Preschool is an appealing option for many families. Many parents decide to send their children to a preschool. Preschools tend to offer plenty of structured activities and opportunities for early learning. Read more
Access school reviews, insights, and comparisons through our comprehensive reports below.
These are the leading schools that Our Kids editors have covered most extensively so far, providing detailed insights and thorough analysis of their programs, student life, and more.
"Established in 1901, Hillfield Strathallan College is one of Canada’s leading co-educational independent schools, offering academic programs from Montessori Toddler and Pre-K to Grade 12, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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"Armbrae offers a close-knit, inclusive community with balanced academics, strong arts and athletics, play-based early learning, and real-world enrichment from Preschool to Grade 12—supported by personalized guidance.
—From the school
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"Prestige School offers individualized programs from pre-school to grade twelve with an average class size of twelve students. Our new induction into the IB program gives our students an added academic advantage.
—From the school
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"Founded in 1962, TFS offers an exceptional English and French education from 20 months to Grade 12. TFS teaches the curricula of France and Ontario within the International Baccalaureate framework.
—From the school
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"Prestige School offers programs from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 in Toronto. Its average class size is 15 to 20 students.
—From the school
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"Known for our internationally recognized curriculum and highly dedicated educators, we lay the foundation for success for every student, in school and beyond.
—From the school
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 Victoria, British Columbia "We identify experiences that enhance learning, empowering individuals while fostering a community of collaborative contributors. This is achieved through interdisciplinary projects that are seamlessly integrated." —From the school
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 Ottawa, Ontario Buena Vista Road/Springfield Road "Elmwood School is Ottawa’s leading school for girls from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. With high academic standards, small classes, and a supportive environment, each girl is known, challenged, and empowered to reach her" —From the school
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 Oakville, Ontario Trafalgar Road/Dundas "TRMS uniquely provides enriched French as a second language (FSL) instruction for all levels from Preschool to Elementary. We give students a head start in their educational journey, instilling a "Love of Learning!"" —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Leslie/York Mills "La Citadelle fosters excellence through IB & AP, bilingualism, and a holistic approach, shaping confident global citizens with critical thinking, leadership, and a passion for learning." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Don Mill Rd/York Mills Rd "Bayview Glen is a co-ed independent school in North York for students age 2 to Grade 12, combining academic excellence with whole child development to inspire purpose and a better world." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Davenport Rd/Spadina Rd "Waldorf education is 'schooling with heart'. Students and parents love our class sizes, strong teacher relationships, incredible curriculum, unique opportunities and arts-infused academics!" —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario York Mills Road/Bayview Avenue "Junior Academy offers programs for students from Toddler to Grade Eight, in midtown Toronto. The average class size is 10 to 14 students and it caters to many types of students with different learning profiles." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Mississauga Road/Eglinton Avenue "Kendellhurst offers students an enriched curriculum blending project-based, traditional and arts-infused curriculum within a seamless technology program. Our school team supports a positive and safe school experience." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Cawthra/Lakeshore "TFS' West Campus in Mississauga offers the curricula of France and Ontario within the IB framework from PK to Grade 7. Our bilingual, coed, non-denominational environment fosters curious learners and engaged citizens." —From the school
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 Oakville, Ontario Winston Churchill/Lakeshore Road East "Clanmore Montessori offers a warm, inclusive community where children learn with purpose. Our caring educators and mixed‑age environments help students grow with confidence, curiosity, and joy." —From the school
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 Brampton, Ontario Sunforest Drive/Bovaird Drive E "Rowntree is Brampton's Top Choice Private School year after year. Focusing on excellence, leadership, and inclusivity, each child develops academic strengths in both traditional and 21st Century skills." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Spadina Ave/College Street "Authentic, CCMA accredited Montessori Schools located in downtown Toronto, offering programs for Toddlers, Casa, Elementary and Adolescent children in beautiful settings with large and expansive natural playgrounds." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Derry/Millcreek "Lynn-Rose School is a premier private school for grades PK-12 that prepares students to be independent thinkers and lifelong learners. We foster global citizenship, preparing students to excel in a rapidly evolving world" —From the school
