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Preschool

Preschool provides foundational learning for children who are 3- or 4-years-old by September 1. Preschool supports a child's social-emotional growth while also increasing skills in language, literacy, math and physical development for future success. Preschool offers a supportive environment where children can also create important social connections with their peers.
Chalk art that reads Welcome to Preschool with a sun and flower
A young girls wearing a backpack
A preschool classroom
A teacher talking with a student and looking at something together
Two young girls playing with a game mounted on the wall
A teacher helping a student sitting on her lap
A young girl sitting on the floor
Preschool students looking at a something and dancing
A young boy wearing a backpack with parents and kids in the background
Teacher reading to a group of preschool students seated on a multi-color rug
A young girl putting on a backpack with parents and other students in the background
Preschool students looking at a something and dancing
Three's and multi-age preschool (Little Suns & Solar Sparks) offers three, four and five-year-old children a variety of site and programming options, including two and three day classes. Some classes provide an option for parents to register for a parent discussion group as part of the class registration. Childcare will be provided if you wish to register for the parent discussion group and your child does not attend preschool at the same time as the group meets. Childcare will also be provided for other siblings ages birth to five years. 
 

Four's Preschool (Sunny Scholars) is an exciting time for children as they work to develop abilities and independence that will help prepare them for Kindergarten and beyond. The Four's Pre-K program is for four-year-old's one year prior to starting kindergarten. Children must be age four on or before Sept. 1. The program is located at most elementary school sites and offers programming five days per week with morning and afternoon half-day options. Parents are responsible for their child's transportation to and from school.  

Completion of Early Childhood Screening is required for all students in SoWashCo Schools Preschool program starting at age 3. To schedule an appointment call 651-425-6636 or schedule a screening date online. Be sure to mention your child is registering for the SoWashCo Schools Preschool program. 

Your child cannot be placed in a class if they will be 4 years old by 9/1/24 and have not yet been screened.

Preschool tours

We invite you to learn more about our preschool program by attending a tour. A short presentation will be made about our preschool programs and preschool representatives will be available to help answer questions and provide take home information. Pre-registration is required. Please register or call 651-425-7160 for more information. Dates for the next school year will be posted in January 2025.

District Program Center, Cottage Grove 
Liberty Ridge Site II, Woodbury 

register to attend a tour

Contact

Enrollment Questions:

Kim Heiderscheid
Office Coordinator
651-425-7160
kheiders@sowashco.org

Program manager

Joyce Beaird 
Early Learning Family Services Supervisor
651-425-7169
jbeaird@sowashco.org

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Parent Resources

Early Learning Blog

Preschool Catalog

Registration Information

Parent resources

Early learning blog

 

 

Along with the joy of becoming a parent comes a lot of questions about raising a child. It can be hard to find answers and information. Our Early Learning blog can provide the information you seek. Written by one of our own ECFE Licensed Parent Educators, each blog offers insight into child development, parenting strategies, and other important topics that can support parents during their parenting journey. View our extensive blog library of topics as well as our most recent post below:

When you're buying outdoor clothing for your children, get a set for yourself too! As parents, we’re often the first to want to head inside—whether it's due to weather, household chores, or something else. The book 15 Minutes Outside: 365 Ways to Get Out of the House and Connect With Your Kids provides inspiration for how and why to make time in nature a priority.  

Starting is easy. Try simple activities, like watching your breath on a cool evening or having a backyard picnic. Start the habit now in October rather than January, especially in Minnesota!

The "wonder years" of childhood are filled with amazing moments, from first words to endless questions. During this time, your child grows rapidly—emotionally, physically, and mentally—discovering the world around them. It's a chance for you to slow down, share in their excitement, and build a strong bond. These early years offer plenty of opportunities for love, learning, and growth—not just for your child, but for you as well. Cherish the journey!

Recently, a mom shared a touching gift that brought my eyes to water and my thoughts to linger, a card from her graduating daughter that contained a simple yet profound statement, "When I grow up, I want to be like you." In addition to the gratitude and acknowledgement of all her parent’s love and support, it’s this sentiment that resonates deep within every mom and dad—a reflection of deep, profound love for their child, hope in goodness, the countless unseen sacrifices and unwavering connection that define parenthood. Sometimes the phrase, “cut the umbilical cord” is used in jest. The physical umbilical cord is easy to cut but that deep attachment cannot naturally be severed.

The essence of early childhood lies in building and strengthening the parent-child relationship. Research confirms that the foundation of this attachment is formed during infancy, a stage where the dance of love, responsiveness, and trust begins. The attachment relationship is not just a fleeting phase; it is a cornerstone that shapes a child’s future emotional and social well-being. By promptly responding to their needs, we convey a fundamental message—they are seen, heard, and valued. Through shared gazes and gentle touches, we build a foundation for a strong, emotionally intelligent adult.

Preschool catalog

View the preschool catalog or download a printable version.

Register for Preschool 2023-24 Preschool Information 2024-25 Preschool Catalog PDF