individual experience, small group participation, and large group activities with nurturing, caring caregivers.They believe that children carry within them the full potential of the person they will someday become. They are continually at the forefront of innovation program development and continue to set industry standards. Their goal is always to ensure that the best interest of the total child remains the single most important consideration.
They offer programs for ages 6 weeks to 12 years old; infant/toddler, nursery school, prekindergarten, Montessori program, chartered private kindergarten, before- and after-school programs, and summer camp. Some activities offered are swimming lessons in their indoor pool, computer labs, music, gymnastics, Spanish classes, and science. Their experienced cooks serve breakfast, snacks and hot lunches.
Fairmount Early Childhood Center
24601 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood
(216) 464-2600
www.beachwoodschools.org/fairmount.aspx
24601 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood
(216) 464-2600
www.beachwoodschools.org/fairmount.aspx
Gilmour Academy
34001 Cedar Road, Gates Mills
(440) 473-8165
Gross Schechter Day School
27601 Fairmount Boulevard, Pepper Pike
(216) 763-1400
Horizon Child Development Center
1050 E 200th Street, Euclid
(216) 481-3830
2285 Columbus Road, Cleveland
(216) 344-3000
Horizon offers a program for children 6 weeks to age 13. They have an enhanced preschool and pre-K program that includes Creative Curriculum. They are the only center in Lake County to receive a grant from ODE to provide free preschool, for qualifying children who are 4 years old, from 9:00 am–11:30 am, Monday through Friday. Their summer program stimulates enthusiasm through their piano lessons and educational field trips. They believe that given the right to progress, children become empowered to achieve multiple tasks and develop a willingness to learn.
Whether your children are marvelous at math or adore science, Horizon empowers them to learn through their own curiosity and sense of wonder. They provide ongoing professional development by supporting an award-winning program. Contact their office for more information or to enroll your child.
Laurel School
www.LaurelSchool.org
(216) 464-0946Laurel School
www.LaurelSchool.org
Butler Campus
7420 Fairmount Road, Russell Township
Lyman Campus
One Lyman Circle, Shaker Heights
Laurel School, founded in 1896, is a nationally recognized college preparatory, independent day school for girls, kindergarten through grade 12, with a coeducational early childhood program. Named the #1 all-girls school in Ohio by Niche.com, its traditional Lyman Campus is in Shaker Heights and its 150-acre Butler Campus is in Novelty. The Butler Campus is home to competitive athletics and outdoor experiential learning, including grades 3–5, northeast Ohio’s first outdoor prekindergarten class, and its new environmental justice semester for 10th- and 11th-grade girls from any northeast Ohio school.
Laurel School, founded in 1896, is a nationally recognized college preparatory, independent day school for girls, kindergarten through grade 12, with a coeducational early childhood program. Named the #1 all-girls school in Ohio by Niche.com, its traditional Lyman Campus is in Shaker Heights and its 150-acre Butler Campus is in Novelty. The Butler Campus is home to competitive athletics and outdoor experiential learning, including grades 3–5, northeast Ohio’s first outdoor prekindergarten class, and its new environmental justice semester for 10th- and 11th-grade girls from any northeast Ohio school.
Laurel’s Center for Research on Girls (LCRG) was established in 2007, drawing on the school’s long history as a site of pioneering research on girls. LCRG conducts and sponsors original research on girls, harnesses existing research to shape the day-to-day education of girls and connects Laurel parents and teachers with research findings relevant to raising and educating girls.
RSVP for the April 13 all-school open house at LaurelSchool.org/OpenHouse.
Mandel JCC Early Childhood Program
26001 S. Woodland Road, Beachwood
(216) 831-0700, ext. 1375
mandeljcc.org/preschool
Montessori School of University Heights
(216) 831-0700, ext. 1375
mandeljcc.org/preschool
Montessori School of University Heights
23599 Cedar Road, Lyndhurst
(216) 381-8388
The Montessori School of University Heights is celebrating 50 years as a pre-primary school dedicated to helping the child become the unique person his/her Creator intended in a Christian atmosphere of peace, love, and respect. Their approach involves:- Providing comprehensive, individualized opportunities for growth. Each child is introduced to the materials as the child becomes ready for the concepts that the material embodies. Children develop order, concentration, coordination, independence, and self-discipline.
- Engaging children in a caring, supportive community. Their multi-age environment, serving children ages 3 through 6 years old, provides a family-like atmosphere. Children develop compassion and confidence.
- Respecting each child's developmental abilities and personality. Montessori children enjoy choosing their own work each day guided by adults who are sensitive to each child's unique personality. Children experience joy in learning.
They warmly encourage interested parents to schedule a personal tour.
