How do I choose the right preschool in Dayton?

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

Best Preschools in Dayton, OH — Compare 9

Q: How much does preschool cost in Dayton, Ohio?

Preschool costs in Dayton 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 Ohio may have state-funded pre-K programs for qualifying families. Contact individual facilities for current tuition rates.

Best Preschools in Dayton

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.

A Great Start Preschool INC

4.8 score

5(20)

7001 Far Hills Ave, Dayton, OH · Capacity: -999 children

A Great Start Preschool receives universally positive feedback from parents who praise the school's educational quality, safe environment, and strong staff leadership under director Christina Miller. Parents consistently report significant developmental progress in their children, who enjoy attending and form lasting friendships. The school is noted for its engaging activities and welcoming atmosphere.

Excellent director leadershipcaring and professional staffstrong academic preparation for kindergartenfun activities and events

Fairmont Presbyterian Church Preschool

4.43 score

4.6(13)

3705 Far Hills Ave, Dayton, OH · Capacity: 53 children

Fairmont Presbyterian Church Preschool receives consistently positive feedback with all 5-star reviews. Parents praise the small class sizes, caring teachers, and welcoming community atmosphere. The facility is noted for creating a family-like environment that extends support beyond preschool families.

Caring and welcoming staffsmall class sizesexcellent teachersstrong sense of community

Zion Lutheran Preschool

4.17 score

5(1)

5550 Munger Road, Dayton, OH · Capacity: -999 children

One parent describes a wonderful experience with organized and structured programming, noting that their daughter learned to write her name and improved her socialization skills. The review highlights specific activities such as weekly show and tell, monthly calendars, snacks, and three field trips, alongside praise for the friendly church staff and community involvement.

organized and structured environmentliteracy and socialization developmentweekly show and tellmonthly calendar

Belmont United Methodist Preschool

4.17 score

5(1)

2701 S Smithville Road, Dayton, OH · Capacity: 59 children

One parent describes the school as a dream for part-time community education, highlighting the teachers as caring, organized, and professional. The experience at Belmont United Methodist Preschool appears highly positive for families seeking a part-time program.

caring teachersorganized teachersprofessional teacherspart-time community school

Preschools in Dayton, Ohio

Dayton 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 Dayton, 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 Dayton, Ohio. Browse our directory to compare programs, read parent reviews, and find the best option for your child.

Most preschool programs in Dayton 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 Dayton 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 Dayton 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 Ohio may have state-funded pre-K programs for qualifying families. Contact individual facilities for current tuition rates.

When selecting a preschool in Dayton, consider:

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

Best Preschools in Dayton, OH