What makes for the best preschool?
Choosing the right preschool for your child: factors to consider
Find a list of schools
Welcome to Our Kids.
We’re here to help you find the right school, the right way.
For more than 20 years we’ve worked with leading education and child development experts to explore and improve the school-choice process. The result is a robust suite of tools—used by over 2.6 million families every year—which enable you to choose your best-fit school among the 350+ profiled on this site.
We’re your virtual school-placement consultant: your personal guide to discovering, evaluating, and choosing the right school for your child.
Take 2 minutes now to open your free account. It will give you access to exclusive insights on how specific schools are a fit (or not) for your student’s learning needs.
Quick summary
|
Preschools prepare your child for the school years. The aim is to give them a strong start in kindergarten, one that provides a great basis for elementary school and beyond.
To further serve the families who turn to us, we've been working with Microsoft to innovate in support of online learning. To that end, we're pleased to announce the launch of the Our Kids Store by Microsoft.
Gain access to exclusive discounts on Surface products—from laptops to accessories that support remote learning—at the Store through your Our Kids account dashboard.
Most preschools are intended for children between the ages of three and five. Many preschools, though, have programs for infants (birth to 18 months) and toddlers (18 months to 3 years).
Most three year olds (and some kids as young as two) are ready for a preschool or nursery program (or a daycare with some focus on early learning). Of course, not all kids are ready at this age, as they mature at different rates. And it may be the case that some kids may not be a good fit for preschool (or certain preschools) at any age.
Most children are ready for preschool education by age three (and some younger). And while not all children are the right fit, many are.
How do you know if your child is ready for preschool? Your child should be at least three (unless an infant or toddler preschool is offered). They should also be meeting developmental milestones and not have any severe special need(s) (unless it’s a preschool supporting the special need(s) in question). It’s also a plus if they seek independence and are comfortable when separated from you and their home (although some separation anxiety is normal).
Here are some other helpful traits for preschool. Keep in mind, many kids won’t have them before preschool, but develop them during it.
Preschool questions (read our in-depth answers) |
Assuming your child is ready for preschool, you’ll want to find the best one. You should look at several preschools and choose one that’s the right fit for you, your family, and your child.
Choosing the best preschool is no small task. First, you should consider general factors. These relate to a school’s overall suitability, for any child. They include the following:
Stacy Paton, ECE program manager of Queen Margaret’s School, in Duncan, BC agrees with the importance of first looking at a preschool’s safety and discipline policies. She also stresses the importance of meeting licensing requirements, and having qualified staff and engaging materials. Here’s her list of a preschool’s must-haves:
Besides general factors, you should also consider factors specific to you. You’ll want to find a preschool that’s the right fit for you, your child, and your family. While preschools have pros and cons, the best preschool will be consistent with your family’s values, philosophies, and beliefs. It will also meet a wide range of your practical needs.
Finding the right preschool depends on a wide range of factors.
You need to decide whether your child is suitable for preschool. If they are, you then need to choose the right program for them. These are big decisions: neither should be taken lightly.
In fact, we suggest breaking these decisions down into four different stages. Determining whether you child is ready for preschool, doing basic research, narrowing your choices down, and making the final decision. You should go through these stages in order. Don’t move to the next one until you’ve completed the preceding one.
Selecting a preschool for your child can be a daunting task. You want to give them a headstart in life and a great foundation for the school years. And preschool can be one of the biggest pieces of the puzzle.
Luckily, there are lots of great resources to help you in your preschool search.