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 Calgary, Alberta "Calgary French & International School's immersive language learning environment and enriched curriculum inspires a deep curiosity, respect and exploration of the world for children aged 19 months to 18 years." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Dundas St W./Mississauga Rd. "The Erindale Academy is a JK-Grade 12 school located next to the University of Toronto Mississauga. We offer small classes, inquiry-based learning, and strong AI and Leadership programs to prepare students for success." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Dufferin/Eglinton "The Lycée Français de Toronto offers the excellence of the French curriculum in a multicultural setting, developing strong academics, full bilingualism, and globally minded students." —From the school
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 Oakville, Ontario QEW/Ford Drive / Ninth Line "La Villa Montessori is an AMI recognized school that adheres to Dr. Montessori's principles. We provide a nurturing environment that fulfills the child's emotional, social, physical and intellectual needs." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario "Hopscotch Montessori Toronto is an international boutique school that nurtures global citizens aged 0-12. We foster child-driven independence, academic discovery, creative exploration, and a sustainability mindset." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Lakeshore Road/Southdown "Parents can expect higher academic exposure and research-supported learning strategies to develop intellectual, character, and a social-emotional skills for a personal edge. Kindness and respect for others are valued." —From the school
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 Markham, Ontario Woodbine/HWY 7 "Wishing Well Schools offers an accelerated, enriched curriculum in a supportive, family-focused environment, where students thrive, lead, and develop a lifelong love of learning." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario "At Central Montessori School (CMS), young minds are inspired to be creative, innovative, and inquisitive. We cultivate bright, young leaders and strong communicators ready for the 21st century." —From the school
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 Ottawa, Ontario Place Lycée Pl./Ruelle Hinks Lane "Our goal is to nurture curious spirits, which is why we value a multilingual pedagogy that encourages both French immersion and a wide selection of langage courses. French and excellence are our priorities." —From the school
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 London, Ontario "Matthews Hall aims to inspire academic excellence and a lifetime of joyful learning in the students we serve. We offer a trusted and balanced journey of academic, character and leadership development to our students." —From the school
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 Richmond Hill, Ontario Yonge Street/Silverwood Ave. "Century Private School is located in Richmond Hill, and our campus occupies 12 acres of land. Our programs runs from preschool to grade twelve, with small class ratio to ensure best learning for our students." —From the school
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 Etobicoke, Ontario Lakeshore and/Kipling "Our approach to learning surpasses traditional education outcomes by interweaving subjects for holistic understanding, fostering essential skills for navigating life challenges in social, emotional and academic contexts." —From the school
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 Oshawa, Ontario Wilson Road/Adelaide Ave "At G.B.MS, D.E.P.S and Durham Academy Secondary school focus is on each individual student and helping them meet their unique potential and goals. We believe in excellent customer service and families have a voice. Throughout the year we enhance our programs through program enhancement and enrichment." —From the school
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 Edmonton, Alberta Groat Road/107 Avenue "Progressive Academy's programs inspire students from preschool to grade 12 in Edmonton, Alberta. Wonderful faculty, wide range of experiential opportunities and high expectations ignite a desire to learn." —From the school
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 North Vancouver, British Columbia Keith Rd/Lynnmouth Ave "Collaborative and engaging, North Star's programs put students at the center of their learning and quest for knowledge." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Bayview/Eglinton "CGS represents a strong sense of community where we partner with our families and experienced team of educators to promote a balanced academic-and-values based environment; diversity and inclusion are paramount." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Duplex Ave/St Clements Ave "At SCELS we believe giving children an early education will build a solid foundation to prepare them for their next school setting." —From the school
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 Calgary, Alberta "Renfrew is a specialized school for children with disabilities, where education and therapy are integrated to create personalized, inclusive programs that support each child’s academic, social, and emotional growth." —From the school
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 Pickering, Ontario Kingston/Altona "At École Montessori, students become bilingual critical thinkers through a rich French Montessori curriculum that fosters independence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning." —From the school
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 North York, Ontario Sheppard Avenue East/Victoria Park Avenue "Head Start Montessori was founded in 2002, on the premise that children need a warm, loving and authentic Montessori environment for them to grow into well-adjusted and peaceful beings. H.S.M. is a home away from home." —From the school
