Virginia Preschools

[Anonymous]

Hi,
I really could use some help here!! Can anyone recommend any preschools, Montessori or regular, in Virginia? I have been searching and I often see large class sizes, junk food on the snack menus, teachers in regular preschools who I've caught sighing and rolling their eyeballs....
Where are the great preschools, similar to the kind DC has, in Virginia?

[Anonymous]

where in Virginia? It's a big place.

[vtcjs]

I'm in the Fairfax Station area, but am close to Burke/Springfield/Lorton areas. I would also love a pre-school recommendation. Thank you!

[Anonymous]

Sorry it's taken so long for me to reply! I'm in Vienna. I am willing to drive within a 25 minute radius anywhere though for a good preschool.

[Anonymous]

I have two recommendations, although I doubt they will be convenient. One is located close to Huntley Meadows Wetlands and is called Frog Pond Early Learning Center. It has an all-day format, which is very good for working parents obviously, but the style of the place is very play-centered and the children spend a large part of the day outside in unstructured activities. It is a bit like a mini-Burgundy Farm. Another suggestion for a slightly more traditional program is the Lee District Preschool program, believe it or not! They have large, sunny rooms with excellent teachers and equipment. During the winter months, the children have access to the gym, dance room, swimming pool (only occassionally), and a large multipurpose room. They take the children outside to play on large playgrounds and field areas whenever the weather permits and they even get to use the Carousel twice a year. The staff are wonderful -- particularly Ms. Amy, who has her children "explore" regions around the world by sampling foods, arts, books, music, and on and on throughout the year.

[Anonymous]

Try Walker Chapel in Arlington. Most kids go on to Public Schools (so its hard to compare to top DC preschools) but its suppossed to be a very good preschool. Also, I have heard Mount Olivet is good but starts young as a day-care (6 months maybe).

[Anonymous]

Clifton Presbyterian Preschool in Old Town Clifton is difficult to get into but worth it. I sent all three children there and never met one parent who wasn't thrilled with the teachers. Go see it and you won't have any other questions.

[Anonymous]

Country Day School in McLean is absolutely wonderful.

[Anonymous]

Pender UMC Preschool in Fairfax is wonderful. It's a co-op.