Find Your Child’s Perfect Start to School with this List of Kalamazoo Area Preschools
Hello, Preschool!
The arrival of preschool can bring mixed emotions for both kids and parents. It’s exciting and new, but also a bit overwhelming and nerve-racking. After all, you are sending your baby off into the world.
Landing on that perfect school for your little one can make the transition into the school years smoother and happier. We are here to help you do just that.
Our guide will give you options and help you narrow down which school fits your child and family’s needs best.
And when they move on to the “big kid” school, try our Schools Guide for the next education level.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Preschool
Choosing a preschool for your child can seem overwhelming.
When exploring your preschool options around Kalamazoo, keep these important considerations in mind:
• curriculum, teaching methods and learning philosophy
• public, private or religious affiliation
• location
• practical issues such as drop-off and pickup, recess, hours, and after-hours options
• parent communication structure
• food – consider allergy management and food preferences
• cost
• staff experience and staff-to-student ratios
• classroom resources and playground equipment
*It is a parent’s responsibility to research a preschool’s accreditation status. Accreditation is not a legal requirement for preschools in Michigan and choosing an accredited preschool is a parent preference.
Featured Kalamazoo Area Preschools
sponsored listings
This information is updated for 2025.
Ages indicate the child’s age (in years and months) at the beginning of the school year.
-Steve A
The Montessori School provides a warm and vibrant educational home designed to foster a love of learning and help all children reach their fullest potential at their own unique pace. We strive to educate the whole child and to inspire children to be caring, socially responsible participants in their community and world.
Our carefully prepared classrooms are staffed with highly qualified, Montessori-certified head teachers and specially trained staff. Multi-age classrooms allow the children to learn from one another and to be valued contributors to the classroom community.
Our carefully prepared classrooms are staffed with highly qualified, Montessori-certified head teachers and specially trained staff. Multi-age classrooms allow the children to learn from one another and to be valued contributors to the classroom community.
AGES: 2 Yrs 9 months - 6 Yrs
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons, Full Time, Before Care, After Care
TUITION: Fee Based, Tuition Assistance
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons, Full Time, Before Care, After Care
TUITION: Fee Based, Tuition Assistance
POTTY TRAINING: Required
HOURS: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
OPEN HOUSE INFO
Tours are available by request.
Tours are available by request.
The Catholic Schools of Greater Kalamazoo offer two great preschool options: St. Augustine Cathedral School, downtown, and St. Monica Catholic School, on the border between Kalamazoo and Portage.
They provide fully licensed, welcoming preschool classrooms located within nurturing, Catholic faith-based elementary schools.
Children benefit from a curriculum that provides activities and skills from each developmental area- cognitive, creative, physical, spiritual, language, and social-emotional learning- making up the "whole child."
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a central component of our curriculum: a hands-on program that focuses on the faith development of each child.
They provide fully licensed, welcoming preschool classrooms located within nurturing, Catholic faith-based elementary schools.
Children benefit from a curriculum that provides activities and skills from each developmental area- cognitive, creative, physical, spiritual, language, and social-emotional learning- making up the "whole child."
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a central component of our curriculum: a hands-on program that focuses on the faith development of each child.
AGES: 3 Yrs - 4 Yrs
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons, Full Time, After Care
TUITION: Fee Based
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons, Full Time, After Care
TUITION: Fee Based
POTTY TRAINING: Required
HOURS: 7:15 AM - 5:30 PM
At Milestones, we believe in placing children first.
By using proven education techniques in a play-based program, our quality staff engages and helps to further each child’s cognitive, language, social, emotional, physical, and creative development.
All of our convenient, locally owned and operated West-Michigan locations offer year-round programs for children from six weeks to twelve years. Milestones' place great emphasis on the natural environment and learning in the outdoors.
Through these programs, each child at Milestones is given ample opportunities to explore their environment and expand their social and problem-solving skills.
By using proven education techniques in a play-based program, our quality staff engages and helps to further each child’s cognitive, language, social, emotional, physical, and creative development.
All of our convenient, locally owned and operated West-Michigan locations offer year-round programs for children from six weeks to twelve years. Milestones' place great emphasis on the natural environment and learning in the outdoors.
Through these programs, each child at Milestones is given ample opportunities to explore their environment and expand their social and problem-solving skills.
