The 2022 SWMI Preschools Guide: Kalamazoo, Portage & Surrounding Communities

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.

Learn More >>

Hours
6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

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.

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

Hours
7:30 AM to 6:00 PM

Open House Info
Tours available upon request

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

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

Hours
7:15 AM to 5:30 PM

Open House Info
Tours can be scheduled by appointment

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.

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

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

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

Hours
7:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Open House Info
Tours are scheduled at your convenience.

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.

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

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.

Hours
7:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Open House Info
Tours offered by appointment. Email [email protected] or call (269) 345-9622 extension 161.