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Your Guide to Applying for Preschool: Important Dates and Open Houses

Questions to Ask When Choosing the Right Preschool Your Child

By Irene Zachman, Woodbury/Oakdale/Cottage Grove/Stillwater Macaroni KID Publisher January 6, 2025

The year has just begun, and if you have young children who will be attending preschool this fall, it's crucial to start the application process early.  Many preschools have limited spots and high demand, so securing a place for your child as soon as possible is essential.  Begin researching top-rated preschools in your area, gather necessary documentation, and submit your application to ensure your child's spot in the fall.  

Open Houses will be starting in the next few weeks, allowing you to visit schools, meet staff, and learn more about each program.  It's a great way to get the feeling of what preschool you feel comfortable with.

Here is a list of some preschools in our area with Open House and Registration dates to help you get started.  


South Washington Community Preschool 2025/26 registration begins January 6, 2025

Valley Preschool - Open House January 11, 2025

The Children's Farm Preschool - Open Registration January 13, 2025

Woodbury Lutheran Preschool - Open House January 14, 2025

Preschool Open House - Stillwater Area Public School Preschool January 15, 2025

St. Ambrose Early Childhood Preschool - Registration Open January 16, 2025

Salem Lutheran Woodbury Preschool - Open House  January 16, 2025

Ready, Set, Grow Preschool - Open House January 16, 2025

Woodbury Lutheran Preschool - Try Preschool January 16, 2025

Ready, Set, Grow Preschool - Open House January 17, 2025

Woodbury Lutheran Preschool - Try Preschool January 17, 2025

New Life Academy - Preview Night Registration (Early Ed to 5th)  January 21, 2025

Woodbury Preschool at The Grove Open House January 23, 2025

Woodbury Lutheran Preschool - Try Preschool January 24, 2025

Sunny Hill Preschool - Open House January 28, 2025

Hope Christian Preschool - Open House February 21, 2025

Little Raiders at Tilden Community Center - Registration Opens February 24, 2025


Credit: Robert Kneschke/Canva

Here is a list of important questions to consider when evaluating preschools:

  • What are the Teacher-to-Child Rations?

  • What is the Daily Schedule like?

  • What Safety Measures are in Place?

  • Are Meals and/or Snacks included?

  • How much time do the children spend outdoors?

  • Are there any additional fees besides tuition?

  • What is the potty training policy? Do they accept children if they're not potty trained? Do they offer assistance during potty time?

  • Is there nap time? Can you bring your own stuffy and/or blanket?

  • If it's through a church, you may want to find out how much religion is included.

  • Is there a before and/or after-school program?

  • How do you handle behavioral problems such as biting or hitting?

  • How do you comfort the child if they are upset or going through separation anxiety?

It's perfectly natural to feel a little overwhelmed when trying to choose the right preschool for your child.  Trust your instincts, take your time, and know that you're making a wonderful choice for their future. You've got this!



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