AGES: 6 wks - 11 yrs
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons, Full Time, Before Care, After Care
TUITION: Fee Based, Tuition Assistance
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons, Full Time, Before Care, After Care
TUITION: Fee Based, Tuition Assistance
POTTY TRAINING: Not Required
HOURS: 6:00 AM - 6:30 PM
-Nelu Sellers
Kalamazoo Country Day School is the only private, independent non-profit school in southwest Michigan, offering progressive, individualized instruction that emphasizes problem-solving, communication, and high-level thinking.
For 40 years, the KCDS Preschool has provided guided, hands-on activities that foster curiosity, build a lifelong love for learning, and create meaningful, developmentally appropriate bridges to academic and social-emotional growth.
Each day holds opportunities to explore through indoor and outdoor play that integrates math, literacy, social studies, and science. Small class sizes, academic differentiation, and flexible themed units allow even the youngest learners to guide their own education.
Weekly specials include gym, music, and Spanish.
For 40 years, the KCDS Preschool has provided guided, hands-on activities that foster curiosity, build a lifelong love for learning, and create meaningful, developmentally appropriate bridges to academic and social-emotional growth.
Each day holds opportunities to explore through indoor and outdoor play that integrates math, literacy, social studies, and science. Small class sizes, academic differentiation, and flexible themed units allow even the youngest learners to guide their own education.
Weekly specials include gym, music, and Spanish.
AGES: 2 yrs 6 months - 5 yrs
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons, Full Time, Before Care, After Care
TUITION: Fee Based
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons, Full Time, Before Care, After Care
TUITION: Fee Based
POTTY TRAINING: Required
HOURS: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
OPEN HOUSE INFO
Tours are scheduled by appointment
Tours are scheduled by appointment
– Chrissy B.
Friends of Jesus is a Christ-centered preschool that prepares children for success both in and beyond the classroom. We welcome children of all faiths and backgrounds to take part in our hands-on, engaging instruction and experiences that create a foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
With small class sizes and a familial setting, children feel safe to explore and grow under the nurturing care of qualified teachers.
Our program includes:
• Clear Christian values
• Weekly chapel
• Daily time in a large outdoor play space
• Clear, consistent communication
• Family friendly opportunities
• Before & after care
With small class sizes and a familial setting, children feel safe to explore and grow under the nurturing care of qualified teachers.
Our program includes:
• Clear Christian values
• Weekly chapel
• Daily time in a large outdoor play space
• Clear, consistent communication
• Family friendly opportunities
• Before & after care
AGES: 2 yrs 9 months - 5 yrs
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons, Full Time, Before Care, After Care, Lunch Bunch
TUITION: Fee Based
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons, Full Time, Before Care, After Care, Lunch Bunch
TUITION: Fee Based
POTTY TRAINING: Required
HOURS: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Mrs. O’s Preschool provides a nurturing environment and high quality education for young children. With over 60 combined years of early elementary teaching experience, we believe in developmental, age-appropriate learning, where children learn at their own pace. We offer a balanced combination of academics, play, and structure to give children a positive first school experience.
As career kindergarten teachers, it’s been our experience that incoming 5-year-olds are lacking in preparatory academic fundamentals and social cues. Mrs. O's directors will prepare your 3, 4, & 5-year olds with foundational values and skills they’ll use for life.
As career kindergarten teachers, it’s been our experience that incoming 5-year-olds are lacking in preparatory academic fundamentals and social cues. Mrs. O's directors will prepare your 3, 4, & 5-year olds with foundational values and skills they’ll use for life.
AGES: 2 yrs 9 months - 6 yrs 11 months
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons
TUITION: Fee Based
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons
TUITION: Fee Based
POTTY TRAINING: Not Required
HOURS: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
- Savannah M.
Schoolcraft Community Co-op Preschool provides a warm and nurturing environment for children to discover, explore, play, and learn.
We offer developmentally appropriate hands-on learning opportunities where children can learn to their fullest potential.
*Small Class Sizes
*M/W/F All Day Kindergarten Readiness Program 8:00-2:15
*M/W/F Half Day Four Year Old Program 8:00-11:15
*T/TH Half Day Three Year Old Program 9:00-11:30
We offer developmentally appropriate hands-on learning opportunities where children can learn to their fullest potential.