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 Kelowna, British Columbia Hwy 97/John Hindle Drive "Here, curious, driven students thrive in an environment that balances academic excellence with arts, athletics, and character development. Cutting-edge STEM labs, creative studios, and new Athletics Centre!" —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario University Ave./Dundas street "CMPS is a faith-based, academically rigorous community blending Montessori and traditional methods to inspire a love of learning, strong character, and confident leadership from Preschool to Grade 12." —From the school
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 Belleville, Ontario "Discover an exceptional education. Albert College is an independent boarding and day school for students in Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12 in Belleville, Ontario. AP offered as well as ESL summer school (OSSD credit)." —From the school
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 Oakville, Ontario Dundas Streeet/Ninth Line "Fern Hill School is a private school for Preschool through Grade 8 providing enriched learning that is delivered by passionate teachers. Our school is regarded as one of the pre-eminent elementary schools in Canada." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Erin Mills Pkwy/Millcreek Drive "Western Heights offers an enriched Montessori program that fosters a love of learning. The school actively engages its close-knit parent community to offer an enriched curriculum that adapts to each student's needs." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Glen Erin/Dundas "Kaban Montessori School is a CCMA accredited school in the west area of Mississauga . Our environments foster each child's interests and abilities while supporting them to achieve their full potential." —From the school
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 Richmond Hill, Ontario Bayview/Hwy 407 "Lauremont School is a leading, accredited independent school that offers a unique design of Montessori and International Baccalaureate programmes. Our students thrive in academics while building a foundation for life." —From the school
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 Aurora, Ontario St. John Sideroad/Yonge St. "Aurora Montessori delivers an enriched Montessori program that builds strong academic foundations, critical thinking, and independence, while developing adaptive, future-ready skills in a supportive community." —From the school
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 Markham, Ontario Kennedy Road/Steeles Avenue "Located in Markham, Ontario, Town Centre Private Schools is an IB Continuum World School offering a Montessori Pre-School program, IB Elementary School, High School and optional IB Diploma Programme." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario "Humberside Montessori School is internationally recognized and accredited by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Our AMI certified teachers provide an authentic Montessori experience for our students." —From the school
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 Kirkland, Quebec Rue Edmond/Ch Ste-Marie "Kuper Academy offers programs from pre-school to Pre-University (Grade 12) in Kirkland. Its average class size is 22 students." —From the school
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 Whitby, Ontario "With bright, modern classrooms, passionate accredited teachers, and an inclusive approach to tuition, Kendalwood fosters curiosity, independence, and academic excellence." —From the school
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 Mississauga / Oakville, Ontario Eight Line/South Service Rd. E. "The first five years shape a child’s brain and lifelong learning. CEFA schools nurture physical, social, intellectual, and emotional growth—giving children the right education at the right time for lasting success." —From the school
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 Burlington, Ontario Walkers Line/Fairview Street "Inspiring Independent Minds with Purpose and Integrity! Positive school culture begins with passionate educators and a commitment to excellence. At FGMS children are guided with dignity because they are capable of more." —From the school
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 Ottawa, Ontario Donald St/Frances St "Promote academic excellence that stimulates the acquisition of language skills, the development of scientific and artistic competencies as well as the formation of a critical mind, in a multicultural environment." —From the school
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 Milton-Campbellville, Ontario Highway 401/Guelph Line "At Hitherfield we believe that every child is unique, and has their own strengths and interests. With individualized programming, Hitherfield continues to nurture growth, success and confidence in our students. " —From the school
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 Markham, Ontario Woodbine/16th Avenue "Trinity Montessori School offers programs from toddler to grade 8 in Markham, Ontario. Its average class size is nine students." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Lawrence Ave./Bathurst St. "The Clover School's innovative curriculum combines Montessori essentials with heart-centred learning practices designed to nurture the mind, heart, health, and soul of each child." —From the school
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 Pickering, Ontario whites/kingston road "Montessori Learning Centre is a non-denominational, inclusive school that has been serving families for 40 years. We recognize and honour religious and cultural events as part of our whole-life educational philosophy." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Don Mills Rd/York Mills Rd "Building on internationally acclaimed preschool reading success, SLI has grown into a hub for ground-breaking student achievement in literary, scientific, coding, and entrepreneurial achievement across Pre-K - Grade 6." —From the school
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 North York, Ontario Dufferin St/Finch ave "Bright Start Academy empowers elementary/secondary students with learning challenges. We offer small classes, 1:1 support & credit courses for academic independence and success." —From the school
