Finding preschools and early childhood education that fit your family can feel daunting.
With so many factors to consider, from education philosophies and campus features to daily activities and routines, it’s hard to know where to begin. That’s why we created this guide to round up a variety of early-learning options across Maryland, Virginia and DC, to help you narrow down your search.
Key takeaways
- The bigger picture: Finding the right preschool in the DMV doesn’t have to be overwhelming — the DC, Maryland and Virginia area offers a wide range of early childhood education options, from play-based Montessori programs and bilingual schools to faith-based campuses and public charter options.
- More details: The schools on this list serve children from as young as 6 weeks through kindergarten, with a variety of philosophies and approaches — including inquiry-based learning, STEAM-focused curricula, outdoor classrooms and Spanish immersion — giving families plenty of ways to find a program that aligns with their values and their child’s needs.
- Why this matters: The preschool years are foundational for social, emotional and academic development. Choosing a school with a thoughtful, research-informed approach, and a strong sense of community, can set children up for a confident, curious start to their educational journey.
Featured schools
In this section, Washington Parent’s advertising partners share their top preschool offerings.
Christ Episcopal School
Address: 109 S Washington St., Rockville, MD. Additional locations in DC and VA.
Noteworthy attributes:
- Values-based programs that emphasize play, discovery and fostering meaningful relationships
- Weekly special subject area classes like art, STEM, physical education, music and Spanish
- Variety of classes for each age group, including preschool 2s and 3s, as well as prekindergarten for students aged 4
- Before- and after-school care programs
- 2025 Washington Parent Pick winner
About the school: At Christ Episcopal School, preschool is more than childcare; it’s where a lifelong journey of curiosity, confidence and joyful learning truly begins. Nestled in the heart of Rockville, the preschool welcomes children ages 2-4 into a vibrant, nurturing space where wonder and a love of learning are woven into everything they do. Their college-educated, early childhood professionals bring deep expertise and genuine warmth to every interaction, guiding little learners through play-based exploration in literacy, math, science, STEM, art, music and more. With a dedicated focus on kindergarten readiness, their pre-K program builds the academic foundations and social confidence children need for a smooth, successful transition, so they arrive in kindergarten not just prepared, but truly ready to thrive. What truly sets CES apart is their community.
What students and parents are saying: “We have been so happy with our experience as parents to a CES student, starting in the preschool 2’s. The school is small enough that everyone knows your child – and the support of the community is amazing,” said one parent in a five-star review.
Chesterbrook Academy
Address: Multiple locations across Virginia and Maryland
Noteworthy attributes:
- Flexible curriculum designed to meet each child’s needs
- Programs for a variety of ages, ranging from infants to pre-kindergartners
- Outdoor learning opportunities through nature, sports, games and discovery
- Focus on hands-on play and learning in small groups
About the school: For 40 years, Chesterbrook Academy preschools have been dedicated to providing exceptional early childhood education for children ages 6 weeks through pre-K. They turn everyday moments into meaningful learning experiences, fueling your child’s growth with activities that challenge, inspire and delight. Nurturing teachers take the time to truly know each child, tailoring learning experiences to their interests and learning styles. Through hands-on activities and purposeful play, the curriculum fosters a lifelong love of learning while helping children build the academic, social and emotional skills they need for success. Their strong safety practices bring peace of mind to families, while dedicated educators partner closely with parents every step of the way.
What students and parents are saying: “Our son has been at Chesterbrook for five months — he started when he was around 7 months old. The teachers and admin have been wonderful and work very hard to accommodate any special requests when it comes to his care,” said one parent in a five-star review for the Alexandria, VA, location. “I can tell they really love and care for him. Anytime he’s been away, they still message us to check up on him…We are lucky to have found this place!”
Rosemount Center
Address: 2000 Rosemount Ave., NW, Washington, DC
Noteworthy attributes:
- Curriculum to foster physical, social, emotional and cognitive development through hands-on, play-based learning
- Small, private center with its own parking lot and playground – not accessible to the general public
- Certified and well-regarded food service provider
- Full time health professional onsite
- Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
About the school: Rosemount Center has been preparing children and families for their future since 1972. They provide year-round early childhood education and family support services in a bilingual (English/Spanish) and multicultural setting at the historic Mount Pleasant campus. Enrollment options include full tuition, local government subsidized and federally funded opportunities for the Infant/Toddler Program (ages 6 weeks to 3 years) and Preschool Program (ages 3 to 5 years). With over 70 community partnerships, home visiting services and dedicated support for children with developmental disabilities, Rosemount Center goes far beyond the classroom — building a foundation of learning, language and community for the families it serves.
What students and parents are saying: “My children went to Rosemount from 2014-2018. The friendships we made there are still enduring — among the kids, parents, teachers and staff. It was truly the place we “started” as a family,” shared a family on the school’s website.