The Nest Schools
www.TheNestSchool.com
The Nest Schools curriculum and program design incorporates the most current research in early development to best prepare children for the future in and out of the classroom. Each element of their Nest Play curriculum shares one goal: to help children love to learn.
The Nest believes that involving children in hands-on experiences is the true definition of teaching. Each day, they’re re-imagining learning through creative play opportunities and their enrichment programs Art of Living, Fit Buddies, and Paints and Pianos. They encourage children to wonder, question, work with their peers, and experiment with different possibilities.
Older preschoolers will participate in a literacy exposure and awareness program designed to build awareness and a foundation for strong literacy skills. The Nest Schools’ preschool program will also prepare children for the Kindergarten Readiness Assessment (KRA).
www.TheNestSchool.com
The Nest Schools curriculum and program design incorporates the most current research in early development to best prepare children for the future in and out of the classroom. Each element of their Nest Play curriculum shares one goal: to help children love to learn.
The Nest believes that involving children in hands-on experiences is the true definition of teaching. Each day, they’re re-imagining learning through creative play opportunities and their enrichment programs Art of Living, Fit Buddies, and Paints and Pianos. They encourage children to wonder, question, work with their peers, and experiment with different possibilities.
Older preschoolers will participate in a literacy exposure and awareness program designed to build awareness and a foundation for strong literacy skills. The Nest Schools’ preschool program will also prepare children for the Kindergarten Readiness Assessment (KRA).
Our Lady of the Lake School
175 East 200th Street, Euclid
(216) 481-6824
Ruffing Montessori School
3380 Fairmount Boulevard, Cleveland Heights
(216) 321-7571
www.ruffingmontessori.net
Ruffing Montessori School in Cleveland Heights is more than just a school for children ages 18 months through 8th Grade. It is a beloved community where bright and curious children are guided by experienced Montessori-trained faculty and immersed in a rigorous curriculum that prepares students to become independent thinkers and creative problem solvers.
(216) 321-7571
www.ruffingmontessori.net
Ruffing Montessori School in Cleveland Heights is more than just a school for children ages 18 months through 8th Grade. It is a beloved community where bright and curious children are guided by experienced Montessori-trained faculty and immersed in a rigorous curriculum that prepares students to become independent thinkers and creative problem solvers.
Walking through Ruffing’s classrooms, you will see students working with purpose and joy, and excelling academically with confidence and compassion. A Ruffing education offers children a global perspective with an understanding of the profound impact they can have on the world, preparing them for high school, college, and beyond.
Learn why Ruffing is the compelling school of choice by calling Ruffing’s admissions office or scheduling a tour online at www.ruffingmontessori.net.
Saint Paschal Baylon Preschool
5360 Wilson Mills Road, Highland Heights
(440) 442-6766
Saint Paschal Baylon Preschool
5360 Wilson Mills Road, Highland Heights
(440) 442-6766
St. Rita School Little Falcon Learning Center
33200 Baldwin Road, Solon
(440) 248-1350
www.stritaschool.com
The Little Falcon Learning Center offers parents a variety of schedule options. Parents can customize their child’s preschool schedule and even add on special programs like their Falcon Friday or Lunch Bunch. They offer half-day and full-day preschool options for all 3 year, 4 year and pre-K students. After-school childcare is available as well.
33200 Baldwin Road, Solon
(440) 248-1350
www.stritaschool.com
The Little Falcon Learning Center offers parents a variety of schedule options. Parents can customize their child’s preschool schedule and even add on special programs like their Falcon Friday or Lunch Bunch. They offer half-day and full-day preschool options for all 3 year, 4 year and pre-K students. After-school childcare is available as well.
University School
us.edu/summer
Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8
20701 Brantley Road, Shaker Heights
(216) 321-8260
Grades 9 to 12
2785 SOM Center Road, Hunting Valley
(216) 831-2200
YMCA of Greater Cleveland
www.clevelandymca.org
YMCA of Greater Cleveland child care programs are licensed by the State of Ohio and highly rated according to Step Up to Quality.
YMCA of Greater Cleveland child care programs are licensed by the State of Ohio and highly rated according to Step Up to Quality.
Childcare: The YMCA is one of the largest childcare providers in Greater Cleveland. Their goal is to deliver childcare programs in a positive environment where children can develop to their full potential. Their before- and after-school enrichment programs (known as Y-Club) provide safe, nurturing care so you can have peace of mind while you are at work or school.
Their curriculum helps support youth development and build positive communities through social-emotional learning. Their school-age program also offers fun weekly themes that align with Ohio’s K–12 state standards.
Preschool: Preschools at the Y are all about discovery. Kids can explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships and memories. Their programs focus on preparing children for kindergarten. Their curriculum is based on school readiness skills and is aligned with the Ohio Department of Education’s Early Learning and Development Standards.
