Pre-K in Bethesda

[Anonymous]

I have a December baby who is in daycare currently, but I'm wondering if there are any public Pre-k options in the Bethesda area? And if not public, any recs on affordable private pre-k? We're going to be doing public school K up, but would do a private Pre-K for a year if it's an option.

[Anonymous]

We're sending our DD to Bethesda Country Day in the fall when she turns two. I know a few people who have kids there and really like it. We liked the schedule flexibility there as well for the two year olds.

[Anonymous]

As far as I know, MCPS public pre-K is need-based only, part of the Head Start program. We did a great, NAEYC-accredited pre-K program at Wonders Child Care which has locations in downtown Bethesda and at the Lawton Community Center in Chevy Chase.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:As far as I know, MCPS public pre-K is need-based only, part of the Head Start program. We did a great, NAEYC-accredited pre-K program at Wonders Child Care which has locations in downtown Bethesda and at the Lawton Community Center in Chevy Chase.

correct
for students with needs - such as occupational, speech, etc.

OP - Will you need before and after care hours, too? (I'm assuming you're working?)

[Anonymous]

OP here... I didn't realize that about the Pre-K being need based, thanks. Wonders might be an option. Yes, I would definitely need before and after care. Thank you for the suggestions, please keep them coming if you have any more.

[Anonymous]

Rock Spring Children's Center in Bethesda has a pre-K class designed specifically for kids who just miss the kindergarten cut-off. It is a very small class size with a wonderful, dynamic teacher. My daughter had a great experience in the class and is well prepared for kindergarten. Rock Spring has great community feel, and the hours are good for working parents too.

www.rockspringchildrenscenter.com

[Anonymous]

I would second the Rockspring recommendation. My husband was won over because of the community feel to the school - the teachers all knowing your child, responsive administrators, parents that normally smile and say hello to one another. The kids have fun but also learn what they need to for kindergarten. The room for kids that miss the school cutoff is small and the main teacher for the room I believe was a former kindergarten teacher before coming to work for the center many years ago.

As for free pre-K the only thing I have heard of is Head Start and programs at the elementary school if your child has special needs - such as occupational, speech, etc. like a PP mentioned.

[Anonymous]

Also soon-to-be former Rock Spring Junior Kindergartener mom - Miss Heather is the best, and I feel that my rising K is very well-prepped for K. Better yet - he's LOVED his year at Rock Spring.