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Preschool Guide

Finding the Right Preschool for Your Child

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 » 

 

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Listing of Preschools

Scroll to see Cuyahoga listings followed by Lake County then Geauga County.

CUYAHOGA

Cleveland Metropolitan School District
(216) 838-0110
ClevelandMetroSchools.org/EarlyEd

It is the vision of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) that every student in early childhood grades pre-K through grade three will be successful in a rigorous instructional program.  CMSD’s Early Childhood Program addresses the language and cognitive development of students in addition to social and emotional needs and the physical needs of every child.

The mission of the Early Childhood Office is to create a rich and stimulating, child-centered environment in every classroom. Parents will find developmentally-appropriate teaching strategies in a center-based setting in every classroom.  CMSD continually strives to optimize the conditions for learning for their youngest learners.  Each student is valued for his or her unique qualities, experiences and learning style as they work toward the ultimate goal of becoming successful and independent learners.

Visitclevelandmetroschools.org/choosecmsd to see the required documents for enrollment and their preschool locations.

Call (216) 838-3675 to enroll today – seats are limited!


Cleveland Montessori
12510 Mayfield Road, Cleveland
(216) 421-0700

Cleveland Montessori has been serving the Little Italy and Greater Cleveland community for over 28 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
(216) 932-4177


Corpus Christi Academy Preschool
5655 Mayfield Road, Lyndhurst
440-449-4242 ext. 102
www.corpuschristiacad.org

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


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


Laurel School
www.LaurelSchool.org
(216) 464-0946
Butler Campus
7420 Fairmount Road, Russell Township
Lyman Campus
One Lyman Circle, Shaker Heights


Mandel JCC Early Childhood Program
26001 S. Woodland Road, Beachwood
(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).


Our Lady of the Lake School
175 East 200th Street, Euclid
(216) 481-6824


Our Redeemer Lutheran Preschool
7196 SOM Center Road, Solon
(440) 248-4066
www.orlcsolon.org 

Our Redeemer Lutheran Preschool, located in Solon near the Twinsburg border, provides an early childhood education based on the Christian faith that fully prepares children for kindergarten.  

They believe that every child is a child of God and that all children can learn and learn best in a safe, secure, and loving Christian environment.  

Their goals are to nurture each child’s unique abilities, gifts, and talents through developmentally appropriate experiences and to acquaint their students and their families with the good news of Jesus’ love and salvation. 

Their curriculum is designed to be age and developmentally appropriate and follows the state of Ohio Early Learning and Development Standards. 

Activities are designed to enhance each individual child’s intellectual, spiritual, emotional, social, and physical growth. Hands-on learning is encouraged through participation in free play, art, music, large motor, science, math, literature, and language activities and is supplemented by field trips, visitors, and special activities. 

Classes are for children ages 3, 4 and 5.  They also provide weekly chapel, music, Spanish, sign language, and a lending library.


Ruffing Montessori School
3380 Fairmount Boulevard, Cleveland Heights
(216) 321-7571
www.ruffingmontessori.net


Saint Paschal Baylon Preschool
5360 Wilson Mills Road, Highland Heights
(440) 442-6766
www.saintpaschal.net


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

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


Hershey Montessori School
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. 

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
www.hoperidge.com/preschool


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.  

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) 943-0388


Lakeland Community College Teaching Learning Center/Campus Kids
7700 Clocktower Drive, Kirtland
(440) 525-7500
www.lakelandcc.edu/TLC


Madison Pre-K
(440) 428-5111
www.madisonschools.net


Mater Dei Academy Preschool
29840 Euclid Avenue, Wickliffe
(440) 585-0800
www.MaterDeiAcademy.us

Mater Dei Academy’s prekindergarten 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.  Their philosophy is that learning experiences encourage spiritual, intellectual, social and physical growth.

The preschool program for ages 3, 4, and 5 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 allowing your child the enjoyment of being a part of a group and accepting the need to share and cooperate.  Children develop math and early reading skills, and explore science through experiments.

For more information on their programs, please call the school office or visit their website.


Mentor Christian Preschool
8600 Lake Shore Boulevard, Mentor
(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 yr olds) with My Buddy & Me classes for 2.5-year-olds; full-time (4/5 yr olds—current wait list for 2023-2024)

St. Gabriel Learning Loft Preschool and St. Gabriel School have been preparing graduates for life through faith, learning, and love for over 50 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 2023-24.

 
St. Mary of the Assumption Early Education Readiness Program
8540 Mentor Avenue, Mentor
(440) 255-9781
www.stmarysmentor.org

Children in the St. Mary of the Assumption Early Education Readiness Program will explore their world through a variety of quality curriculum and center- based learning experiences.  They offer half-day programs for 3-year-olds, and half-day or full-day options for 4- and 5-year-olds.  They also offer  a one hour weekly program for 2- and 3-year-olds in the classroom with an adult to help introduce these younger children to a positive early learning environment.  

The teachers strive to provide a warm, safe, nurturing, Christ-centered learning environment to promote the spiritual, emotional, social, physical, and intellectual growth of children.   

For questions Please contact Elizabeth Looman at [email protected].


Small Hands Big Dreams Learning Centers
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

Saint Anselm School Early Childhood Education Program
13013 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland
(440) 729-7806
www.stanselmschool.org

St. Helen Preschool
12060 Kinsman Road, Newbury
(440) 564-7125
www.st-helen-school.com