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 needs best.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Preschool
Choosing a preschool for your child can seem like such an overwhelming task. 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.
SEE ALSO: Southwest Michigan Schools Guide »
Directory: Kalamazoo Area Preschools
This information is updated for 2022. Ages indicates the child’s age (in years and months) at the beginning of the school year.
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Preschool in Portage
AppleTree & Gilden Woods Early Care and Preschool
K-Prep encompasses our entire preschool program with special age-appropriate instruction for 3 year olds, 4 year olds, and Young 5’s.
At AppleTree and Gilden Woods, we understand that preschoolers need the freedom to explore, inquire, and engage. That’s why our comprehensive approach is so effective.
We provide a developmentally appropriate environment for hands-on learning that is stimulating and fun, so your child can grow, play, and learn at their own pace. They’ll love engaging in art, music, early math and science activities, and circle time – and you’ll love the confidence and mastery they develop.
At AppleTree and Gilden Woods, we understand that preschoolers need the freedom to explore, inquire, and engage. That’s why our comprehensive approach is so effective.
We provide a developmentally appropriate environment for hands-on learning that is stimulating and fun, so your child can grow, play, and learn at their own pace. They’ll love engaging in art, music, early math and science activities, and circle time – and you’ll love the confidence and mastery they develop.
Learn More >>
Hours
6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Preschool in Kalamazoo
The Montessori School
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.
Learn More >>
From the minute we enrolled our two kids, our experience has been second to none and we couldn't be happier!
-Steve A
-Steve A
Hours
7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Open House Info
Tours available upon request
Tours available upon request
Preschool in Kalamazoo
Catholic Schools of Greater Kalamazoo
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, 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 faith development of each child.
Schedule a visit today!
St. Augustine: (269) 349-1945
St. Monica: (269) 345-2444
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 faith development of each child.
Schedule a visit today!
St. Augustine: (269) 349-1945
St. Monica: (269) 345-2444
Learn More >>
Our children have learned to read, add, and subtract, built strong friendships, developed emotional coping skills, strengthened their relationship with Jesus Christ, and are prepared to start elementary school!
-David and Amber P
-David and Amber P
Hours
7:15 AM to 5:30 PM
7:15 AM to 5:30 PM
Open House Info
Tours can be scheduled by appointment
Tours can be scheduled by appointment
Preschool in Portage
Milestones Early Learning
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.
Milestones' staff understand the developmental importance of play and how to engage my children's natural curiosities. My children love attending, excited for what new adventures and lessons await each day.
Hours
6:00 AM to 6:30 PM
6:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Preschool in Portage
Kalamazoo Country Day School
Using The Creative Curriculum, we foster growth in early literacy, science, fine motor, gross motor, and social-emotional skills.
Certified teachers lead using a multi-sensory approach and cross-curricular activities to help children develop in a caring environment. Preschoolers will enjoy weekly specials in gym and music as well as daily outside recess time.
We offer a balanced combination of academics, play, and structure to give children a positive first school experience and prepare your child for kindergarten success.
Curriculum:
• The Creative Curriculum
• Heggerty Phonemic Awareness
Programs available:
Extended ½ day (8am-12:45pm)
Full day program
Certified teachers lead using a multi-sensory approach and cross-curricular activities to help children develop in a caring environment. Preschoolers will enjoy weekly specials in gym and music as well as daily outside recess time.
We offer a balanced combination of academics, play, and structure to give children a positive first school experience and prepare your child for kindergarten success.
Curriculum:
• The Creative Curriculum
• Heggerty Phonemic Awareness
Programs available:
Extended ½ day (8am-12:45pm)
Full day program
My kids have the support they need but so do I, as a parent, that's something that I'm extremely grateful for.
-Hannah T
-Hannah T
Hours
7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Open House Info
Tours are scheduled at your convenience.
Tours are scheduled at your convenience.
Preschool in Portage
Mrs. O's Preschool
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.
So many wonderful things about Mrs. O's. The teachers are so caring. My son has progressed so much socially and academically. He is going to be ready for kindergarten!
