What is preschool?
The difference between preschool, daycare, childcare, nursery school, and kindergarten
Quick summary
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Quick summary
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In Canada, children under five years old aren’t required to go to school. This means most Canadian preschools (like nursery schools and daycares) are private. Some receive funding, though, and most are regulated by the government.
Preschools aim to prepare your child for the school years. They promote children’s physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development. They lay the groundwork for a solid start in kindergarten, and for excelling in elementary school and beyond. Indeed, they have numerous benefits.
Some other basic features of preschool include the following:
Preschool questions (read our in-depth answers) |
Preschool is sometimes called daycare or childcare. It’s also sometimes referred to as nursery school or even kindergarten. And it sometimes has a similar approach to these other options. Yet there are often differences between these alternatives.
The table below summarizes some of the main differences between preschool and daycare, childcare, nursery school, and kindergarten.
Preschool |
Daycare |
Childcare |
Nursery school |
Kindergarten |
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Age range |
3-5 (or younger) |
0-5 |
0-5 |
0-3 |
4-6 |
Mandatory |
No |
No |
No |
No |
In some provinces |
Licensed |
Yes |
Yes |
Sometimes |
Yes |
Yes |
RECE teachers |
Yes |
Usually |
Sometimes |
Usually |
Sometimes |
Open during statutory holidays |
Not usually |
Usually |
Usually |
Not usually |
No |
Open during summer |
Not usually |
Usually |
Usually |
Not usually |
No |
Offers before- and after childcare |
Sometimes |
Usually |
Usually |
Sometimes |
No |
Focus on early learning |
Medium-high |
Medium-low |
Low-medium |
Medium-high |
Medium-high |
Keep in mind, though, differences and similarities will depend on the particular preschool, daycare, and so on. This is because preschools (daycares, nurseries, etc.) vary in their aims, approaches, philosophies, and more.
Yet, as we’ve seen, there are some common differences and similarities between these options. For instance, preschool focuses more on early learning and academics than some of these other options. Below, we discuss in more detail the main differences and similarities between preschool and other early learning options.
Like preschool, daycare can refer to many different things. It can be a preschool, nursery school, childcare centre, or all three.
Most daycares are licensed by a government body, such as the Ontario Ministry of Education. This in accordance with the Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA).
Preschool programs, though, tend to have more teachers with training in Early Childhood Education than daycares, and more teachers who are Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECE). They also focus more on early learning and academics than daycare through a fairly intensive curriculum. And some have less unstructured play time than daycares.
Daycare, meanwhile, normally has plenty of “free-explore” or “free-play” time, some unstructured activities, and plenty of play-based learning. That said, many daycare centres, especially at the higher levels, provide some structured learning, focusing on academic skills and knowledge, such as reading, writing, math, numbers, and letters. To learn about the differences between academic and play-based preschools, read our guide.
Some daycare centres and programs provide longer hours than preschools. And some stay open for some holidays, school breaks, and the summer. Many preschools, though, have similar flexibility: they offer full-time programs, extended childcare, and summer enrollment.
Childcare simply refers to any place where a child is cared for. This can mean a number of different things.
It may, for instance just involve one-on-one homecare provided by a parent, nanny, or someone else. Childcare may also be provided in an out-of-home setting. Here your child may simply be “looked after.”
Childcare can and often does, though, provide much more than basic babysitting. It often includes structured play time, with organized activities which allow kids to explore and learn. Many childcare centres also have some play-based learning. And some provide some sit-down learning. Typically, though, childcare providers focus less on early learning and cognitive development than preschool programs.
As Ellen Galinsky says, in The Preschool Years:
If a large opinion survey were conducted on the difference between schools and childcare, school-based programs would be described as more educationally focused, while childcare programs would be seen as more custodial.
Nursery school can refer to many things. It can be a preschool, daycare, kindergarten, or even all three. Nursery school is normally attended near the beginning of preschool (and so may be part of a preschool). It will thus often be for children from ages one to three.
