Are you a parent moving to the area with littles and need a great list of schools? Here are some of my favorites in Port Orchard & Gig Harbor!

*My advice: get on a waiting list the day you find out you are pregnant or expecting. No one tells you that these schools have long waiting lists and before becoming a mom, I had no idea!

MONTESSORI FARMHOUSE SCHOOL

PORT ORCHARD

Montessori Farmhouse School in Port Orchard is an environmentally-based Montessori school “whose purpose is to foster independence, critical thinking, respect and responsibility to self, to others and to the earth”. With focus on the development of children’s physical, social, emotional and cognitive skills, Montessori Farmhouse school offers a variety of enriching programs and experiences surrounded by the beautiful nature of the Pacific NorthWest. They offer full day primary programs Monday-Friday for Preschool & Kindergarten age children 2.5 to 6 years old

BETHANY LUTHERAN EARLY LEARNING CENTER

PORT ORCHARD

Bethany Lutheran Early Learning Center’s main focus is providing a Christ-based learning environment for children ages 3-5. Age-appropriate lessons preparing children for Kindergarten include circle time, reading, art activities, movement sessions, Bible study time and outdoor playtime. Both half and full day enrollment are available.

THE KNOWLEDGE HOUSE MONTESSORI

PORT ORCHARD

At The Knowledge House, children ages 3-6 learn through Montessori inspired teaching focused on nature, academics, social and emotional skills, and self-awareness, encouraging independence and responsible freedom. Both indoor and outdoor activities are provided, with opportunities for outdoor exploration through nature walks, gardening, and feeding the resident bunny rabbits! Half days available Mon-Thu 9am-12pm.

MULTICULTURAL CHILDREN CENTER

PORT ORCHARD

The Multicultural Children Center in Port Orchard is a dual-language immersive learning experience offering a unique experience to learn the English & Spanish languages and cultures simultaneously. Enrichment includes music & movement, arts & crafts, and S.T.E.A.M and G.L.A.D projects and activities. Available for children ages 3-5 years.

‘IN HIS HANDS’ LEARNING CENTER

GIG HARBOR

‘In His Hands’ Learning Center offers a variety of learning programs and before/after care for infants and children from 4 weeks old to 12 years old. Their goal is to “provide quality Christian care and early childhood education to our community by adhering to the highest standards of safety, cleanliness, teaching and loving care, while honoring your religious preferences.” Offering age appropriate curriculum for each program, children can enjoy a variety of activities best suited for their developmental age and goals.

STEPPING STONES PRESCHOOL

GIG HARBOR

For more than 20 years, Stepping Stones Preschool has been serving the Gig Harbor community with a Christian-based school with strong curriculum and thoughtful teachers. Their focus is on readying children for Kindergarten through teaching a variety of skills to be successful as they can be heading into school. And with two easy to access locations in Gig Harbor, it will be easy to find the most convenient location for you and your little one.

CURIOUS BY NATURE SCHOOL

GIG HARBOR

This school in Gig Harbor “offers a one-of-a-kind, nature-based, early-childhood program that helps children develop key critical thinking skills to support their success in math, science, language and the arts.” Students get to enjoy time learning outside in nature every day, rain or shine! Toddler, Preschool and Pre-K classes are available for children ages 2-6, and camps/classes are available for school-aged kids ages 6-8.

DISCOVERY VILLAGE

GIG HARBOR

Discovery Village Academy is a small, family-owned preschool located in Gig Harbor, available for children ages 2-6. Their goal is to prepare children for Kindergarten through building self confidence and empathy for others, while building all of the essential academic skills that will have them prepared to enter school. The classroom is arranged by learning centers, and one-on-one time with the instructors is available to help with learning skills like math and writing.

GIG HARBOR ACADEMY

GIG HARBOR

As an independent private school in Gig Harbor, Gig Harbor Academy’s focus is on their unique approach to “learning, encouraging discovery and creativity both inside and outside the classroom”. Their preschool program is an emergent learning style, allowing each child to learn at their own doing and recognize the individuality of each child. Part time and full time options are available.

HARBOR MONTESSORI

GIG HARBOR

Harbor Montessori School’s focus is to “embrace diversity and its ability to empower mutual respect, equity, humanity, and peace.” Offering programs for infants through grade 8, their dedication is to nurturing the whole child. Their toddler (16 months-3 years) and early childhood (2.5-6 years) programs focus on letting the child discover their sense of order, concentration skills, coordination and independence (OCCI), while offering guidance where needed to make sure each child’s individual needs are met.

LITTLE FOX HAVEN

GIG HARBOR

Little Fox Haven’s dream was to create just that, a haven for children to feel safe and secure as soon as they stepped through the door to learn, and for their school to be a home away from home. Combining a mix of Montessori style learning, traditional classroom learning, and small elements of nature school philosophy, they have created a truly unique, inclusive, holistic program for ages 12 months to 5.5 years.

SOUTH COLBY COOPERATIVE PRESCHOOL

PORT ORCHARD

South Colby Co-Op is a non-profit school for children ages 18 months to 5 years. The parent plays a big role in their daily learning, assisting in the classroom, participating at school fundraisers & events, preparing snacks for the classroom and helping to keep the classroom clean.

BRIGHT BEGINNINGS PRESCHOOL

PORT ORCHARD

Grace Bible Church has been serving the Port Orchard area through their preschool, Bright Beginnings, for over 35 years. Founded on “providing a nurturing, loving environment for the youngest learners as they are introduced to basic skills.” Children enjoy hands-on learning through play, art, music, science and literature. Programs are available for ages 3-5.

The decision of making the right choice of school for your little one can be a stressful and difficult process. I hope this list helps you gain some insight into just a few of the amazing schools available here in Pierce & Kitsap County for toddlers and pre-school children!