Bethesda preschools

[Anonymous]

(Repost from preschool forum)

So DD will be a bit over 2 next fall (Fall 2009) and I am interested in a 2's class a couple mornings a week. We live in Bethesda and are interested in something either here or in Rockville. Having never done this before - where do I start looking for schools and/or programs? Do I need to start attending open houses, visiting schools, applications THIS fall for next year? Most of my friends with kids are in NY, so I know that's what they are doing up there, but what is the norm in this area? Also, would love recommendations for schools that you are happy with.

Thanks.

[Anonymous]

It's been a couple of years since I looked into this, but the schedule is that applications may be due as soon as Sept. of this year for next year, although I think most of them are due more like Jan.

There aren't a ton of 2s programs. Wesley Nursery School has one.

[Anonymous]

If you are looking at preschools that have an application process then I think you are looking at open houses in the fall, application in January - maybe as late as mid-February, decisions in March or early April and having to put a deposit shortly after being notified of admissions. Somewhere in the timeline there may be an evaluation/interview with the child. Now there are some 2 year old programs that have rolling admissions and are first come, first serve. You probably pay a waitlist fee to be put on the list. If you want to go part-time, the waitlist may be a little longer since they need to have that other half of the schedule to be able to offer a spot. I am not sure where you are in Bethesda - but Apple Montessori has a 2 year old program and White Flint Children House Montessori also has a 2 year old program. There may be some other Montessori programs that start at 2 - but I noticed quite a few had the program from 9-12 for the 2 year olds - which for my situation would not have worked.

[Anonymous]

westmoreland child care center has a two year old program, although I heard they have a two year waiting list, but openings always come up.