My first was in a 5-morning program starting a couple weeks before she turned 3. My second just started a 3-day program, at 2.5.

Both did/are doing great, but as a SAHM, my preference is the 3-day program (obviously if you need the child care it's different, and still fine for the kid). With the two days off, we have time for one-on-one playdates, which I think is important for developing friendships. We have time for a morning gymnastics class, so I can still participate in structured things like that. We have time to just be together, which, since that's one of the reasons I chose to SAH, is important to me.

But I don't think any of that particularly matters to the kid. If you have other reasons to want 5-day -- you have a younger child at home, you need the child care, you like the school better -- that can easily be more important than any of the 3-day advantages.

You can always take your child out now and then in a 5 week program.

The consistency of five days is really helpful for most kids. They are not constantly wondering if this is a school day or a home day.

I have heard that the hardest transition is for kids who have been in half day for multiple years going into full day K.

I agree that 3 days is plenty at that age, but I've heard that the M-W-F can be confusing to the child, i.e. it would be better if it were Monday-Tues-Wednesday. For that reason I would choose the five day.

Three days a week is plenty of school time for a 3 year old. Even in a three-day, two and a half hour class, children have plenty of time to learn about colors, shapes, numbers, etc.. Talk to the director to find out what the curriculum is. You could spend the other two days enjoying time with your child, taking them places and doing fun things together.

I like the 5 day week. More consistent.

I like three days so we have time for other activities.

I sent my 2.5 year old to a 5-day-a-week program. I was worried because all my friends kids only went 2 or 3 days - but it's been fantastic so far. No transition issues, and he knows what's happening every day.

Couldn't be happier! (In MD though, so no help with schools)

I work and we sent our kids to a 5-day part-day program. It was nice for consistency - they knew that when we went to work, they went to school that day. For SAHMs, I think a 3-day program is sufficient for social interaction, because you're more likely to have additional playdates or activities during the non-school days. But kids are find with either one usually, so find a program you like.

I would choose a five-day, morning only program if that is a available. I read that children adjust to the new preschool environment better with five days versus three days program.

On the other hand, children as young as three may not need to stay at school for the whole day.

Of course, I know this is impossible for many parents due to their working schedule. I pick up DS around 4:00 each day because I work full time.

Most Montessori schools have morning only, early afternoon, late afternoon programs.

Which is better?
Most preschools around my area (Centreville, VA) has only 3 day classes and not many has 5 day classes even for 4 year olds.
With the exception of Montessori and some private schools (Little Flock, BeanTree, Chesterbrook, etc.), all Church operated preschools have 3 day classes.
Parents with experiences, in which program does preschooler better thrive and adjust well?

Also, I do believe kids that age learn most from peers and through social interactions, but i do want to introduce my kid into some academics should the child show interest and eager to learn.
I'd like to have that option available and not limit my child to strictly play-based curriculum.

What's a good preschool with this kind of mixture? Or is this non-existent?

Any recommendation for reputable preschool around fairfax area?