As a parent, investing in education is one of the best things you can do for your child. That’s why choosing a quality preschool is essential. But how soon do you need to apply and register? According to the early childhood education experts at Lucky Lane Nursery School in Saint Louis, MO, there are a few things to keep in mind when preparing for preschool registration. 

As a rule of thumb, you should begin researching preschools the January before your child’s third birthday at the latest. Depending on the area, however, you may need to put your child’s name on a list much earlier. Competitive schools or those in densely populated areas can fill up months or even years ahead of time. In fact, some parents put their child’s name on a list for their preferred preschool as soon as they’re born. 

Most schools begin admitting children at the age of three for a two-year program. But some offer toddler programs as well. Toddler programs are a valuable way to help children learn skills like sharing, potty training, and social and language development.  

Each school year typically begins with a new class of 3-year-olds. Most children return for the second year, so openings for 4-year-olds may be few and far between. While researching, take note of school start dates and policies. Many schools have application deadlines, which may be weeks or months before the first day of class. The majority begin accepting applications for the following fall in January. Applying well ahead of time is particularly crucial if you’re requesting a scholarship or other financial aid. These programs are typically open to a limited number of families each year. 

Enrolling your child in a quality early childhood education program is the first step toward kindergarten readiness. If you’re a St. Louis County resident, consider Lucky Lane Nursery School. With over 65 years of experience, they’ve earned a reputation as one of the community’s best learning centers. Call (314) 434-4462 or visit the website to learn more.