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 Toronto / Whitchurch-Stouffville, Ontario Ellerslie/Yonge St "TFMS offers bilingual education in English and French from Pre-K to Gr. 8. Spanish is introduced as a second language from Gr. 1–8. Small classes and Christian values support each child’s full development and growth." —From the school
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 Calgary, Alberta Garrison Blvd SW/33 Ave SW "Vision : Cultivating citizens who shape the future, locally and globally. Mission: Fostering a challenging, transformative bilingual education in a multicultural environment, bringing out excellence in every student." —From the school
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 Amaranth, Ontario "The Maples is an established private IB World School in Orangeville, Ontario providing exemplary education for students (Pre-School to Grade 8). French instruction in PS and Kindergarten with an academic focus." —From the school
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 Ottawa, Ontario Vaughan Street/Bertrand Street "Ottawa’s Fern Hill School offers Preschool, Kindergarten and Elementary Grades, including Core & Advanced French. Tuition starts at $3,550." —From the school
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 Burlington / Oakville, Ontario North Service Road/King Road "Fern Hill School provides an engaging & rigorous academic program for children from Preschool to Grade 8. Our traditional and structured approach focuses on developing intellectual curiosity, creativity & confidence." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Queen Street East/Glen Manor Drive "Our goal is to guide children with respect and understanding, nurturing a lifelong love of learning. We strive to create a supportive environment that fosters intellectual, social, and moral growth." —From the school
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 North Vancouver, British Columbia Wellington Dr/Fromme Rd "Cousteau School offers a bilingual French-English education with a dual curriculum: the French Ministry of Education program and the BC curriculum, fostering academic excellence and global citizenship." —From the school
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 Brampton, Ontario "KMSchool offers accredited Montessori education from 18 months to Grade 12, blending academic excellence with ethnic language, culture, and faith to nurture well-rounded, curious, and culturally grounded students." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Hurontario/Queensway "Shepherd Montessori Private Catholic School in Mississauga offers Casa Montessori programs for children a ged 2.5 to 6. Before- and after-school care and summer camps also available." —From the school
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 Ottawa, Ontario Baseline Rd./Woodroffe Ave. "Bishop Hamilton Montessori School, a not-for-profit independent school in Ottawa, provides an authentic Christian Montessori approach for children 3 months to 14 years." —From the school
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 Brantford, Ontario Fairview Drive/North Park Street "Since 1996, strong academics, small classes, & dedicated teachers have created a nurturing environment where every child feels supported. We inspire well-rounded learners who become confident, compassionate students." —From the school
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 Oakville, Ontario Dundas St. E./Trafalgar Crossing "Dearcroft Montessori Trafalgar Crossing is a thoughtfully prepared learning community grounded in Montessori pedagogy, fostering academic excellence, independence, and holistic child development." —From the school
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 Calgary, Alberta "CJA is a modern Jewish day school offering a dual curriculum combining the Alberta curriculum with Jewish learning. Small classes and strong relationships support confident learners prepared for a complex world." —From the school
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 Unionville, Ontario Kennedy Road/16th Avenue "UC offers year-ahead advanced programs from pre-school to Grade 12. We blend high standards for academic success with the social and emotional development of the individual child." —From the school
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 Calgary, Alberta Bowness Rd NW/Bow Crescent NW "Independent Pre-JK–Grade 6 school in Calgary where childhood is cherished, every child is known, and wonder inspires learning." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario York Mills/Leslie "Hawthorn partners with parents to form well-rounded young women rooted in the Catholic faith. Through personalized attention, students excel in academics, leadership, and character, with exceptional university placement." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Hurontario St/Matheson Blvd E "ABC Montessori is one of Mississauga's premier private schools. We offers montessori and traditional school programs from preschool to Grade 5 with an emphasis on developing literacy, numeracy, sciences, and arts." —From the school
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 Brampton, Ontario Torbram/Clark "Tall Pines School is focused on post education success. As an IB World School, we go beyond academics to nurture character development while developing critical thinkers today that thrive in the uncertainty of tomorrow." —From the school
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 Thornhill, Ontario Bathurst St/Rutherford Rd "Toronto Waldorf School offers a curriculum that integrates academics, arts and movement while addressing the intellectual, physical, emotional and social aspects of child development from preschool to gr. 12." —From the school