“The best way to determine whether a preschool is a good fit is by visiting on more than one occasion. The program on one day might be different from the program on another day. Additionally, it is important to visit several schools, in order to have a basis of comparison. Even if you are sure of one preschool, visit others to be sure.” Ann Wolff, educational consultant at Wolff Educational Services, in Toronto, Ontario
“It’s best if children are offered a balance of activities and quiet times. A child who has happy and successful learning experiences will likely be motivated to keep learning in those areas. No two children are exactly alike, and so the ‘fit’ will vary from one preschool environment to another, and parents will have to see what best suits their particular child, while keeping in mind that interests and development will take different directions over time.” Joanne Foster, educational specialist, and co-author (with Dona Matthews) of Beyond Intelligence, Secrets for Raising Happily Productive Kids
“Selecting a preschool that is a good fit for your child can be exciting as well as overwhelming. As a parent, you want to be confident that you decide on the right program for your little one, but how do you make the best choice? Always inquire about practical matters first. When visiting preschools, evaluate practical issues specific to your family’s needs. These include the school's hours, proximity to your home or work, available transportation, after-hours options, cost, class size, and staff-to-child ratio. Be sure to ask about the application and admission procedures and the timeline for these. Start considering programs early and get information to make sure you don’t miss any deadlines.
Some important questions to ask:
Will the school provide references?” Lee Venditti, director of J. Addison, a Montessori school in Markham, Ontario
“What should parents look for? We encourage parents to visit the licensed physical location of the program that interests them. Parents should look for qualified instructors who offer the ‘whole child’ experience. It is important that families choose a centre that matches their goals, personal philosophies, their child’s needs/personality, and above all receive confirmation that the staff are committed to the safety and well-being of the children at all times.
When visiting preschools, it is important for parents to watch the physical interaction between educator and child. This is to ensure that the children are respected, nurtured, and age-appropriately challenged. This balance is important for establishing a healthy educational relationship between preschools and families.” Stacy Paton, ECE program manager of Queen Margaret’s School, in Duncan, British Columbia
“Visit the preschool and ask for a tour of the entire facility. Make sure to spend time observing the children interacting with the teachers and the physical space. A warm nurturing teaching staff with experience is vital. High teacher retention is key (low staff turnover), as this is a sign of an effectively managed preschool.
The curriculum should be engaging, child-centred, and should address the needs of the whole child—social, emotional, physical and academic. Ask about the schedule: a good preschool should have a well-developed schedule that fits the developmental needs of the children’s specific ages with appropriate time allotted for nutrition, rest, and outdoor play/exploration.” Kate Meadowcroft, teacher at Elmwood School (the early years program), in Ottawa, Ontario
“A visit to a school will give you a sense of the environment. It’s a good idea to carefully observe the classroom. Do the children look happy? Are they engaged in a wide variety of activities? How are they interacting with each other and the teacher? All of this information will help determine if the school is the right fit for you and your family.” Corina Gill, assistant head of the lower school at Bayview Glen Independent School, in Toronto, Ontario
“When choosing a preschool, it is ultimately up to each parent to decide on the best learning environment that would best suit their child. The school that they choose should fit their individual needs and provide quality teachers and resources. If the child feels safe and happy, and they are showing progression, then it is the right fit.” Debbie Keough, teacher at Prestige School, a gifted school, in Richmond Hill, Ontario
Personalized education from toddler to teenager at Hillfield Strathallan College. [Read more]
The Store is available through your user account dashboard, allowing you access to exclusive discounts on Surface products, from laptops to accessories that support remote learning. [Enter now]
Toronto, Ontario — Bond Academy is a private, co-educational, non-denominational independent school with students from Montessori Casa to Grade 12. View School Profile.
Grades:
PS to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Liberal Arts
Tuition:
$13,000 to $16,000
Living:
Boarding/Day
Enrollment:
550
Avg. Class:
10 to 15
|
Ottawa, Ontario — Elmwood School is Ottawa's pre-eminent school for girls from PreK to Gr. 12. Our high academic standards, small class sizes and safe, supportive environment ensure that each girl is inspired to reach her full potential. View School Profile.
Grades:
PS to 12 (Girls)
Type:
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
Tuition:
$14,800 to $28,300
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
370
Avg. Class:
15 to 17
|
Toronto, Ontario — Prestige School offers programs from junior kindergarten to grade 12 in Toronto. Its average class size is 10 to 18 students. View School Profile.