First Steps Academy
Address: 7900 Westpark Drive, Suite A040, McLean, VA
Noteworthy attributes:
- Curriculum is designed to inspire children and challenge critical thinking through purposeful play
- Highlighted monthly values taught and encouraged daily
- Work to support and strengthen the bond between parent and child
- Use activities to nurture child’s heart, both physically and emotionally
About the school: First Steps Academy is a premier early childhood school located in the heart of Tysons, serving children from infants through kindergarten. Thoughtfully designed for busy, modern families, the school provides a nurturing and engaging environment during the most important years of development. First Steps academic program blends the natural desire of children to explore their environment with a structured, phonics based curriculum designed to lay a strong academic foundation. In addition, 2 year olds, preschoolers and kindergartners take part in specialty classes such as music, STEM, Spanish and physical education as well as monthly field trips to enhance their learning experience. With a focus on both academic readiness and social growth, First Steps creates a balanced experience where children build confidence, independence and a love of learning. Its convenient Tysons location and supportive community make it an ideal choice for families seeking high quality early education.
What students and parents are saying: “As a first-time mom, I was nervous leaving my daughter anywhere for too long. Not only has First Steps soothed that anxiety, but they have helped my daughter thrive. I am so appreciative of their warm support and care and for the socialization and enrichment my daughter has experienced. We LOVE First Steps Academy. 11/10 recommend,” shared a parent on the school’s website.
More preschools
This section features some of the best preschools in the DMV and are based on public data, academic performance, community reviews and survey feedback to help families find the right fit. Many of these schools have earned top marks, including A+, A and A– grades, according to Niche.com.
Lowell School
Address: 1640 Kalmia Road NW, Washington, DC
Noteworthy attributes:
- Personalized classroom placement based on age, developmental readiness and diversity, and balance in each classroom
- Eight acres of land featuring outdoor learning environments, playgrounds and an open-air classroom
- Designated classrooms for STEAM, art, physical education, dance and library activities
- Potty training transitioning
- 2025 Washington Parent Pick winner
About the school: Originally founded in 1965, the Lowell School is a progressive, coed school serving students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. According to their website, their pre-primary school “takes a child’s natural curiosity and multiplies it so that our youngest students discover the joy of learning, grow in their confidence and develop strong fundamental skills for kindergarten and for life.”
National Child Research Center
Address: 3209 Highland Place NW, Washington, DC
Noteworthy attributes:
- Variety of programs, including early learning (ages 2-3), preschool (ages 3-4) and prekindergarten (ages 4-5)
- Play-based, emergent curriculum that encourages children to engage in discovery with meaningful topics and ask questions
- Each classroom has a “research board” that records both student and teaching team inquiries
- Before and after-school care programs
- 2025 Washington Parent Pick finalist
About the school: The oldest continuously operating preschool in DC, the National Child Research Center “nurtures the whole child—socially, emotionally and intellectually—toward a lifelong love of learning. Informed by current research and continuing education, NCRC’s exceptional faculty guide each student’s unique development through a play-based, child-centered curriculum in a diverse, family-focused community, with a commitment to the inclusion of children who benefit from additional support and adaptations,” according to their website.
St. Columba’s Nursery School
Address: 4201 Albemarle St. NW, Washington, DC
Noteworthy attributes:
- Research-informed, play-based curriculum that guides intentional learning environments that support holistic child development
- Disability and learning differences-friendly programs
- Recently renovated expansive playgrounds and resident chickens
- Variety of programs with different time spans that can meet each family’s individualized needs
- 2025 Washington Parent Pick finalist
About the school: According to their website, St. Columba’s Nursery School’s mission is to “celebrate the joy and discovery of early childhood. In our inclusive community, children learn to make and be a friend, grow confident by taking ‘safe risks,’ and explore the world with a spirit of curiosity and love.”
Parkside Community Montessori
Address: 624 W Church Road, Sterling, VA
Noteworthy attributes:
- Variety of classes for each age group, ranging from 16 months up to age 6
- Flexible scheduling and dedication to affordable tuition
- Spanish immersion Montessori environment
- Expansive outdoor play space
- 2025 Washington Parent Pick winner
About the school: A locally owned and operated school, Parkside Community Montessori works to make Montessori education more accessible, with a holistic and community-driven approach. According to their website, the school’s mission is to ensure “every child’s innate curiosity and independence are nurtured through authentic Montessori experiences that honor each learner as a unique individual.”