Hours
9:00 AM to 3:30 PM
9:00 AM to 3:30 PM
Preschool in Portage
Early Learning Center at the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo
YMCA Early Learning Center programs strengthen families and boost youth development by offering learning readiness experiences and comprehensive child development programs. Early learning builds a foundation for ongoing and future achievement and success.
Program Highlights
· Licensed by the State of Michigan
· Great Start to Quality participant
· KC Ready 4s partner
· Creative Curriculum
· Swim lessons
· Tennis lessons
· Nature walks
· Physical education class
· Financial assistance available
· YMCA MEMBERSHIP for the entire family to enjoy both Portage and Maple facilities.
Program Highlights
· Licensed by the State of Michigan
· Great Start to Quality participant
· KC Ready 4s partner
· Creative Curriculum
· Swim lessons
· Tennis lessons
· Nature walks
· Physical education class
· Financial assistance available
· YMCA MEMBERSHIP for the entire family to enjoy both Portage and Maple facilities.
Hours
7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Open House Info
Tours offered by appointment. Email [email protected] or call (269) 345-9622 extension 161.
Tours offered by appointment. Email [email protected] or call (269) 345-9622 extension 161.
Preschool in Portage
Kaleidoscope Kids Preschool
Chapel Hill Kaleidoscope Kids Preschool was created to provide high-quality early childhood education, rooted in a progressive understanding of the Christian faith, to children of the greater Kalamazoo/Portage area.
Kaleidoscope Kids will be a preschool that affirms all the inherent worth of marginalized peoples, creating a more just world both for the children and staff and for parent/guardians who might not have felt safe or affirmed in other childcare spaces.
Kaleidoscope Kids will be a preschool that affirms all the inherent worth of marginalized peoples, creating a more just world both for the children and staff and for parent/guardians who might not have felt safe or affirmed in other childcare spaces.
Hours
7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Open House Info
March 8, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Private tours also available upon request.
March 8, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Private tours also available upon request.
Preschool in Kalamazoo
Comstock Early Learning Academy
Comstock Early Learning Academy (CELA) is an innovative early childhood education center operated by Comstock Public Schools.
Students will have a positive learning experience with peers and adults in a fun, safe, and creative environment. We provide child-focused and play-based learning opportunities to cultivate life-long learners who are successful in all areas of living.
Students will have a positive learning experience with peers and adults in a fun, safe, and creative environment. We provide child-focused and play-based learning opportunities to cultivate life-long learners who are successful in all areas of living.
Hours
8:00 AM to 3:30 PM
8:00 AM to 3:30 PM
Preschool in Vicksburg
Heart and Hands Christian Preschool
Using The Creative Curriculum, we foster growth in early literacy skills, mathematics, science, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and social-emotional skills.
• Half-day classes
• Small class sizes
• A school-like atmosphere
• Balance of free choice time and academics
2 + 3-Day Classes include a parent Co-op option and faith-based learning.
• T/TH (3s)
• M/W/F (4s)
5-Day Class is a KC Ready 4s + GRSP participant, providing FREE tuition to qualifying families
• Half-day classes
• Small class sizes
• A school-like atmosphere
• Balance of free choice time and academics
2 + 3-Day Classes include a parent Co-op option and faith-based learning.
• T/TH (3s)
• M/W/F (4s)
5-Day Class is a KC Ready 4s + GRSP participant, providing FREE tuition to qualifying families
Hours
9:00 AM to 12:15 PM
9:00 AM to 12:15 PM
Open House Info
February 1, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
February 1, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Preschool in Kalamazoo
Starting Point Preschool
At Starting Point Preschool, we provide a positive and loving environment where children can grow and learn. Our mission is to inspire a love of learning in kids as we provide a nurturing environment, encouraging kids to explore creativity and develop independence as they grow in their relationship with God.
Hours
7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Open House Info
Private tours are available upon appointment, if you are interested please give us a call at (269) 459-9517 or email us at [email protected]
Private tours are available upon appointment, if you are interested please give us a call at (269) 459-9517 or email us at [email protected]
Preschool in Portage
Christ for Kids Preschool at St. Michael Lutheran
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.
