Best Headstart Programs in Anchorage, AK

Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in Anchorage

Ranked using a weighted score that combines Google rating with the number of parent reviews — daycares with more reviews rank higher than those with a high rating but few reviews. Last updated: March 2026.

1. 1

   Cook Inlet Native Head Start

   4.7 score

   4.9(18)

   6901 E Tudor Road, Anchorage, AK · Headstart Programs · Capacity: -999 children

   Cook Inlet Native Head Start receives consistently high praise from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents commend the friendly and knowledgeable staff, strong cultural emphasis on Alaska Native traditions, and commitment to parental involvement and child development.

   Excellent teachers and staffclean and safe environmentstrong cultural curriculum focused on Alaska Native culturespromotes love of learning
2. 2

   Anchor Lutheran School

   4.64 score

   4.8(20)

   8100 Arctic Blvd., Anchorage, AK · Before or After School Daycare · Capacity: -999 children

   Anchor Lutheran School receives consistently excellent reviews with parents praising the Christian-based education, dedicated and caring teachers, and personalized teaching approach. Families highlight strong community involvement, small classroom sizes, and well-rounded curriculum including arts and music. Parents report high satisfaction across multiple grade levels with many families staying long-term.

   Caring and dedicated teachersChristian faith-based educationsmall classroom sizeshands-on learning
3. 3

   Anchorage Christian Nursery And Pre-Elem

   4.5 score

   5(5)

   6401 East Northern Lights, Anchorage, AK · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

   Anchorage Christian Nursery and Pre-Elementary receives perfect 5-star ratings from parents who praise its play-based learning approach, involved community, and child-focused environment. Parents report significant developmental gains in their children's social-emotional skills, independence, and academic readiness. The cooperative model with active parental involvement and outdoor play opportunities in a wooded area are consistently highlighted as key strengths.

   Play-based learning styleimproved facilitiescooperative parent involvement modelsocial-emotional development
4. 4

   Anchorage Cooperative Preschool INC

   4.5 score

   5(5)

   3031 Latouche St, Anchorage, AK · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

   Anchorage Cooperative Preschool is highly praised for its play-based learning approach, involved parent community, and focus on child development. Parents report improvements in their children's social-emotional skills, independence, and creativity. The cooperative model with active parent involvement and outdoor wooded play areas are particularly valued.

   Play-based learningchild-focused approachimproved facilitiesinvolved parents and teachers
5. 5

   Tanaina Child Development Center

   4.43 score

   4.7(8)

   1200 Airport Heights Drive, Ste 140, Anchorage, AK · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

   Parents consistently praise Tanaina Child Development Center for its nurturing, high-quality early childhood education and strong staff. Reviewers highlight excellent communication, caring teachers, and comprehensive developmental support across social, emotional, behavioral, and academic areas. Multiple families report long-term enrollment and children thriving in a family-like, supportive environment.

   Dedicated and caring staff with high retention ratesstrong executive leadershipexcellent parent-teacher communicationnurturing environment
6. 6

   Anchorage Christian Preschool

   4.41 score

   4.7(7)

   6505 Debarr Rd, Anchorage, AK · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

   Note: The reviews provided appear to be for Anchorage Cross and Anchor Church rather than the preschool program. Reviews praise the church's spiritual teaching, welcoming community, and pastor's integrity. One reviewer expressed concerns about COVID-19 safety protocols.

   Strong spiritual teachingwelcoming and genuine communityengaging pastor and sermonsinclusive theology discussions
7. 7

   Sunflower Preschool

   4.4 score

   4.5(19)

   2500 Boniface Parkway, Anchorage, AK · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

   Sunflower Preschool in Anchorage receives unanimous 5-star ratings from parents who praise the caring, professional staff and nurturing environment. Parents highlight strong academic preparation, consistent communication, and supportive care that has positively impacted their children's development and readiness for kindergarten.

   Caring and patient staffwarm and safe environmentstrong academic instruction (readingwriting
8. 8

   Anchorage Gymnastics Association

   4.32 score

   4.4(20)

   525 West Potter Drive, #4, Anchorage, AK · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

   Anchorage Gymnastics Association receives consistently high praise from parents for its professional coaching staff, engaging instruction, and positive environment. Parents report significant skill development, excellent communication through progress tracking and parent portals, and a welcoming family atmosphere. The facility is noted as clean and well-maintained with diverse program offerings including rec gymnastics, sports camps, and after-school care.

   Professional and knowledgeable coaching staffindividual attention and feedback to studentsstructured progress tracking and testingengaging and fun classes
9. 9

   Rural Cap Child Development Center

   4.27 score

   4.5(6)

   545 E. 5th Avenue, Anchorage, AK · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

   Rural CAP Child Development Center receives consistently high praise from parents for its caring, skilled staff and nurturing learning environment. Parents report their children form strong bonds with teachers and show enthusiasm for attending. However, some concerns exist regarding staff turnover and frequent closures.

   Caring and dedicated staffstrong teacher-child relationshipsresponsive to parent concernshands-on supervision
10. 10

    The Early Learning Academy

    4.27 score

    4.5(6)

    1130 W Dimond Blvd., Unit E, Anchorage, AK · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

    Parents consistently praise Starbright South as an excellent preschool with caring, communicative leadership and a welcoming atmosphere. The facility is described as clean, well-organized, and staffed with passionate educators who build strong relationships with children and families. Multiple parents recommend the center and report positive transitions to kindergarten.

    Owner Jen's communication and passion for educationfriendly and supportive staffclean and well-organized facilitystrong teacher-child relationships

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