Grades:
PS to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Traditional
Tuition:
$12,000 to $16,500
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
290
Avg. Class:
10 to 18
|
|
featured
Clanmore is one of the few schools offering authentic Montessori programming from Toddler - Middle School. Our culture is warm and inviting and our philosophy empowers us to support each child as a unique individual.
|
|
featured
TMS 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 of Significance.
|
|
featured
Our mission is personalized student academic success in a friendly and caring school community, in which all students are emotionally supported and socially welcome.
|
|
featured
Lynn-Rose Heights Private School offers challenging academic programming from three years old to grade twelve in Mississauga. Lynn-Rose Heights school is an official International Baccalaureate World School.
|
|
featured
Small class sizes combine with a vast classical education to create a diversity of understanding that leads students to build the
confidence they need to comfortably go out into the world in their own unique way.
|
|
featured
Tall Pines School in Brampton provides enhanced Montessori and traditional classes from Infant to Grade Eight, is the longest accredited CCMA Montessori school in Canada, and is a leader in 21st Century education.
|
|
featured
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.
|
|
featured
Kendellhurst offers students an enriched curriculum with a mix of project based, traditional and arts infused curriculum, with digital displays, Macs and PC's in every room and Edwin personal devices for grades 5 to 8.
|
|
featured
The Maples is an established private IB World School in Orangeville, Ontario providing exemplary education for students (Pre-School to Grade 8). Daily French instruction in PS and Kindergarten with an academic focus.
|
|
featured
This academically re-known French & English bilingual serves students from Pre-Kg to High School. Class size averages 20 students; tuition ranges from $15,000 to $18,00 . Boarding is available.
|
|
featured
Oakville's SMLS continues to be a premier independent school for girls Preschool to Grade 12 since 1891. "Millie" graduates take on the world with confidence and the knowledge that they can do anything.
|
|
featured
Northstar Montessori offers an authentic Montessori curriculum for Toddler age to Grade 8. Our goal is to develop strong character and contributing citizens who understand that their involvement makes a difference.
|
|
featured
An authentic, CCMA accredited Montessori School located in downtown Toronto, offering programs for Toddlers, Casa and Elementary children.
|
|
featured
Royal Cachet has authentic Montessori programs from infants to grade 3 in our healthy & safe environments. We focus on the Language & Math areas of the Montessori Curriculum & encourage our students to grow and succeed.
|
|
featured
TFS - Canada's International School offers Canada's only bilingual IB programs from PK to Grade 12. Average class size is 12 to 22 students. Entrance Scholarship to Grade 7 is available.
|
Hawthorn School is located in Toronto. We offer a co-ed toddler-SK program and an all girls program for grade 1- grade 12. Our unique mentoring program is tailored to help students reach their full potential.
|
Peel Montessori School and Carrington College students are encouraged to be engaged, inquisitive learners who think for themselves, display strengthen of character, and learn to succeed on their own merits.
|
RMS is an award-winning progressive private school. Our structured enriched programme cultivates character, leadership, respect and cultural diversity while developing each child’s 21st century skills and a STEM mindset.
|
Founded in 1990, Yip's Montessori Program cater to children from 1.5 to 6 years old. Yip's four campuses are located in Markham, Unionville and Thornhill.
|
Ashwood Glen offers a Montessori program for children aged 18months - 6 yrs. The Grades 1 - 8 Learning Program applies the IB framework to extend the learning outcomes of the Ontario curriculum.
|
Children's Garden Nursery School is located on Bayview Ave and has been providing the Leaside community and beyond with exceptional programming for young children since 1986. Now offering Grades 1 to 3.
|
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 all types of students with different learning profiles.
|
TFS - Canada's International School (West Campus) offers programs from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 7. Its average class size is 12 to 22 students.
|
OMS Montessori is a non for profit, independent school offering separate French and English programs within a world class Montessori environment.