Preschool in Kalamazoo & Calhoun Counties
FBR Child Development Centers
The mission of the Child Development Center is to cooperate with parents to nurture the development of enthusiasm, confidence and early life skills that are necessary for each child’s success in school and later life.
Learn More >>
Hours
6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Preschool in Kalamazoo
Small World Christian Preschool
We help each child realize he/she is a special, unique child of God
• Promote social, emotional, physical, intellectual and spiritual development with Christian values
• Nurture self-esteem and loving concern for others
Activities: free and directed play, music, art, devotions, field trips, creative movement, storytime, languages, show & tell, social readiness, motor and listening skills
• Promote social, emotional, physical, intellectual and spiritual development with Christian values
• Nurture self-esteem and loving concern for others
Activities: free and directed play, music, art, devotions, field trips, creative movement, storytime, languages, show & tell, social readiness, motor and listening skills
Open House Info
January 25, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
February 22, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
January 25, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
February 22, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Preschool in Kalamazoo
Westwood Christian Co-op Preschool
*Fully licensed
*Established in 1981
*Excellent, experienced, certified teachers
*Fosters child's awareness that s/he is a unique child of God
*Cooperative program allows parents to participate in child's education
*Loving Christian atmosphere
*Exciting "hands on" activities
*Kindergarten readiness curriculum
*Field trips
*Small class size
*Low cost
*Established in 1981
*Excellent, experienced, certified teachers
*Fosters child's awareness that s/he is a unique child of God
*Cooperative program allows parents to participate in child's education
*Loving Christian atmosphere
*Exciting "hands on" activities
*Kindergarten readiness curriculum
*Field trips
*Small class size
*Low cost
Hours
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Open House Info
Not scheduled yet; please see our website for tour times.
Not scheduled yet; please see our website for tour times.
Preschool in Kalamazoo
Haven's Little Treasures Christian Preschool
Nurturing students to learn and grow in God’s truths academically, socially and spiritually.
3-year-old class: Tues/Thurs 9:00-11:30 AM.
4-year-old class: MWF 8:30-11:30 AM or MWF 12:00-3:00 PM.
Learning activities include creativity, imagination, music, Bible, physical development, free play, socialization and kindergarten readiness.
Scholarships are available.
3-year-old class: Tues/Thurs 9:00-11:30 AM.
4-year-old class: MWF 8:30-11:30 AM or MWF 12:00-3:00 PM.
Learning activities include creativity, imagination, music, Bible, physical development, free play, socialization and kindergarten readiness.
Scholarships are available.
Hours
8:30 AM to 3:00 PM
8:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Preschool in Portage
KidFit Daycare
We offer high-quality, safe, and developmentally appropriate care for children ages 2.5 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.
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.
Open House Info
Tours available upon request
Tours available upon request
Preschool in Kalamazoo
Kazoo School
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.
Hours
8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
More Preschools
Adventures Learning Center | 4295 Bishop Ave Portage, MI 49002 269-323-3600 |
![]() AppleTree Learning Center | 909 Dix St Otsego, MI 49078 269-692-3675 |
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 | 6 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 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 | 2900 W Centre Ave Portage, MI 49024 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 |
Gagie School | 615 Fairview Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49008 269-344-6541 |
Gift of Grace Montessori | 269-365-5775 [email protected] |
![]() Gilden Woods Early Care and Preschool – Portage | 1518 E Centre Ave Portage, MI 49002 269-359-1115 |
Gilden Woods Early Care and Preschool – Kalamazoo | 4620 Arboretum Pkwy Kalamazoo, MI 49006 269-459-9301 |
Great Explorations Preschool | Portage, MI 269-762-7115 |
![]() 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 |
![]() Kalamazoo Public Schools (PEEP) | 3501 Moreland St Kalamazoo 49001 269-337-0095 |
![]() 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 |
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 |
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 |
Otis Montessori Academy | 810 E Center Ave Portage, MI 49002 269-327-8277 |
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 |
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 | 2400 Winchell Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49008 269-344-4920 |
Small World Learning Center | 3616 Lake St Kalamazoo, MI 49048 269-341-9800 |
![]() Starting Point Preschool Centerpoint Church | 2345 N 10th St Kalamazoo, MI 49009 269-459-9517 |
![]() 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 |