*Small Class Sizes
*M/W/F All Day Kindergarten Readiness Program 8:00-2:15
*M/W/F Half Day Four Year Old Program 8:00-11:15
*T/TH Half Day Three Year Old Program 9:00-11:30
AGES: 2 yrs 6 months - 5 yrs 6 months
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons
TUITION: Fee Based
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons
TUITION: Fee Based
POTTY TRAINING: Not Required
HOURS: MWF 8:00 TTH 9:00 - MWF 11:15/2:15 TTH 11:30
OPEN HOUSE INFO
Wednesday, January 22nd 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday, January 22nd 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Amanda D.
Using The Creative Curriculum, Heart & Hands Preschool fosters growth in early literacy skills, mathematics, science, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and social-emotional skills. We offer:
• Half-day & full-day classes
• Small class sizes
• A school-like atmosphere
• Balance of free choice time and academics
• Loving, encouraging and passionate teachers
Two and three days a week morning classes include a parent Co-op option and faith-based learning.
• T/TH (3s)
• M/W/F (4s)
• M-F (4s)*
*Five day 4’s Class is a KC Ready 4s + GRSP participant, providing FREE tuition to qualifying families.
• Half-day & full-day classes
• Small class sizes
• A school-like atmosphere
• Balance of free choice time and academics
• Loving, encouraging and passionate teachers
Two and three days a week morning classes include a parent Co-op option and faith-based learning.
• T/TH (3s)
• M/W/F (4s)
• M-F (4s)*
*Five day 4’s Class is a KC Ready 4s + GRSP participant, providing FREE tuition to qualifying families.
AGES: 3 yrs - 5 yrs
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons
TUITION: Free, Fee Based, Tuition Assistance
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons
TUITION: Free, Fee Based, Tuition Assistance
POTTY TRAINING: Required
HOURS: 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
OPEN HOUSE INFO
January 15, 2024- 5:00-6:30pm
January 15, 2024- 5:00-6:30pm
We offer high-quality, safe, and developmentally appropriate care for children ages 3 to 5 years old.
KidFit kids get daily exercise at Kingdom Indoor Center during inclement weather or during the winter months.
KidFit kids get one free class and subsequent programming is 50% off.
Full time preschool: 2, 3, 4 or 5 days/week.
Potty Training: 3’s classroom- Not Required, 4’s classroom- Required
KidFit kids get daily exercise at Kingdom Indoor Center during inclement weather or during the winter months.
KidFit kids get one free class and subsequent programming is 50% off.
Full time preschool: 2, 3, 4 or 5 days/week.
Potty Training: 3’s classroom- Not Required, 4’s classroom- Required
AGES: 3 yrs - 5 yrs
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool
SCHEDULES: Full Time
TUITION: Fee Based
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool
SCHEDULES: Full Time
TUITION: Fee Based
POTTY TRAINING: Not Required
OPEN HOUSE INFO
Tours available upon request
Tours available upon request
St. Michael provides a Christian setting for children to grow spiritually, emotionally, socially, intellectually and physically.
Certified teachers lead using a multi-sensory approach and cross-curricular activities to help children develop in a caring environment. Preschoolers will enjoy weekly chapel, music class and time with book buddies!
All members of the community are welcome regardless of faith affiliation.
Certified teachers lead using a multi-sensory approach and cross-curricular activities to help children develop in a caring environment. Preschoolers will enjoy weekly chapel, music class and time with book buddies!
All members of the community are welcome regardless of faith affiliation.
AGES: 3 yrs - 5 yrs
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons, Before Care, After Care
TUITION: Fee Based, Tuition Assistance
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons, Before Care, After Care
TUITION: Fee Based, Tuition Assistance
POTTY TRAINING: Required
Kazoo School’s preschool is child-centered, focused on meeting the needs of the whole child. Curricula revolves around the interests of the children and embraces multiple intelligences.
An outdoor school with Kleinstuck Preserve as our backyard, we explore the woods often, bringing our discoveries and experiences back to the classroom.
An outdoor school with Kleinstuck Preserve as our backyard, we explore the woods often, bringing our discoveries and experiences back to the classroom.
