How do I choose the right preschool in West Des Moines?

When selecting a preschool in West Des Moines, 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 West Des Moines, Iowa (8 Results)

Q: How much does preschool cost in West Des Moines, Iowa?

Preschool costs in West Des Moines 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 West Des Moines

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

4.72 score

4.9(20)

1809 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA · Capacity: 118 children

Parents consistently praise Cadence Academy Preschool in West Des Moines for its caring, knowledgeable staff and developmentally appropriate curriculum. Children show measurable learning progress and emotional growth, with staff members like director Erica and Anya frequently highlighted for their dedication and compassion. Parents report feeling confident in the quality of care and educational activities provided.

Caring and loving staffStrong educational curricul

Cadence Academy Preschool

4.64 score

4.8(20)

5859 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines, IA · Capacity: 122 children

Parents consistently praise Cadence Academy for its caring, qualified staff who genuinely love working with children. The center is noted for safe environments, quality curriculum across all age levels, excellent communication through daily apps and photos, and strong preparation for kindergarten transition.

Caring and passionate teacherssafe environmentquality curriculum focusing on creativity and academic skillsfrequent parent communication via app and photos

Ashworth Road Baptist Church Preschool

4.22 score

4.3(13)

5300 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines, IA · Capacity: 48 children

Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, praising the facility's biblical teaching, friendly congregation, community involvement, and welcoming atmosphere. However, one reviewer reported experiencing unwelcoming and passive-aggressive behavior based on race. Note: Most reviews appear to be about the church itself rather than the preschool program specifically.

Sound biblical teachingfriendly congregationcommunity engagement and missions opportunitiesnice facility

Step By Step Childcare And Preschool

4.2 score

4.3(10)

2210 Ep True Pkwy, Ste A, West Des Moines, IA · Capacity: 78 children

Step by Step Childcare has extremely polarized reviews. The majority of parents praise the caring staff, clean environment, and quality learning experiences, with many describing it as family-like. However, two negative reviews raise serious concerns about operational issues, hygiene standards, failed health inspections, and handling of behavioral incidents.

Caring and loving staffclean facilityfriendly environmentsafe environment

Wdm United Methodist Early Learning Preschool

4 score

720 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA · Capacity: 85 children

St Timothy'S Preschool

4 score

1020 24th St, West Des Moines, IA · Capacity: 30 children

Preschools in West Des Moines, Iowa

West Des Moines has 8 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 West Des Moines, 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 8 preschools in West Des Moines, Iowa. Browse our directory to compare programs, read parent reviews, and find the best option for your child.

Most preschool programs in West Des Moines 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 West Des Moines 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 West Des Moines 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 West Des Moines, 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

8 Preschools in West Des Moines, Iowa

Best Preschools in West Des Moines

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