Learn more online at www.clevelandymca.org.
LAKE COUNTY
All Saints School of St. John Vianney
28702 Euclid Avenue, Wickliffe
(440) 943-1395
www.allsaintssjv.org
Friends Early Learning Center
2846 SOM Center Road, Willoughby Hills
(440) 944-1026
www.friendselc.com
The Goddard School
7645 Fredle Drive, Concord Township
(440) 350-1333
www.GoddardSchool.com
Great Day Child Care Learning Center
Madison
2471 Hubbard Road
(440) 428-5993
Middlefield
14810 Madison Road (St. Rt. 528)
(440) 632-1832
Perry
4325 Manchester Road
(440) 259-8125
www.greatdaychildcare.com
www.allsaintssjv.org
Friends Early Learning Center
2846 SOM Center Road, Willoughby Hills
(440) 944-1026
www.friendselc.com
The Goddard School
7645 Fredle Drive, Concord Township
(440) 350-1333
www.GoddardSchool.com
Great Day Child Care Learning Center
Madison
2471 Hubbard Road
(440) 428-5993
Middlefield
14810 Madison Road (St. Rt. 528)
(440) 632-1832
Perry
4325 Manchester Road
(440) 259-8125
www.greatdaychildcare.com
10229 Prouty Road, Concord Township
(440) 357-0918
www.Hershey-Montessori.org
At Hershey Montessori School, classrooms are called “communities” where students work in multi-age groups so they can learn from and interact with others of diverse ages and interests. These programs include the Parent-Infant Program (2 months to 12 months), the Young Child Community (12 months to 36 months), Children’s House (3 to 6 ½ years), Elementary (6 to 12 years) and Adolescent Community (12 to 18 years). Students are given blocks of uninterrupted time to figure out a problem, to ask questions of their teachers, or share their passion for a subject with another student. They work and learn at their own pace and make choices regarding which activities they want to take part in. When children are given a choice, they are naturally more engaged, interested, and happy to go to school.
At Hershey Montessori School, classrooms are called “communities” where students work in multi-age groups so they can learn from and interact with others of diverse ages and interests. These programs include the Parent-Infant Program (2 months to 12 months), the Young Child Community (12 months to 36 months), Children’s House (3 to 6 ½ years), Elementary (6 to 12 years) and Adolescent Community (12 to 18 years). Students are given blocks of uninterrupted time to figure out a problem, to ask questions of their teachers, or share their passion for a subject with another student. They work and learn at their own pace and make choices regarding which activities they want to take part in. When children are given a choice, they are naturally more engaged, interested, and happy to go to school.
For more information call (440) 357-0918, email [email protected], or visit www.Hershey-Montessori.org.
Hope Ridge Preschool
9870 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Mentor
(440) 639-8817
9870 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Mentor
(440) 639-8817
www.hoperidge.com/preschool
Horizon Child Development Center
8303 Tyler Boulevard, Mentor
(440) 205-8420
1050 E. 200th Street, Euclid
(216) 481-3830
Horizon Child Development Center
8303 Tyler Boulevard, Mentor
(440) 205-8420
1050 E. 200th Street, Euclid
(216) 481-3830
www.horizonchildcare.com
Horizon offers a program for children 6 weeks to age 13. They have an enhanced preschool and pre-K program that includes Creative Curriculum. They are the only center in Lake County to receive a grant from ODE to provide free preschool, for qualifying children who are 4 years old, from 9:00 am–11:30 am, Monday through Friday. Their summer program stimulates enthusiasm through their piano lessons and educational field trips. They believe that given the right to progress, children become empowered to achieve multiple tasks and develop a willingness to learn.
Horizon offers a program for children 6 weeks to age 13. They have an enhanced preschool and pre-K program that includes Creative Curriculum. They are the only center in Lake County to receive a grant from ODE to provide free preschool, for qualifying children who are 4 years old, from 9:00 am–11:30 am, Monday through Friday. Their summer program stimulates enthusiasm through their piano lessons and educational field trips. They believe that given the right to progress, children become empowered to achieve multiple tasks and develop a willingness to learn.
Whether your children are marvelous at math or adore science, Horizon empowers them to learn through their own curiosity and sense of wonder. They provide ongoing professional development by supporting an award-winning program. Contact their office for more information or to enroll your child.
