Hi Moms, I have just started looking at preschools for my son for the fall. I'd like to send him in either the south Tempe or Ahwatukee area and was hoping to get some feedback on local preschools. The only one I have visited so far is Dayspring (in Tempe). Also, what should I expect a preschool to be like for a 3 yr old? Merely provide play and socialization or are there specific things I should expect them to teach? Thanks!
I went to Dayspring 27 years ago. I was married there too:-) I know that it is a very popular preschool that has been around for a long time. I have cousins who sent their children there and were happy. I have a friend who sends her kids to St. James Church Preschool in Tempe and apparently in the last year they have had some administrative changes that she isn't terribly pleased with.
My 2 and 5 year olds have attended Grace Garden Christian Preschool (48th Street and Elliot) since my 5 year old was 18 months. My husband and I both work, and the girls have gone there full time. I feel they are in a very loving, educational environment. We experienced many facilities (both centers and in-home settings) before we found Grace Garden, and feel that it is a perfect fit for our family.
I have no idea about any Tempe preschools.
Mine have attended preschool in the Kyrene School District in Ahwatukee and this is our 4th year. We love it! My sons have need Speech and Language therapy and they get this for free in class. Half of the classes need developmental assistance and the other half are "typical peers". For ones that need assistance, it's completely free for preschool and a paid tuition for the typicals. It also is a very good step for going into Kindergarten with the Kyrene schools because their is interaction with other grades at times and also library times. The classroom is also set-up very similarly to Kindergarten with a "smart board", cubbies, education, and snack time.
I have also heard very good things about God's Garden and Ahwatukee Preschool.
From what I've heard the cheapest tuitions are with Kyrene and Ahwatukee Preschool.
My daughter went three days a week to A Step Ahead for preschool - Ms Debbie (I believe she still works there) She is incredible. My daughter is at the top of her class - now in 3rd Grade. I would highly recommend her - They are in Ahwatukee.
