How do I choose the right preschool in Ankeny?

When selecting a preschool in Ankeny, consider: Visit the facility in person to observe the environment Ask about teacher qualifications and experience Check licensing status with Iowa's regulatory agency Review the curriculum and daily schedule Read parent reviews for firsthand experiences Compare staff-to-child ratios across facilities

Preschools in Ankeny, Iowa (9 Results)

Q: How much does preschool cost in Ankeny, Iowa?

Preschool costs in Ankeny typically range from $600 to $1,500 per month for full-time programs. Half-day programs are usually less expensive. Some preschools offer financial aid, and Iowa may have state-funded pre-K programs for qualifying families. Contact individual facilities for current tuition rates.

Best Preschools in Ankeny

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

Cadence Academy Preschool

4.64 score

4.8(20)

225 E 1st St, Ankeny, IA · Capacity: 110 children

Cadence Academy Ankeny receives consistently high praise from parents who emphasize the center's well-trained and caring staff, clean facility, and strong communication. Parents highlight the personal relationships built with teachers, developmental learning activities, and the sense of security they feel leaving their children in this environment.

Well-trained and qualified teacherscaring and kind staffclean facilityexcellent communication (Kidzreport app

St Paul Lutheran Preschool

4.55 score

5(6)

1100 Se Sharon Dr, Ankeny, IA · Capacity: 36 children

St. Paul Lutheran Preschool receives perfect 5-star ratings from parents who praise the family-like atmosphere, dedicated teachers, and Christ-centered learning approach. Parents report their children made significant developmental progress, formed lasting friendships, and developed enthusiasm for learning and school.

Nurturing and loving teacherssmall class sizeswell-organized classroomsChrist-centered curriculum

Our Lady'S Little Learners Preschool

4.55 score

5(6)

510 E 1st St, Ankeny, IA · Capacity: 50 children

Our Lady's Little Learners Preschool in Ankeny receives consistently high praise from parents for its nurturing environment, dedicated teachers, and well-rounded curriculum that balances academics, social-emotional development, and faith-based learning. Parents report that children are well-prepared for elementary school and enjoy their daily experiences. The facility is described as welcoming, safe, and supportive of individual learning levels.

Dedicated and caring teachersstrong academic preparationsocial and emotional development supportfaith-based curriculum

Performing Arts Preschool

4.38 score

4.7(6)

515 N Ankeny Blvd, Ankeny, IA · Capacity: -999 children

Ankeny Dance and Performing Arts Academy receives mostly positive reviews praising the passionate staff, variety of dance styles, and ability to make children feel special. However, some parents expressed concerns about rushed recital preparation, sloppy performances, and scheduling conflicts with holidays like Father's Day.

Passionate and outstanding staffvariety of dance stylesmakes children feel specialcompetitive teams available

Small Discoveries Holy Trinity Preschool

4.32 score

4.5(9)

517 Sw Des Moines St, Ankeny, IA · Capacity: 38 children

Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with parents praising the welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The facility is described as a very happy place where people feel at home. Staff and volunteers are noted as kind, considerate, and accepting.

Welcoming and non-judgmental environmentfriendly staff and volunteerssense of communitykind and considerate people

Preschool @ The Ridge

4.29 score

5(2)

825 Nw 36th St, Ankeny, IA · Capacity: 65 children

Ankeny Lil' Tots Daycare & Preschool LLC

4 score

4(20)

732 Se Shurfine Dr, Ankeny, IA · Capacity: 218 children

Parents consistently praise Ankeny Lil' Tots for exceptional care, communication, and staff warmth across multiple age groups. Families report feeling confident leaving their children in a family-oriented environment where kids thrive developmentally and emotionally. Many have enrolled multiple children over several years, indicating high satisfaction and trust.

Caring and welcoming staffexcellent daily communication via appfamily-oriented atmospherechild development and learning

Bright Beginnings Preschool At Afumc

3.37 score

1.8(2)

206 Sw Walnut St, Ankeny, IA · Capacity: 90 children

Preschools in Ankeny, Iowa

Ankeny has 9 preschool programs designed to prepare children ages 3-5 for kindergarten. These programs focus on early literacy, social skills, and structured learning in a nurturing environment.

When choosing a preschool in Ankeny, consider visiting facilities in person, checking their licensing status, and asking about staff-to-child ratios, daily routines, and safety policies.

Frequently asked questions

There are 9 preschools in Ankeny, Iowa. Browse our directory to compare programs, read parent reviews, and find the best option for your child.

Most preschool programs in Ankeny accept children between ages 2.5 and 5. Many children start at age 3 or 4, about one to two years before kindergarten. Look for signs of readiness such as being comfortable away from parents, ability to follow simple instructions, and interest in playing with other children.

While both provide childcare, preschools in Ankeny typically focus more on structured educational activities to prepare children for kindergarten. Preschool programs often run half-day or school-year schedules, while daycare centers offer full-day, year-round care. Many facilities combine both, offering preschool curriculum within a full-day daycare setting.

Preschool costs in Ankeny typically range from $600 to $1,500 per month for full-time programs. Half-day programs are usually less expensive. Some preschools offer financial aid, and Iowa may have state-funded pre-K programs for qualifying families. Contact individual facilities for current tuition rates.

When selecting a preschool in Ankeny, consider:

Visit the facility in person to observe the environment
Ask about teacher qualifications and experience
Check licensing status with Iowa's regulatory agency
Review the curriculum and daily schedule
Read parent reviews for firsthand experiences
Compare staff-to-child ratios across facilities

9 Preschools in Ankeny, Iowa

Best Preschools in Ankeny

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