Transitional Kindergarten in Arlington?

[Anonymous]

Does anyone know of a program, public or private, in Arlington that offers a transitional kindergarten? My son's birthday is September 29th, he's not quite 3.5 now, so kindergarten is still a ways away, and we haven't made a final decision on sending him or holding him, but I figured I should start researching options, given what waitlists tend to look like for every other child related thing. He's currently in a preschool that I'm very happy with, but he'll start their oldest room in September 2010, and by the time September 2011 rolls around, there won't be any place new to go. If he's ready for public K, great, if not, I want a backup plan. Any suggestions re: schools (preferably in the N. Arlington area, we live near Yorktown, work in Ballston) to send a boy too old for 4yo preschool, but maybe not quite ready for kindergarten would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

Dolley Madison Preschool in Mclean has a Pre-k program for kiddos that have completed a 4's program but are not ready for Kinder. It is an afternoon class m-f. My ds goes to DMPS now (we love it!) and he will attend the pre-k there next year.

[Anonymous]

Rosslyn Children's Center does, I think.

Also, though, most APS principals will tell you that it is their job to deal with the kids they get, not the kids' job to meet some particular standard, so as long as your DC is within the range of normal, he should do fine.

[Anonymous]

It might be worth looking into Montessori options for a year.

[Anonymous]

You can try Keshet preschool in Crystal City, about 8 minute drive from Ballston. It's not officially a transitional program, but they do take late birthdays into 4 year old pre-K.

[Anonymous]

Columbia Baptist Church in Falls Church City has a Pre-K class that is designed for children who miss the cut off or need an extra year. They use a kindergarten curriculum and I've heard that the teachers are great.

There is a bit of a waitlist for this class, and probably the others in the area also, so if you want a slot you might want to start putting your name on lists.

[Anonymous]

Kinhaven can be great for this, right in Ballston.

[Anonymous]

Congressional Schools in Seven Corners has a Junior K. The school is more expensive than a typical preschool -- cheaper than many area private schools -- but has excellent teachers and a very warm environment.

[Anonymous]

Early Years preschool on Lorcom Lane also has a class.

[Anonymous]

OP here - thanks all for the renewed interest/replies!