AGES: 3 yrs - 5 yrs
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Full Time, After Care
TUITION: Fee Based, Tuition Assistance
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Full Time, After Care
TUITION: Fee Based, Tuition Assistance
POTTY TRAINING: Required
HOURS: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Our curriculum focuses on whole-child development in an atmosphere of Christian values through individual and group activities, including:
- Pre-literacy & Kindergarten Readiness
- Fine and Gross Motor Development
- Social and Listening Skills
- Self-Esteem Building
- Bible Stories and Songs
- Outdoor play on our natural playground
- Pre-literacy & Kindergarten Readiness
- Fine and Gross Motor Development
- Social and Listening Skills
- Self-Esteem Building
- Bible Stories and Songs
- Outdoor play on our natural playground
AGES: 3 Yrs - 4 Yrs
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool
SCHEDULES: Mornings
TUITION: Fee Based
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool
SCHEDULES: Mornings
TUITION: Fee Based
POTTY TRAINING: Required
HOURS: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
*Fully licensed
*Excellent, experienced, certified teachers
*Fosters awareness that we are all unique children of God
*Loving Christian atmosphere
*Engaging, hands-on learning for kindergarten readiness
*Curriculum centered around child's individual needs
*Cooperative program allows parents to participate in their child's education
*Small class size–14-16 children
*Low cost
*Field trips
*Excellent, experienced, certified teachers
*Fosters awareness that we are all unique children of God
*Loving Christian atmosphere
*Engaging, hands-on learning for kindergarten readiness
*Curriculum centered around child's individual needs
*Cooperative program allows parents to participate in their child's education
*Small class size–14-16 children
*Low cost
*Field trips
AGES: 2.5 years - 6 years
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons
TUITION: Fee Based
OFFERED: 3s preschool, 4s preschool, Young 5's or PreK
SCHEDULES: Mornings, Afternoons
TUITION: Fee Based
POTTY TRAINING: Required
HOURS: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
OPEN HOUSE INFO
February 8, 2025, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
March 8, 2025, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
February 8, 2025, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
March 8, 2025, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
All SWMI Preschools
| Adventures Learning Center | 4295 Bishop Ave Portage, MI 49002 269-323-3600 |
| Bloom Childcare & Preschool | 8081 Vineyard Pkwy Kalamazoo, MI 49009 269-760-6311 |
| Bread & Roses Childcare | 915 Sunnock Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49001 269-383-9956 |
| Bullfrogs & Butterflies Christian Preschool | 5902 S 12th St Portage, MI 49024 269-488-2120 |
| Catholic Schools of Greater Kalamazoo St. Augustine Cathedral School | 600 W Michigan Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49007 269-349-1945 |
| Catholic Schools of Greater Kalamazoo St. Monica Catholic School | 530 W Kilgore Rd Kalamazoo, MI 49008 269-345-2444 |
| Child Development Centers | Multiple SWMI locations 269-731-5775 |
| Christ for Kids Preschool and Childcare St. Michael Lutheran School | 7211 Oakland Dr Portage, MI 49024 269-327-4889 |
| Comstock Community Learning Center | 1046 River St Kalamazoo, MI 49048 269-345-7243 |
| Comstock Early Learning Academy | 6171 East MN Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49048 269-250-8960 |
| Curious Kids | 1010 W Milham Ave Portage, MI 49024 269-323-6780 |
| Discovery Center Kids | 4102 W Michigan Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49006 269-372-0007 |
| Early Learning Center at the YMCA | 1001 W Maple St Kalamazoo, MI 49008 269-345-9622 ext 161 |
| El Concilio: Escuelita Nuevo Horizonte | 930 Lake St # A Kalamazoo, MI 49001 269-385-6279 |
| Friends of Jesus | 2122 Bronson Blvd Kalamazoo, MI 49008 269-382-2360 |
