Welcome to the Northeast Philadelphia Preschool Guide

Finding the right place for your child to learn, grow, and thrive is one of the biggest decisions families make. Whether you're looking for a play-based program, a faith-based option, or an academic environment focused on kindergarten readiness, this guide is designed to help you explore the many early childhood education opportunities available throughout Northeast Philadelphia.

We've gathered local preschool programs, nursery schools, pre-K programs, and early learning centers serving families in Somerton, Bustleton, Fox Chase, Rhawnhurst, Mayfair, Torresdale, and the surrounding communities near the Bucks County border. Whether you're searching for a part-time program for a curious three-year-old or a full-day childcare and preschool option that fits your family's schedule, you'll find a variety of choices to explore.

Every family has unique priorities, and every child learns differently. Our goal is to make your search a little easier by providing a convenient local resource that connects you with schools and programs that help young learners build confidence, friendships, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.

How to Choose the Right Preschool for Your Child

Every child needs something different when it comes to preschool, and every family has a variety of needs and specific things they are looking for. If you’re just getting started with your research, check out the ideas below to help you make the best decision for your family.

1. Decide What Matters Most to Your Family

When choosing a preschool, you first need to decide what matters the most to your family. This will help you create a laser focus when you go in for tours or talk to teachers. Have an open conversation with your stakeholders about what things matter the most to you and which aren’t as big a deal.

Location
Budget
Schedule
Teaching philosophy
Religious affiliation
Full-day vs. half-day

2. Understand the Different Types of Preschool Programs

There are so many different types of preschool programs. Every early learning center will be set up differently and prioritize different things. Are you looking for a specific type of program? What is important for you when it comes to the school’s teaching and learning philosophy? Check out this list below of different types of preschools. Do any of those stand out to you? Or is that something that doesn’t matter as much?

Play-based learning
Montessori
Academic-focused
Faith-based
Cooperative preschools
Nature or outdoor programs

3. Questions to Ask During a Preschool Tour

Before making the decision to commit to a preschool, you’ll want to set up a tour. If the school cannot meet with you first to tour the facility, you might want to search somewhere else. But what do you ask when you are on a tour? It’s important to feel comfortable asking questions at school. Feel free to use the questions below as examples to help you go into the tour with confidence.
What does a typical day look like?
What is your teacher-to-child ratio?
How do you communicate with parents?
What curriculum do you use?
How do you handle discipline?
Is outdoor play included daily?
4. What to Look for in the Classroom
While you are on your tour, make sure to keep your eyes open to what matters to you the most. Based on what your family decided was the most important, create a checklist of things you are looking for. You want to make sure that the preschool environment is one that best fits your child and how they learn.
Here are some other things to look for on a preschool tour:
Cleanliness
Safety
Happy children
Organized learning spaces
Teacher interactions
Hands-on learning
5. Understand Tuition and What's Included
Most early learning centers put a lot of information on their website, but in case you can’t find the tuition prices, make sure you use the list below and ask! Oftentimes, tuition may be all-inclusive, but you never know what might be left off the main price.
Things to Ask About:
Registration fees
Supplies
Snacks/lunch
Before and after care
Payment schedules
Looking for a great preschool in Northeast Philadelphia? Check out this list below of schools, listed by neighborhood.

Last Updated: June 2026

We regularly update this Preschool Guide to help Northeast Philadelphia families discover local preschool options. If you would like your preschool added or updated, don't hesitate to get in touch with us.

Check out this map of early learning schools in Northeast Philadelphia.