Nursery schools often involve some combination of play, exploration, and learning. Typically, though, they focus more on play and less on learning than the average preschool. Like preschools and daycares, though, they have a wide range of aims, approaches, and philosophies.
In Canada, formal schooling begins with kindergarten. Most children start at the junior kindergarten (JK) level, which is for those who turn four by December 31st of the school year. However, some start school at the senior kindergarten (SK) level, which is for those who turn five on this date. While JK is not mandatory in any province, some provinces require kids to attend SK (for instance, Ontario).
Preschool, on the other hand, is not normally considered part of the school years, at least by most provincial governments. Nor is it mandatory. While it often focuses somewhat on academics, like kindergarten, children aren’t required to attend it.
Also, sometimes preschool is more play-based and less academic than kindergarten. That said, some alternative preschools, such as Montessori, tend to be less play-based and more task- or academic-oriented (even compared to many kindergarten programs), although in an unconventional sense.
In truth, there are many different approaches to preschool, daycare, childcare, nursery school, and kindergarten. What’s most important is to look at the particular aims, philosophies, teaching approaches, and more, of any preschool (nursery school, etc.), and decide whether it’s a good fit for your child. Luckily, in Canada, there are lots of great preschool options to choose from.
To learn more about the different preschool approaches, read our comparison guides. In separate articles, we compare Montessori to Waldorf, Montessori to Reggio Emilia, Waldorf to Reggio Emilia, academic to play-based, Montessori to play-based, and Montessori to academic preschools. You can also read our guide to preschool questions.
“A preschool environment should provide a pleasurable mix of learning opportunities and play—a place where children’s curiosity is encouraged, and wonder and inquiry are integral aspects of the program. It has a broad range of activities, including interactive, motor, listening, and sensory experiences.” Joanne Foster, educational specialist, and co-author (with Dona Matthews) of Beyond Intelligence, Secrets for Raising Happily Productive Kids
“The essence of preschool is a loving, caring environment where young students learn and grow, not only from engaged adults, but from each other. Students are provided with every opportunity to develop at their optimal level by building on their previous experiences and by introducing them to new ideas and concepts. Children learn one step at a time through an age-appropriate program that is geared to the needs of the individual child.” Corina Gill, assistant head of lower school at Bayview Glen Independent School, in Toronto, Ontario
“Although preschools technically fall in the same category as daycare centres—they’re licensed and regulated by the same bodies—they typically have a more academic focus, and are for children ages two through five.” Lee Venditti, director of J. Addison, a Montessori school in Markham, Ontario
“The basic difference between preschool and daycare is that preschools are curriculum-based. They tend to follow a school schedule, whereas daycare is all about making the children happy, where the children play, have fun, nap, etc.” Marcel Pereira, director of Century Private School, a Montessori school, in Richmond Hill, Ontario
“Preschool is the bridge between daycare or homecare and kindergarten. It’s an opportunity for students to be socialized in a warm, nurturing environment. It’s a place where the basic foundational building blocks of school, such as lining up, waiting your turn, sitting and listening, putting on your coat, and holding a pencil, are learned.” Vanessa Sjerven, teacher at Elmwood School (the early years program), in Ottawa, Ontario
“One of a preschool program’s primary goals is to support the children in acquiring appropriate social skills and conflict resolution strategies when dealing with others. Learning to relate well with others is an important life skill that will support the child’s development and success both personally and professionally in the future.” Jennifer Deathe, head of admission at Waldorf Academy, in Toronto, Ontario
“By law, a licensed preschool must have teachers who are RECE (Registered Early Childhood Educators). The preschool teacher-to-student ratio must be 1-to-8 in accordance with the CCEYA (Child Care and Early Years Act).” Nora Ibrahim, preschool teacher and IB PYP (Primary Years Program) coordinator at Académie de la Capitale, in Ottawa, Ontario
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Access school reviews, insights, and comparisons through our comprehensive reports below.
These are the leading schools that Our Kids editors have covered most extensively so far, providing detailed insights and thorough analysis of their programs, student life, and more.