Bright Horizons
Address: 11400 Commerce Park Drive, Suite R140, Reston, VA
Noteworthy attributes:
- Designed for working families with numerous locations across the state
- Science-informed, “Discovery Driven” learning framework that focuses on child’s individual strengths
- Range of programs for all ages, including infants, toddlers/2s, preschoolers, pre-kindergarteners, kindergarteners and even summer programs
- Family resources like concierge personalized support services, college coaching, elder care, tutoring and more
- 2025 Washington Parent Pick finalist
About the school: Having served families for over 40 years, Bright Horizons values high-quality education and care to ensure your child becomes their most confident and happy self. The school emphasizes its dedication to “making a lasting difference, one child, one student, one teacher, one family and one employee at a time,” according to their website.
Lee Montessori Public Charter School
Address: 3025 4th St. NE, Washington, DC
Noteworthy attributes:
- Free, public charter school
- Participation in the My School DC common lottery
- Programs focus on whole-child development through self-directed, hands-on activities
- Before- and after-school care programs
About the school: Founded in 2014, the Lee Montessori Public Charter School serves a diverse student body, offering an individualized Montessori education. According to their website, their curriculum “redefines high-quality education by pairing Montessori with Anti-Bias/Anti-Racist practices. We create a joyful learning environment where children and families flourish, and can show up authentically as their true selves.”
Everbrook Academy of DuPont, DC
Address: 1307 19th St. NW, Washington, DC
Noteworthy attributes:
- Variety of programs including infants, toddlers, preschool, prekindergarten, kindergarten and full-day summer camp options.
- SproutAbout app, which provides families with live streaming of classrooms
- Personalized learning pathways
- Before- and after-school care programs
About the school: With a focus on individualized early-learning pathways for students, the Everbrook Academy of DuPont’s mission is to “provide a foundation to ensure children are prepared to navigate a changing world and our approach to early education ensures that they thrive and develop the necessary skills to embark on their future,” according to their website.
Bethesda Country Day School
Address: 5615 Beech Ave., Bethesda, MD
Noteworthy attributes:
- Programs for a variety of ages, spanning from age 2 to kindergarten
- Outdoor learning experiences like nature activities, sports and games
- Before- and after-school care options
- Curriculum with a wide range of focus, including social and emotional learning, language and literacy, creative expression, scientific exploration and more
About the school: Founded in 1995, Bethesda Country Day School is a daycare and preschool center that prepares children for elementary education by combining learning and play. According to their website, they emphasize that “preschool is more than just learning isolated lessons. Our Links to Learning curriculum ‘links’ multiple activities together, tailored to each child’s interests.”
Key School
Address: 534 Hillsmere Drive, Annapolis, MD
Noteworthy attributes:
- 4:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Variety of programs designed for children aged 2.5 to kindergarten, such as outdoor recreation, STEM, music, library and more.
- Average class size of 15
- Facilities include laboratories, gymnasiums, outdoor classrooms and a Nature Play and Learning Space
About the school: With a focus on inquiry and play-based introduction to education, the Key School has served families for nearly 70 years. According to their website, the school was founded “upon the conviction that children are innately curious about themselves and the world; they want to learn, they want to discover and they want to create.”
Park School of Baltimore
Address: 2425 Old Court Road, Baltimore, MD
Noteworthy attributes:
- Multi-disciplinary programs like reading comprehension, math, art, science, library and more
- Individualized learning experience based on each student’s strengths and interests
- 100-acre campus featuring gardens, trails, streams and woodlands
- Before- and after-school programs
About the school: With a focus on progressive education and active engagement, the Park School of Baltimore’s mission is to “cultivate children’s innate curiosity by nurturing their interests and engaging them as active participants in their own education. We support young people in becoming confident questioners and responsible citizens of the world,” according to their website.
Westgate Child Center
Address: 1613 Great Falls St., Suite B101, McLean, VA
Noteworthy attributes:
- 6:1 child-to-teacher ratio
- Full-day and half-day programs
- Breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks are provided
- Before- and after-school care options
About the school: Founded in 1973, the Westgate Child Center is a nonprofit organization that emphasizes its philosophy to “focus on each child’s social, emotional, physical and intellectual needs in a stimulating yet warm and caring environment” through play-based curriculum, according to its website.
Little Beginnings Child Development Center
Address: 606 N Irving St., Arlington, VA
Noteworthy attributes:
- Nutritious lunch as well as morning and mid-afternoon snacks are provided five days a week
- “Conscious Discipline” approach designed to empower both teachers and students
- Play-based curriculum
- Variety of classes for students ranging from 3 months to 5 years
About the school: Established in 1986, Little Beginnings Child Development Center is a parent-cooperative childcare center that allows parents more involvement in their children’s education. According to their website, their philosophy “recognizes that parents are the primary educators of their children. To that end, we invite parents to share their interests and talents in the classroom, to participate in field trips and learning opportunities, and to engage in close and regular communication with teachers about their child and their child’s classroom.”
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