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 Markham / Stouffville, Ontario Woodbine Ave/Major Mackenzie Dr E "Royal Cachet has authentic Montessori programs for infants to grade 6 in our healthy and safe environments. We focus on the Language & Math areas of the Montessori Curriculum & encourage our students to grow and succeed." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Tomken Rd./Eglinton Ave. E "Northstar Montessori offers an accredited Montessori curriculum from Toddler age to Grade 8. Our goal is to develop strong character and contributing citizens who understand that their involvement makes a difference." —From the school
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 Etobicoke / Mississauga, Ontario Derry/HWY 27 "Housed in state-of-the-art facilities, we offer a 48-year legacy of providing a perfect learning environment with enriched academic, arts, & athletic programs - inspiring every student to be extraordinary." —From the school
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 Milton, Ontario Main St W/Bronte St N "Our Montessori classrooms form vibrant communities where children uncover their learning potential and receive ongoing, personalized support for their academic, social, and emotional development." —From the school
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 Markham, Ontario 14th Ave/Kennedy "Trillium School is a private school that offers programs from pre-school to grade twelve in Markham with Montessori-based kindergarten." —From the school
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 North York, Ontario Bayview/Sheppard "Bannockburn provides a strong academic foundation anchored in the principles of the Montessori philosophy that supports your child’s intellectual, moral, social, and emotional development in a nurturing environment." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Dufferin/401 "Bloomsbury Academy’s unique integrated Montessori/Focus approach enables our students to develop essential skills such as self-direction, collaborative problem-solving, and emotional intelligence." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Yonge/Sheppard "25 Years of Academic Excellence. Wise Owl stands apart with small class sizes, a rigorous curriculum, and a nurturing culture that develops character, leadership, academic excellence, and the whole child." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Mt Pleasant Rd/Eglinton Ave "Authentic AMI Montessori learning with experienced educators, purposeful environments, and strong foundations in literacy, math, and French. Children build independence, focus, and confidence." —From the school
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 Ottawa, Ontario St. Laurent Blvd./Montreal Rd. "Our mission is personalized student academic success in a friendly and caring school community, in which all students are emotionally supported and socially welcome." —From the school
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 Ottawa, Ontario Alta Vista Drive/Industrial Road "OMS Montessori is a non for profit, independent school offering separate French and English programs within a world class Montessori environment." —From the school
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 Coquitlam, British Columbia "An authentic Montessori school, COI offers each child the space and support to grow and thrive academically as well as to develop the social-emotional skills that will help them have a successful and fulfilled life." —From the school
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 Barrie, Ontario "Barrie Montessori offers programs from 18 months to Grade 8, combining hands-on learning, academic excellence, and character development in a nurturing environment that exceeds Ontario standards." —From the school
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 Burlington, Ontario Walkers Line/Fairveiw Street "Ashwood Glen, an IB World School from JK to Gr, 1-8, fosters leadership, global citizenship, & a growth mindset. Our warm, inclusive community & personalized approach empower confident, future-ready students to thrive!" —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Dufferin St/Lawrence Ave W "LDVA provides foundational education and challenges students to develop to their full potential. Officially recognized by the Italian Government, our unique curriculum incorporates Italian language and culture." —From the school
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 Oakville, Ontario Lakeshore Road East/Bel Air Drive "Offering Montessori programs from Toddler to Grade 8, Dearcroft is accredited by CCMA and staffed by dedicated teachers. We have three campuses in Oakville, delivering exceptional Montessori Programs." —From the school
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 Etobicoke, Ontario Bloor St West/Kipling Ave "Beamish Academy combines certified teachers with AI-supported learning through CENTURY Tech, helping students K-6 of all levels achieve mastery while building confidence, independence, and future-ready skills." —From the school
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 Rigaud, Quebec Rue Saint-Pierre/Rue Bourget "Collège Bourget is a day and boarding school located between Montreal and Ottawa. French and English high school programs are offered. Bourget aims to foster personal autonomy, academic development, and perseverance." —From the school
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 St. Catharines, Ontario Edinburgh Dr/Scott Street "We provide students with opportunities to explore real-world concepts and issues, broadening their sense of responsibility, develop their critical thinking skills, and empower them to take action in a global community." —From the school
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 Vancouver, British Columbia Arbutus St/W14th Ave "Asland Learning Academy nurtures the whole child through hands-on learning, custom curriculum, and a joyful environment that fosters curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning." —From the school
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 Kanata, Ontario • Kanata, Province Eagleson Road/Stonehaven Drive "For 50 years, Kanata Montessori has offered excellent learning environments for students to grow emotionally, socially and academically into a positive global citizen." —From the school