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"Established in 1901, Hillfield Strathallan College is one of Canada’s leading co-educational independent schools, offering academic programs from Montessori Toddler and Pre-K to Grade 12, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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"Prestige School offers individualized programs from pre-school to grade twelve with an average class size of twelve students. Our new induction into the IB program gives our students an added academic advantage.
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"Prestige School offers programs from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 in Toronto. Its average class size is 15 to 20 students.
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"Since 1962, TFS offers an exceptional English and French education from age 2 to Grade 12, on two campuses. TFS teaches the curricula of France and Ontario within the International Baccalaureate (I.B.) framework. Co-ed.
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Toronto, Ontario Davenport Rd/Spadina Rd "Waldorf education is 'schooling with heart'. Students and parents love our smaller class sizes, strong teacher relationships, incredible curriculum, unique opportunities and arts-infused academics!" —From the school
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Brampton, Ontario Sunforest Drive/Bovaird Drive E "Rowntree is Brampton's Top Choice Private School year after year. We focus on excellence, leadership, and inclusivity while developing each child’s academic strengths, both in traditional and 21st Century skills." —From the school
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Ottawa, Ontario Buena Vista Road/Springfield Road "Elmwood School is Ottawa's pre-eminent school for girls from PreK to Gr. 12. Our high academic standards, small class sizes and safe, supportive environment ensure that each girl is inspired to reach her full potential." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario York Mills Road/Bayview Avenue "Junior Academy offers programs for students from Toddler to Grade Eight, in midtown Toronto. The average class size is 10 to 14 students and it caters to many types of students with different learning profiles." —From the school
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Oakville, Ontario Winston Churchill/Lakeshore Road East "Clanmore is one of the few schools offering authentic Montessori programming from Toddler - Middle School. Our culture is warm and inviting and our philosophy empowers us to support each child as a unique individual." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Spadina Ave/College Street "Authentic, CCMA accredited Montessori Schools located in downtown Toronto, offering programs for Toddlers, Casa, Elementary and Adolescent children in beautiful settings with large and expansive natural playgrounds." —From the school
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Oakville, Ontario Trafalgar Road/Dundas "TRMS uniquely provides enriched French as a second language (FSL) instruction for all levels from Preschool to Elementary. We give students a head start in their educational journey, instilling a "Love of Learning!"" —From the school
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Mississauga, Ontario Mississauga Road/Eglinton Avenue "Kendellhurst offers students an enriched curriculum blending project-based, traditional and arts-infused curriculum within a seamless technology program. Our school team supports a positive and safe school experience." —From the school
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Victoria, British Columbia "We identify experiences that enhance learning, empowering individuals while fostering a community of collaborative contributors. This is achieved through interdisciplinary projects that are seamlessly integrated." —From the school
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Richmond Hill, Ontario Bayview/Hwy 407 "Lauremont School is a leading, accredited independent school that offers a unique design of Montessori and International Baccalaureate programmes. Our students thrive in academics while building a foundation for life." —From the school
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Winnipeg, Manitoba Langside St./Westminster Ave. "Recognizing each student's potential in their pursuit of excellence, we encourage progress, we develop opportunities, and we advocate belonging as they create paths that take them into uncharted territories." —From the school
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Burlington, Ontario Walkers Line/Fairveiw Street "Ashwood Glen, an IB World School from JK to Gr, 1-8, fosters leadership, global citizenship, & a growth mindset. Our warm, inclusive community & personalized approach empower confident, future-ready students to thrive!" —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Don Mill Rd/York Mills Rd "Bayview Glen is co-ed, multi-denominational and diverse. Our student, faculty and staff community mirror the diversity of Toronto. Our culture is one of balance and openness, and embraces different perspectives." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario "At Central Montessori School (CMS), young minds are inspired to be creative, innovative, and inquisitive. We cultivate bright, young leaders and strong communicators ready for the 21st century." —From the school
