The 2023 SWMI Preschools Guide: Kalamazoo, Portage & Surrounding Communities

Preschools Guide

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.

Preschool Class

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 2023.

Ages indicate the child’s age (in years and months) at the beginning of the school year.

Preschool in Portage

Kalamazoo Country Day Preschool

Kalamazoo Country Day School is the only private, independent non-profit school in southwest Michigan. It provides 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 and developmentally appropriate bridges to academic and social-emotional growth. Each day at KCDS 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 of learners to guide their own education.

Certified teachers lead using a multi-sensory approach and cross-curricular activities to help children develop in a caring environment. We offer a balanced combination of academics, play, and structure to give children a positive first school experience and prepare your child for kindergarten.

Preschoolers enjoy weekly specials in gym, music and Spanish.


There is no school quite like KCDS. My daughter looks forward to school every day! She has gained confidence in her skills, while making amazing friends.
-Nelu Sellers


Hours
7:30 AM to 5:30 PM


Open House Info
Tours are scheduled by appointment

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.


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

Preschool in Portage

PCCN Preschool

PCCN Preschool is founded on the philosophy that children, their families and society benefit from high-quality early childhood programs. We believe that there is a critical link between a child’s early experiences and later success in life.

Our approach to learning is that teachers act as guides, resources, problem-posers, and partners in learning.

Open-ended discussions and long-term projects bring together language activities, science, social studies, dramatic play and artistic expression.


PCCN allowed my children to grow socially and emotionally in an amazing play based environment. They grew into confident learners and kind friends within PCCN’s loving, safe and supportive classroom!
- Madeline G.


Hours
8:30 AM to 3:30 PM


Open House Info
January 18, 2023 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

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.


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

Preschool in Kalamazoo

Friends of Jesus

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 and events
• Before & after school care


We are so grateful to Friends of Jesus Preschool for fostering a love in our children for school, learning, their friends, and first and foremost, Jesus!
- Chrissy B.


Hours
7:00 AM to 5:30 PM


Open House Info
1/25/23 from 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
2/28/23 from 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
3/16/23 from 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Preschool in Kalamazoo

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 childcare@kzooymca.org or call (269) 345-9622 extension 161.

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.


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

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

Preschool in Kalamazoo

The Grove Preschool

The Grove Preschool provides a play-based, discovery-oriented approach to learning.

We foster hands-on, experimental learning designed to encourage creativity and self-expression. We believe in using intentional practices to provide children with meaningful experiences where their love of learning will grow.

Our curriculum incorporates developmentally appropriate practices while embracing the whole child. We believe each child is unique, reaching social, emotional, physical, and intellectual milestones at their own pace.

Children learn best when surrounded by teachers who encourage them to think for themselves, make decision, work toward their own solutions, and express their own ideas and feelings.


The Grove Preschool has shown incredible love and cultivation of learning for my son. I was blown away by how much passion and dedication they poured into him!
- Kimber C.


Hours
7:30 AM to 5:00 PM


Open House Info
February 28, 2023 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Preschool in Kalamazoo

St. Monica Catholic School & St. Augustine Cathedral School

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.

Schedule a visit today!


Learn More ➡


Our children have learned to read, add, and subtract, build strong friendships, developed emotional coping skills, strengthened their relationship with Jesus Christ, and are prepared to start elementary school!


Hours
7:15 AM to 5:30 PM

Preschool in Schoolcraft

Schoolcraft Community Co-op Preschool

Schoolcraft Community Co-op Preschool provides a warm and nurturing environment for children to discover, explore, and play.

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 8:15-2:30
*M/W/F Half Day Four Year Old Program 8:15-11:30
*T/TH Half Day Three Year Old Program 9:00-11:30


This preschool is wonderful! It's a warm, welcoming and friendly place. My child flourished here. We both enjoyed his time spent here. Thank you!
Savannah M.


Open House Info
Wednesday, January 25th 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Preschool in Vicksburg

Heart and Hands Preschool

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.


The teachers here continuously exceed expectations for child safety, Social-Emotional learning, and Kindergarten preparedness. Through co-op, I’ve participated in my children’s education and witnessed the entire classroom thrive!
Amanda D.


Hours
8:30 AM to 3:00 PM


Open House Info
Feb 1, 2023: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

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.


Hours
8:00 AM to 3:30 PM

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/Fri 9:00-11:30 AM.