|
Alder Ridge offers 21st century education. Our innovative learning initiatives are founded in the Montessori Philosophy. We offer a student led, self paced learning environment that holistically supports all areas.
|
Century Private School in Richmond Hill runs from preschool to grade twelve, with small class ratio to ensure best learning for our students.
|
Richland Academy is a progressive, innovative Reggio inspired and International Baccalaureate (IB) World School for children from 2.8-years to Grade 8. Voted #1 Private School in Richmond Hill 4 years in a row.
|
Offering Montessori programs from Toddler to Grade 8, Dearcroft is accredited by CCMA and staffed by dedicated teachers.
|
The Hatch House Montessori School is a very child centered school where each student is respected for his/her uniqueness and is taught accordingly. Ask about our unique, fully bilingual elementary program.
|
MacLachlan is a world-class school offering the benefits of small class sizes, highly dedicated and engaged teachers and an internationally recognized curriculum for students in Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12.
|
The Prestige School offers indiviualized programs from pre-school to grade eight in Richmond Hill with an average class size of ten students. It will soon be expanding its facilities to include full-time high school.
|
St. Clement's Early Learning School
70 St. Clements Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M4R 1H2
St. Clement’s Early Learning School provides a child with an opportunity for growth in all areas of his or her development.
|
Providence Academy is the only Private French Catholic School offering a trilingual program of study in Ontario with classes from nursery to grade eight. Tuition: $8,800-10,300. Extracurricular activities: $600-$650.
|
Bishop Hamilton Montessori School is a Christian Montessori school in Ottawa, Ontario, with classes from Infants to grade eight.
|
ABC Montessori is one of Mississauga's premier private schools. We offers both Montessori and traditional school programs from preschool to Grade 5 with an emphasis on developing literacy, numeracy, sciences, and arts.
|
The Giles School has small class sizes, leadership programs and intensive STEM programming that support both immersion and introductory language programming in each of the six official languages of the United Nations.
|
For more than 40 years Kanata Montessori has been graduating students with self-confidence, critical thinking skills, respect, high academic achievement and an international perspective.
|
Vincent Massey supports students in reaching their individual potential through a balanced education; setting your child up for success in all avenues of life.
|
Since 2002, J. Addison has provided a stimulating education for students. Located at the corner of Woodbine and Valleywood Drive in Markham, ON, Canada, you will find our state-of-the-art 58,000 sq. ft. facility.
|
Mulgrave School offers programmes from Preschool to Grade 12 in West Vancouver to all genders. Its average class size is 20 students with teacher to student ratios of 1:8.
|
For 38 years, Montessori Country School has provided a top rated CCMA accredited curriculum for students 15 months through grade 6 on two sprawling campuses, and an integrated virtual classroom for elementary students.
|
MJDS inspires a lifetime love for learning in a nurturing environment that fosters respect for oneself, the community and the world, guided by the shared values of Judaism and Montessori education.
|
Our identity and teaching philosophy are based on strong values: teaching excellence & innovation, multilingualism & freedom of expression, responsibility & intellectual curiosity, respect for others & togetherness.
|
Braemar House School is a not-for-profit elementary school that proves each day that children thrive in a nurturing environment that offers personalized attention.
|
Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering is a non denominational, inclusive school that offers programs from Pre-school to Grade eight. We acknowledge and celebrate religious and cultural events as part of our cultural program.
|
Accredited by French Ministry of Education and certified by AEFE, this school provides outstanding education and revolves around 3 major themes: Excellence, Educational innovation and Cultural / linguistic openness.
|
CMS' aim is to prepare all children to reach their full potential (academically, artistically, & physically) and to play a responsible role in protecting the global environment and fostering peace and harmony.
|
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.
|
Toronto Waldorf School offers a curriculum that integrates academics,arts & movement, and addresses the intellectual, physical, emotional & social aspects of child development. Preschool to gr. 12.