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Mississauga, Ontario Lakeshore Road/Southdown "Peel Montessori and Carrington College div. students learn above grade level for subjects of strength. Individualized curriculum, advanced academic strategies, and character development give students a personal edge." —From the school
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London, Ontario "Matthews Hall aims to inspire academic excellence and a lifetime of joyful learning in the students we serve. We offer a trusted and balanced journey of academic, character and leadership development to our students." —From the school
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Mississauga, Ontario Cawthra Road/QEW "Our mission is to empower students to become compassionate and engaged citizens who are capable of using their academic, artistic, and environmental knowledge to effect positive change in their communities." —From the school
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Richmond Hill, Ontario Yonge Street/Silverwood Ave. "Century Private School is located in Richmond Hill, and our campus occupies 12 acres of land. Our programs runs from preschool to grade twelve, with small class ratio to ensure best learning for our students." —From the school
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Oakville, Ontario QEW/Ford Drive / Ninth Line "La Villa Montessori is an AMI recognized school that adheres to Dr. Montessori's principles. We provide a nurturing environment that fulfills the child's emotional, social, physical and intellectual needs." —From the school
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Calgary, Alberta "Calgary French & International School's immersive language learning environment and enriched curriculum inspires a deep curiosity, respect and exploration of the world for children aged 19 months to 18 years." —From the school
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Brantford, Ontario Charlotte St/Chatham St "Located in Brantford, Ontario, Montessori House of Children provides excellent programs for grades Nursery to 3 and helps young children reach their learning potential with both independent and self-directed learning." —From the school
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Ottawa, Ontario Alta Vista Drive/Industrial Road "OMS Montessori is a non for profit, independent school offering separate French and English programs within a world class Montessori environment." —From the school
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Burlington, Ontario Walkers Line/Fairview Street "Fairview Glen Montessori offers academically stimulating education for children 18 mo.-14 yrs. Our collaborative and supportive community, also specializes in French, Music, Visual Arts and Phys-Ed programs." —From the school
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Thornhill, Ontario Bathurst St/Rutherford Rd "Toronto Waldorf School offers a curriculum that integrates academics, arts and movement while addressing the intellectual, physical, emotional and social aspects of child development from preschool to gr. 12." —From the school
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Richmond Hill, Ontario Leslie/Elgin Mills "In addition to providing high-quality Montessori education, YMS offers French and Music, on-site after-school classes, off-site field trips, theme-based summer camp, parent education workshops, and family social events." —From the school
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Kelowna, British Columbia Hwy 97/John Hindle Drive "Aberdeen Hall Preparatory School in Kelowna, British Columbia offers programs for Preschool to Grade 12 with enrollment of 700 day students and class sizes that range from 16-22 students." —From the school
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Mississauga, Ontario Tomken Rd./Eglinton Ave. E "Northstar Montessori offers an accredited Montessori curriculum from Toddler age to Grade 8. Our goal is to develop strong character and contributing citizens who understand that their involvement makes a difference." —From the school
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North York, Ontario York Mills/Leslie "We follow the Montessori philosophy: connection before instruction. We customize, personalize, and honor the individuality of every child, nurturing growth through trust, respect, and thoughtful guidance." —From the school
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Vaughan, Ontario Major Mackenzie/400 "Balanced Academics, Arts, Athletics & Student Wellness. We value best practices & evidence-based approaches. University preparatory & 21st Century Tech-Rich & Future Proof school. Enriched and rigorous curriculum." —From the school
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Unionville, Ontario Kennedy Road/16th Avenue "UC offers year-ahead advanced programs from pre-school to Grade 10. We blend high standards for academic success with the social and emotional development of the individual child." —From the school
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St. Catharines, Ontario Edinburgh Dr/Scott Street "We provide students with opportunities to explore real-world concepts and issues, broadening their sense of responsibility, develop their critical thinking skills, and empower them to take action in a global community." —From the school