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 Burlington, Ontario Appleby Line/Upper Middle Road "Discover Halton Waldorf School—where confidence, independence, and curiosity thrive. Nestled on five lush forested acres, our unique campus has nurtured young minds through Waldorf education since 1984." —From the school
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 Markham, Ontario Woodbine Ave/Hooper Rd "Early Learning Centre to Grade 12. Discipline. Character. Respect. Complete your child's academic and spiritual foundation. Discover why PCA students excel!" —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Bathurst St./Eglinton Ave. West "Alive Montessori is a warm, safe and loving community where caring teachers support each child through small class sizes and individualized programs. We nurture independence, confidence, curiosity and a love of learning." —From the school
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 Markham, Ontario McCowan Road/Highway 7 "Wesley Christian Academy offers programs from Toddler to Grade 8 in Markham. As we are a Christian school, we share our beliefs with all our students but we warmly welcome families from ALL faiths and backgrounds!" —From the school
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 Kitchener, Ontario "InnovOak is built on surpassing Ontario standards, emphasizing skill-based academic excellence. Our LifeReady program ensures real-world readiness, preparing students for tomorrow using a sensible and innovative approach" —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Dixie Road/South Service Road "The close-knit community at Star delivers on Learn to Love to Learn™ with passionate, talented educators beginning at Kindergarten. Our Five Pillars of Child Development guide learning experiences at all grade levels." —From the school
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 Summerland, British Columbia "UNISUS blends an IB education with personalized learning, Scholar-Athlete Academie, Enrichment Programs & weekend boarding adventures within a supportive, close-knit community; inspiring growth beyond the classroom." —From the school
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Academic preschools and daycares are the most structured of the different types of preschool programs. They focus on school readiness skills. And they aim to prepare kids for elementary school.
Academic preschools resemble traditional schools in many ways. The learning environment is mostly teacher-led. Teachers provide lectures or lessons to the class and lead kids through the curriculum. While kids may have some playtime, the experience is quite structured, especially compared to play-based preschools (sometimes called "play schools").
In an academic preschool, the teacher develops lessons around concepts, such as letters, numbers, shapes, colours, and more. Typically they also provide some formal instruction in math, reading, and writing, among other subjects.
An example of an academic preschool is Montessori. While Montessori preschools don’t have a set curriculum that applies to each child, they focus far more on task-oriented work than imaginative-oriented play.
To learn the differences between academic-based and play-based preschools, read our comparison guide. You can also read articles comparing different preschool approaches: Montessori to Waldorf, Montessori to Reggio Emilia, Waldorf to Reggio Emilia, Montessori to academic, and Montessori to play-based preschools. If you want to compare specific schools one-to-one, visit our compare hub. You can also read our guide to preschool questions.
Preschool questions (read our in-depth answers) |
“We have an academic-based, hands-on approach to learning. I have found children coming from a play-based preschool are not on the same level as the academic-based preschools. Some children have a hard time adjusting and catching up. Having said that, we have roughly two hours a day of free play. Children need time to socialize with friends, be creative, explore, and imagine.” Marcel Pereira, director of Century Private School, a Montessori school in Richmond Hill, Ontario
“We combine academic and play-based learning. This way children can learn and explore the environment through play, as well as receive direct instruction in various subjects. This ensures they are gaining the skills they need at their level of readiness, as well as preparing them to move to the next level in their academic career.” Vanessa Sjerven, teacher at Elmwood School (the early years program), in Ottawa, Ontario
“Academic programs such as Montessori place a great deal of emphasis on order and organization. The children themselves are responsible for helping to ensure that the classroom remains tidy and ready to use. Each day at an academic school focuses on reality-based experiences in order to learn reality-based concepts, rather than encouraging children to spend their days engaged in imaginative play.” Nadia Bayrami, director of York Montessori School, a Montessori school, in Richmond Hill, Ontario
What does “individualized education” actually look like?
Building a strategic academic pathway from the early years
At Hudson College, learning to write is a developmental journey that shapes how students think, communicate, understand, and interact with the world around them.
A program designed for young boys
How Mindful Career helps students build a roadmap for the future
Small class sizes, inquiry-driven learning, and a focus on well-being have created an environment that nurtures confident and curious learners
The youngest learners: 18 months to 3 years
(June 25, 2019)
The Earlier Education Begins, the Better
Research shows the period when a child is five months to five years of age is a very critical time for early learning (June 12, 2019)
Preschools in Canada
The benefits of attending preschool go much deeper than simply better school performance (May 30, 2019)
What is a play-based preschool?
The main features and benefits of play-based preschools (May 30, 2019)
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