4-year-old class: M/W/Th 8:30-11:30 AM or M/W/Th 8:30-2:00 PM.

Learning activities include creativity, imagination, music, Bible, physical development, free play, socialization and kindergarten readiness.

Scholarships are available.


Hours
8:30 AM to 2:00 PM

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.


Hours
8:00 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


Open House Info
January 24, 2023 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Preschool in Portage

KidFit Daycare

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.


Open House Info
Tours available upon request

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.

Preschool in Kalamazoo

Westwood Christian Co-op Preschool

*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


Hours
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM


Open House Info
March 4th, 2023 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

More Preschools

Adventures Learning Center4295 Bishop Ave
Portage, MI 49002
269-323-3600
Bloom Childcare & Preschool8081 Vineyard Pkwy
Kalamazoo MI 49009
269-760-6311
Bullfrogs & Butterflies Christian Preschool5902 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 Centers6 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 Academy6171 East MN Ave
Kalamazoo, MI 49048
269-250-8960
Curious Kids1010 W Milham Ave
Portage, MI 49024
269-323-6780
Discovery Center Kids4102 W Michigan Ave
Kalamazoo, MI 49006
269-372-0007
Early Learning Center at the YMCA1001 W Maple St
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
269-345-9622 ext 161
El Concilio: Escuelita Nuevo Horizonte930 Lake St # A
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
269-385-6279
Friends of Jesus2122 Bronson Blvd
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
269-382-2360
Gagie School615 Fairview Ave
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
269-344-6541
Gift of Grace Montessori269-365-5775
giftofgracemontessori@gmail.com
Gilden Woods Early Care and Preschool1518 E Centre Ave
Portage, MI 49002
269-359-1115
Great Explorations PreschoolPortage, MI
269-762-7115
The Grove Preschool3919 Portage St
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
269-365-8808
Haven’s Little Treasures Christian Preschool5350 N Sprinkle Rd
Kalamazoo, MI 49004
269-344-5871
Heart and Hands Christian Preschool217 S Main St
Vicksburg, MI 49097
269-649-2343
Jack and Jill Co-Op Preschool8047 Church St
Richland, MI 49083
269-629-9149
JumpStart Childcare Center of Kalamazoo6712 Financial Pkwy
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
269-544-3000
Kalamazoo Christian Preschool3800 S 12th St
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
269-381-2044
Kalamazoo Country Day School3221 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 School1401 Cherry St
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
269-345-3239
KidFit Daycare8146 Merchant Pl
Portage, MI 49002
269-775-1311
Learning Village – Fairfax202 Fairfax
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
269-382-3887
Learning Village – Lake St215 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 & Daycare5527 Parkview Ave
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
269-372-9766
Loy Norrix Child Care Center606 East Kilgore Rd
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
269-337-0264
MAA Expanded Learning Center151 S Rose St Suite 106
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
269-743-7616
Milestones Child Development Center8101 Moorsbridge Rd
Portage, MI 49024
269-443-2148
Milwood Commons Preschool & Childcare2031 E Cork St
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
269-344-9731
The Montessori School750 Howard St
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
269-349-3248
Mrs. O’s Preschool8025 Moorsbridge Rd
Portage, MI 49024
269-993-0066
Nature’s Way Preschool4442 Oakland Dr
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
269-343-7342
Nazarene Wee Care Center 5625 Oakland Dr
Portage, MI 49024
269-327-3100
New Wonders Discovery Center7000 Stadium Dr, Suite 203
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
269-326-4926
Northglade Montessori Magnet School1914 Cobb Ave
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
269-337-0700
Otis Montessori Academy810 E Center Ave
Portage, MI 49002
269-327-8277
Pathfinder Kids8740 S Westnedge Ave
Portage, MI 49002
269-327-6762
PCCN Co-Op Preschool3600 W Milham Rd
Portage, MI 49024
269-323-7855
RHCS Preschool700 N Fletcher
Kalamazoo, MI 49006
269-383-0505
Schoolcraft Community Co-op Preschool169 N Cedar St
Schoolcraft, MI 49087
Shamrock Montessori Preschool7508 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 Center3616 Lake St
Kalamazoo, MI 49048
269-341-9800
Sprout Early Care & Preschool- Kalamazoo4620 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 SchoolsBaker 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 Preschool1501 E Milham Ave
Portage, MI 49002
269-250-9452

More to Explore



 

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