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Whitchurch-stouffville, Ontario Ninth Line/Main Street "Toronto French Montessori offers French and English programs from pre-school to grade 8 in North York, and Toddler programs in Stouffville. Its average class size is 15 students." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Don Mills Rd/York Mills Rd "Building on internationally acclaimed preschool reading success, SLI has grown into a hub for ground-breaking student achievement in literary, scientific, coding, and entrepreneurial achievement across Pre-K - Gr 6." —From the school
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Oshawa, ON, Ontario "DMS is a Montessori school servicing children at the early childhood level. DMS offers authentic Montessori programming with the Montessori pedagogy at the core of the children's day." —From the school
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Kirkland, Quebec Rue Edmond/Ch Ste-Marie "Kuper Academy offers programs from pre-school to Pre-University (Grade 12) in Kirkland. Its average class size is 22 students." —From the school
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Markham, Ontario McCowan Road/Highway 7 "Wesley Christian Academy offers programs from Toddler to Grade 8 in Markham. As we are a Christian school, we share our beliefs with all our students but we warmly welcome families from ALL faiths and backgrounds!" —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario York Mills/Leslie "Hawthorn is the only independent, Catholic-inspired, all girls school in Toronto that provides character education, personal mentorship, and a classical liberal arts education that is university preparatory." —From the school
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North Vancouver, British Columbia Wellington Dr/Fromme Rd "Cousteau School offers a bilingual French-English education with a dual curriculum: the French Ministry of Education program and the BC curriculum, fostering academic excellence and global citizenship." —From the school
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Oakville, Ontario Lakeshore Road East/Bel Air Drive "Offering Montessori programs from Toddler to Grade 8, Dearcroft is accredited by CCMA and staffed by dedicated teachers. We have three campuses in Oakville, delivering exceptional Montessori Programs." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Bathurst St./Eglinton Ave. West "Please bring your child for a free trial and let him or her experience the difference. Don't be surprised if he or she doesn't want to go home at the end of the day! SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS AVAILABLE!" —From the school
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Calgary, Alberta Garrison Blvd SW/33 Ave SW "Experience exceptional bilingual education in Calgary with dual French Ministry & Alberta Education curricula. A unique bilingual journey from preschool to high school! Join us now!" —From the school
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Edmonton, Alberta Groat Road/107 Avenue "Progressive Academy's programs inspire students from preschool to grade 12 in Edmonton, Alberta. Wonderful faculty, wide range of experiential opportunities and high expectations ignite a desire to learn." —From the school
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Mississauga, Ontario Dixie Road/South Service Road "The close-knit community at Star delivers on Learn to Love to Learn™ with passionate, talented educators beginning at Kindergarten. Our Five Pillars of Child Development guide learning experiences at all grade levels." —From the school
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Ottawa, Ontario Baseline Rd./Woodroffe Ave. "Bishop Hamilton Montessori School, a not-for-profit independent school in Ottawa, provides an authentic Christian Montessori approach for children 3 months to 14 years." —From the school
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Markham, Ontario Denison/Warden "Our curriculum are designed to build essential skills and concepts that help with the cognitive, social, creative, emotional, and physical development of your child with the aim to be a successful learner for life!" —From the school
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Richmond, British Columbia "A Preparatory Daycare featuring over 100,000 sq ft of Academic, Arts and Athletic Facilities, all on site, at the new Belvedere Club in Richmond, BC." —From the school
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St. Catharines, Ontario Ontario St./Welland Ave. "Heuristic & autodidactic, inspired by Sudbury & democratic models. Students are self-directed, and holistically empowered. Voluntary attendance, year-round calendar, agency, & consent inspire free learning. Also Forest" —From the school
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Rigaud, Quebec Rue Saint-Pierre/Rue Bourget "Collège Bourget is a day and boarding school located between Montreal and Ottawa. French and English high school programs are offered. Bourget aims to foster personal autonomy, academic development, and perseverance." —From the school
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Ottawa, Ontario Vaughan Street/Bertrand Street "Ottawa’s Fern Hill School offers Preschool, Kindergarten and Elementary Grades, including Core & Advanced French. Tuition starts at $3,250." —From the school
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Oakville, Ontario Dundas Streeet/Ninth Line "Fern Hill School is a private school for Preschool through Grade 8 providing enriched learning that is delivered by passionate teachers. Our school is regarded as one of the pre-eminent elementary schools in Canada." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Yonge/Sheppard "Wise Owl fosters a safe, enriching environment, celebrating uniqueness, inspiring resilience, emotional well-being, and responsibility, nurturing students into respectful global citizens." —From the school