|
Diverse, warm community. Small classes. Exceptional phonics program to build early literacy. Collaborative, multiple-strategy approach to math. Public speaking, the arts, outdoor ed, mindfulness, community engagement.
|
Richmond Hill Montessori Private School offers programs from pre-school to grade eight. Its average class size is 20 students.
|
Maria Montessori School is one of the longest established AMI accredited Montessori school's in Canada. We offer accredited programs for children 18 months to 12 years and hire only AMI certified teaching staff.
|
We provide infant, toddler, preschool and CASA programs for your child. Our CASA program is based on the curriculum developed by Maria Montessori. We are located in Oakville, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan and Toronto.
|
Trillium School is a private school that offers programs from pre-school to grade twelve in Markham with Montessori-based kindergarten.
|
River Valley is an inclusive school that harnesses the innate curiosity in children to ensure that every student, regardless of age or ability will flourish academically and socially.
|
La Citadelle's Excellence in Bilingual Education and academically advanced curriculum develop successful global citizens through IB & AP programs and a holistic approach where students achieve their highest potential.
|
Ottawa’s Fern Hill School offers Preschool, Kindergarten and Elementary Grades, including extended French. Tuition starts at $2,950.
|
Now offered online, the PK – Grade 6 program is a visible expression of the philosophy embodied in Ledson's books, Raising Brighter Children and Teach Your Child to Read in Just 10 Minutes a Day.
|
Located in Markham, Ontario, Town Centre Private Schools is an International Baccalaureate® World School and offers a Montessori Pre-School program as well as an IB Elementary School and IB High School.
|
Authentic Montessori Preschool. Students completing our 3 year program at The Maria Montessori School test extremely well. We balance academics, exploration and skills guided by your child's natural interests.
|
Rotherglen School - MISSISSAUGA is a montessori school that offers programs from pre-school to grade eight. The average class size is 18 students.
|
Queen Margaret's School is a co-ed independent day/boarding university preparatory school in Duncan, BC.
|
Oakville Christian School offers programs from pre-school to grade eight in Oakville. Its average class size is 22 students.
|
Cornerstone students love to shape the future. They INSPIRE learning, DISCOVER their potential, EMPOWER themselves to be innovative citizens. Our boundless learning strategies open doors for successful learning.
|
Bayview Glen is a traditional co-ed day school in Toronto, Ontario from Preschool (age 2) to Grade 12, a global member of Round Square and offers Advanced Placement programme. Tuition ranges from $18,850 to $28,000.
|
UMS offers year advanced programs from pre-school to grade eight. Our hallmark is a clear focus on high expectations blending academic success with the character development of the individual child.
|
Toronto French Montessori offers French and English programs from pre-school to grade 8 in York Region. Its average class size is 15 students.
|
At Hitherfield we believe that every child is unique, and has his or her own strengths and interests. With individualized programs, Hitherfield nurtures growth, success and confidence in all students.
|
The School offers authentic Montessori education, individualized learning, accommodations to meet each child’s needs, hands-on learning, enriched curriculum, and outdoor exploration.
|
Lycée Louis Pasteur is the only school in Calgary to teach the French Ministry of Education and Alberta Education curricula. Three years old to Grade 12. All linguistic backgrounds welcome. Small class sizes.
|
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. We also offer March Break and Summer Camps for working parents.
|
Aurora Montessori offers an extensive, enriched program for day students to Grade 8 including an Outdoor Ed. Program, an option of an OSSD credit in Grade 9 Academic Math and a bridge to elite private high schools.
|
Meadow Green Academy offers programs from pre-school to grade eight in Mississauga. Its average class size is 12 students.
|
CMS' aim is to prepare all children to reach their full potential (academically, artistically, & physically) and to play a responsible role in protecting the global environment and fostering peace and harmony.
|
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.
|
Kingsley's small classes and personal approach help students reach their unique potential. Each child is seen, heard, and respected. French, music, and phys-ed round out a program which includes plenty of time outdoors.