Lake Geauga United Head Start
Painesville Center
350 Cedarbrook Drive, Painesville
(440) 392-5636
West Center
32114 Vine Street, Willowick
(440) 943-0388Lake Geauga United Head Start
Painesville Center
350 Cedarbrook Drive, Painesville
(440) 392-5636
West Center
32114 Vine Street, Willowick
7700 Clocktower Drive, Kirtland
(440) 525-7500
www.lakelandcc.edu/TLC
Love’s Learning Loft
www.loveslearninglofts.com
Mentor
6720 Center Street
(440) 534-1025
Chesterland
7976 Mayfield Road Suite #200
(440) 688-5683 (LOVE)
This year, Love’s Learning Loft is offering in-house and off-site field trips. In-house field trips include things like a petting zoo, pony rides and a magician. Off-site includes a trip to the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo just to name a few. Their goal for 2024 is to focus on family and to make Love’s the most enjoyable experience for all children and their families.
Plus, Love’s Learning Loft has year-round childcare for children 6 weeks through prekindergarten. There are individual lessons plans for infants. All lesson plans for toddlers through pre-k align with the state standards and Step Up to Quality expectations and incorporate circle time, reading, art, small and large group activities for cognitive and physical development.
Starting 24/25 school year they will offer before- and after-school care. Bellflower and Fairfax will be bussing to and from Love’s. Bussing to and from Chesterland will continue.
For more info visit them online at www.loveslearninglofts.com.
29840 Euclid Avenue, Wickliffe
(440) 585-0800
www.MaterDeiAcademy.us
Mater Dei Academy’s preschool program for ages 4 and 5 strives to provide a creative noncompetitive environment for the young child. Interaction with other children and adults in an atmosphere of Christian love and concern, promotes the healthy development of each child as an individual. The philosophy is that learning experiences should encourage spiritual, intellectual, social and physical growth.
Mater Dei Academy’s preschool program for ages 4 and 5 strives to provide a creative noncompetitive environment for the young child. Interaction with other children and adults in an atmosphere of Christian love and concern, promotes the healthy development of each child as an individual. The philosophy is that learning experiences should encourage spiritual, intellectual, social and physical growth.
The Little Knights’ preschool program creates a setting where your child will develop a positive self-image and become aware of the fact that he/she is a child of God and will grow in His love while developing skills, increasing independence and experiencing accomplishments. Small class size allows for individual attention while still allowing your child the enjoyment of being a part of a group and experiencing the opportunities to learn how to share and cooperate. Children develop math and early reading skills, and explore science through experiments.
For more information on The Little Knights’ preschool program, please call the school office at (440) 585-0800 or visit their website at www.materdeiacademy.us.
Mentor Christian Preschool
8600 Lake Shore Boulevard, MentorMentor Christian Preschool
(440) 257-3172
www.mentorchristian.com
St. Gabriel Learning Loft Preschool & St. Gabriel School
9921 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Concord Township
(440) 354-7574
www.st-gabrielschool.org
Part-time preschool (3/4/5 year-olds) with My Buddy & Me classes for 2-year-olds; full-time junior kindergarten for children age 4 by September 30.
Part-time preschool (3/4/5 year-olds) with My Buddy & Me classes for 2-year-olds; full-time junior kindergarten for children age 4 by September 30.
St. Gabriel Learning Loft Preschool and St. Gabriel School have been preparing graduates for life through faith, learning, and love for over 60 years. With state-of-the art facilities and one-to-one technology, the preschool offers developmentally appropriate practices for young children that facilitates a deep love of learning to build a strong foundation.
Through compassion, dedication, and expertise, their teachers ignite learning and see their vocation as a ministry. Their school is a second home where children learn about the world around them and most importantly their wonder, awe, and love for Jesus and His creation. The preschool has been voted #1 preschool in Lake County for four years in a row.
For part-time openings for the Learning Loft Preschool call for a tour at (440) 354-7574.
For full-time, 4- to 5-year-old preschool call (440) 354-7858 or visit St-GabrielSchool.org. Please note full-time program has a waiting list for 2024-25 school.
St. Mary of the Assumption Early Education Readiness Program
8540 Mentor Avenue, Mentor
(440) 255-9781
www.stmarysmentor.org
St. Mary of the Assumption Early Education Readiness Program
8540 Mentor Avenue, Mentor
(440) 255-9781
www.stmarysmentor.org
Small Hands Big Dreams Learning Centers
8465 Market Street, Mentor
(440) 255-7775
9823 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland
(440) 367-2145
www.SmallHandsBigDreams.com
8465 Market Street, Mentor
(440) 255-7775
9823 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland
(440) 367-2145
www.SmallHandsBigDreams.com
GEAUGA COUNTY
Lake Geauga United Head Start
Geauga Center
12406 Madison Road, Huntsburg
(440) 636-5387
Geauga Center
12406 Madison Road, Huntsburg
(440) 636-5387
Saint Anselm School Early Childhood Education Program
13013 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland
(440) 729-7806
www.stanselmschool.org
13013 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland
(440) 729-7806
www.stanselmschool.org