| Gagie School | 615 Fairview Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49008 269-344-6541 |
| Gift of Grace Montessori | 269-365-5775 giftofgracemontessori@gmail.com |
| Gilden Woods Early Care and Preschool | 1518 E Centre Ave Portage, MI 49002 269-359-1115 |
| Grace Childcare Services | 110 E Clay St Schoolcraft, MI 49087 269-718-7655 |
| Great Explorations Preschool | Portage, MI 269-762-7115 |
| The Grove Preschool | 3919 Portage St Kalamazoo, MI 49001 269-365-8808 |
| Haven’s Little Treasures Christian Preschool | 5350 N Sprinkle Rd Kalamazoo, MI 49004 269-344-5871 |
| Heart and Hands Christian Preschool | 217 S Main St Vicksburg, MI 49097 269-649-2343 |
| Jack and Jill Co-Op Preschool | 8047 Church St Richland, MI 49083 269-629-9149 |
| JumpStart Childcare Center of Kalamazoo | 6712 Financial Pkwy Kalamazoo, MI 49009 269-544-3000 |
| Kalamazoo Christian Preschool | 3800 S 12th St Kalamazoo, MI 49009 269-381-2044 |
| Kalamazoo Country Day School | 3221 E Milham Rd Portage, MI 49002 269-329-0116 |
| Kaleidoscope Kids Preschool Portage Chapel Hill Church | 7028 Oakland Dr Portage, MI 49024 269-327-6643 ext 113 |
| Kazoo School | 1401 Cherry St Kalamazoo, MI 49008 269-345-3239 |
| KidFit Daycare | 8146 Merchant Pl Portage, MI 49002 269-775-1311 |
| Learning Village – Fairfax | 202 Fairfax Kalamazoo, MI 49001 269-382-3887 |
| Learning Village – Lake St | 215 Lake St Kalamazoo, MI 49001 269-341-6070 |
| Learn ‘N Grow Early Childhood Education Center | 485 18th St Otsego, MI 49078 269-694-7960 |
| Little Miracles Christian Learning Center Southridge Church | 6726 Texas Dr Kalamazoo, MI 49009 269-353-2700, ext. 222 |
| Looking Glass Preschool & Daycare | 5527 Parkview Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49009 269-372-9766 |
| Loy Norrix Child Care Center | 606 East Kilgore Rd Kalamazoo, MI 49001 269-337-0264 |
| MAA Expanded Learning Center | 151 S Rose St Suite 106 Kalamazoo, MI 49007 269-743-7616 |
| Milestones Child Development Center | 8101 Moorsbridge Rd Portage, MI 49024 269-443-2148 |
| Milwood Commons Preschool & Childcare | 2031 E Cork St Kalamazoo, MI 49001 269-344-9731 |
| The Montessori School | 750 Howard St Kalamazoo, MI 49008 269-349-3248 |
| Mrs. O’s Preschool | 8025 Moorsbridge Rd Portage, MI 49024 269-993-0066 |
| Nature’s Way Preschool | 4442 Oakland Dr Kalamazoo, MI 49008 269-343-7342 |
| Nazarene Wee Care Center | 5625 Oakland Dr Portage, MI 49024 269-327-3100 |
| New Wonders Discovery Center | 7000 Stadium Dr, Suite 203 Kalamazoo, MI 49009 269-326-4926 |
| Northglade Montessori Magnet School | 1914 Cobb Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49007 269-337-0700 |
| Pathfinder Kids | 8740 S Westnedge Ave Portage, MI 49002 269-327-6762 |
| PCCN Co-Op Preschool | 3600 W Milham Rd Portage, MI 49024 269-323-7855 |
| PEEP (Kalamazoo Public Schools) | 3501 Moreland St Kalamazoo, MI 49001 269-337-0095 |
| Pre-K International | 11 Mills St Kalamazoo, MI 49048 269-870-8412 |
| RHCS Preschool | 700 N Fletcher Kalamazoo, MI 49006 269-383-0505 |
| Schoolcraft Community Co-op Preschool | 169 N Cedar St Schoolcraft, MI 49087 |
| Shamrock Montessori Preschool | 7508 Oakland Dr Portage, MI 49024 269-324-4818 |
| Small World Christian Preschool Third Christian Reformed Church | 2400 Winchell Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49008 269-344-4920 |
| Small World Learning Center | 3616 Lake St Kalamazoo, MI 49048 269-341-9800 |
| Sprout Early Care & Preschool- Kalamazoo | 4620 Arboretum Pkwy Kalamazoo, MI 49006 269-459-9301 |
| Sprout Early Care & Preschool- Otsego | 909 Dix St Otsego, MI 49078 269-692-3675 |
| Starting Point Preschool Centerpoint Church | 2345 N 10th St Kalamazoo, MI 49009 269-459-9517 |
| Wayland Union Schools | Baker Elementary Preschool 507 W Sycamore Street Wayland, MI 49348 269-792-9208 Dorr Elementary Preschool 4159 18th Street Dorr, MI 49323 616-681-9637 |
| Westwood Christian Co-Op Preschool Westwood Christian Reformed Church | 620 Northhampton Kalamazoo, MI 49006 269-381-8691 |
| WoodsEdge YMCA Preschool | 1501 E Milham Ave Portage, MI 49002 269-250-9452 |
More to Explore