|
ArtsCalibre Academy empowers students through creativity, mindfulness and leadership. We are offering Preschool through Grade 10 programs in 2020/2021, adding one grade per year through to Grade 12.
|
Located in Brantford, Ontario, Montessori House of Children (MHC) provides excellent programs for grades Nursery to 3 and helps young children reach their learning potential with both independent and self-directed learning. MHC also offers support for students with learning differences.
|
At Banbury, we teach and mentor each child individually. Students are happy and engaged in learning. We believe in small class sizes with multi-aged groups. 98% of our grads continue with post-secondary education.
|
Kuper Academy offers programs from pre-school to grade eleven in Kirkland. Its average class size is 22 students.
|
Our innovative curriculum combines Montessori essentials with heart-centred learning practices designed to nurture the mind, heart, health, and soul of each child.
|
NOW WITH LICENSED DAYCARE! Bring your child for a free trial to let him or her experience the difference. Don't be surprised if he or she doesn't want to go home at the end of the day!
|
Liberty Prep offers programs from Toddler - Gr. 6 in downtown Toronto. Our environment combines a beautifully renovated building with well-trained and passionate teachers. Reach out to discover what we do differently.
|
Kaban Montessori School in west Mississauga/Erin Mills is a CCMA accredited school for children aged 6 months to 12 years. Come for a tour, you'll love it!
|
The Alexander von Humboldt German International School Montreal is a multilingual (German, English and French), private, co-educational school serving students from preschool to grade 12.
|
Little Owl Preschool, Elementary and Middle School develops motivated, confident, and happy problem-solving individuals. We invite your child to become a Little Owl student.
|
Calgary Waldorf School’s rich and challenging curriculum carefully balances academic, artistic and practical activities to stimulate intelligence and encourage creativity.
|
New Haven is the leading private school and non-profit centre supporting individuals with ASD and their families year-round. Our focus centres on growing potential and changing the lives of those with ASD to SOAR.
|
With 2 Campuses located in Vaughan, King Heights Academy provides a unique educational experience for toddlers to grade 12 which includes the IB Program. Our new Thornhill Campus offers a Sports Program from grades 1-12
|
Walden International School, Oakville, offers enriched, child-centred, academic programs from Pre-K through Grade 8. Grade 9 will be introduced in September 2021. Class sizes up to 18 students depending on grade level.
|
Halton Waldorf school offers an education that fosters confidence, independence and intelligence. Our school is located on five forested acres and has been uniquely designed to support the goals of Waldorf education.
|
As western Canada's leader in French immersion education, Calgary French & International School students are active leaders and global citizens, graduating with a foundation for life long success.
|
Magnificent Minds Inc. caters to learners whose needs are not being met in traditional school environments, pursuing academic excellence, and individual greatness.
|
The close-knit community at Star delivers on Learn to Love to Learn™ with project-based, cross-curricular and experiential learning. Our Five Pillars of Child Development guide learning experiences for students in K-8.
|
Our objective is to guide children with respect and understanding, developing in them a love of learning. Our aim is to create a nurturing environment full of intellectual, social and moral learning and development.
|
Early Learning Centre to Grade 12. Discipline. Character. Respect. Complete your child's academic and spiritual foundation. Discover why PCA students excel!
|
Trinity Montessori School offers programs from toddler to grade six in Markham, Ontario. Its average class size is nine students.
|
Bannockburn School leads in Montessori education by offering an exceptional, enriched Montessori curriculum in a nurturing environment carefully prepared to meet the needs of children in the formative years of childhood.
|
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.
|
Founded in 1912, Montverde Academy is an elite college preparatory school for students in grades Pre-K3 through post-graduate studies with a distinct student population from over 80 countries worldwide.
|
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!
|
Our curriculum are designed to build essential skills and concepts that help with the cognitive, social, creative, emotional, and physical development of your child with the aim to be a successful learner for life!
|