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North Vancouver, British Columbia Lynn Valley Rd./St. Christophers Rd. "Vancouver Waldorf School is where students grow to meet the world with creativity, resilience, and critical thinking. We emphasize a developmental approach to learning that equips them to thrive in this complex world." —From the school
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Markham, Ontario Woodbine/HWY 7 "Wishing Well Schools offers an accelerated, enriched curriculum in a supportive, family-focused environment, where students thrive, lead, and develop a lifelong love of learning." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Leslie Street/York Mills Road "The Giles School has small class sizes, leadership programs and intensive STEAM learning that support both immersion and introductory language programming in English, French and Mandarin." —From the school
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Ottawa, Ontario Donald St/Frances St "Promote academic excellence that stimulates the acquisition of language skills, the development of scientific and artistic competencies as well as the formation of a critical mind, in a multicultural environment." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Bayview/Eglinton "CGS represents a strong sense of community where we partner with our families and experienced team of educators to promote a balanced academic-and-values based environment; diversity and inclusion are paramount." —From the school
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Belleville, Ontario "Discover an exceptional education. Albert College is an independent boarding and day school for students in Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12." —From the school
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Markham, Ontario Woodbine Ave/Hooper Rd "Early Learning Centre to Grade 12. Discipline. Character. Respect. Complete your child's academic and spiritual foundation. Discover why PCA students excel!" —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario John/Richmond "At BBMS our prime goal is to ensure the overall health, safety and well-being of each child while in our care. We look forward to working together with families in the best interest of their children." —From the school
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Markham, Ontario 14th Ave/Kennedy "Trillium School is a private school that offers programs from pre-school to grade twelve in Markham with Montessori-based kindergarten." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Dufferin/Eglinton "The Lycée Français de Toronto combines exceptional French education, native French-speaking teachers, bilingual excellence, and a warm, nurturing culture to prepare students for global success." —From the school
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Ottawa, Ontario St. Laurent Blvd./Montreal Rd. "Our mission is personalized student academic success in a friendly and caring school community, in which all students are emotionally supported and socially welcome." —From the school
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Ottawa, Ontario Place Lycée Pl./Ruelle Hinks Lane "Our goal is to nurture curious spirits, which is why we value a multilingual pedagogy that encourages both French immersion and a wide selection of langage courses. French and excellence are our priorities." —From the school
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Kanata, Ontario Eagleson Road/Stonehaven Drive "For 50 years, Kanata Montessori has offered excellent learning environments for students to grow emotionally, socially and academically into a positive global citizen." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario University Ave./Dundas street "Cornerstone students love to shape the future. They INSPIRE learning, DISCOVER their potential, EMPOWER themselves to be innovative citizens. Our boundless learning strategies open doors for successful learning." —From the school
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Calgary, Alberta Bowness Rd NW/Bow Crescent NW "River Valley School is Calgary’s only independent school for ages 3–Grade 6, where wonder fuels learning, childhood is celebrated, and every student is known, inspired, and empowered to thrive." —From the school
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Mississauga, Ontario Derry/HWY 27 "Housed in state-of-the-art facilities, we offer a 48-year legacy of providing a perfect learning environment with enriched academic, arts, & athletic programs - inspiring every student to be extraordinary." —From the school
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North York, Ontario "Why Choose Adelfiha Christian Academy? Biblical Foundation Small Student/Teacher Ratios High Academic Standards Diverse Extracurriculars Loving, Safe Environment" —From the school
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Markham, Ontario Woodbine Ave/Major Mackenzie Dr E "Royal Cachet has authentic Montessori programs for infants to grade 6 in our healthy and safe environments. We focus on the Language & Math areas of the Montessori Curriculum & encourage our students to grow and succeed." —From the school
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Newmarket, Ontario "Grace Christian Montessori School acknowledges each child as a masterpiece of God, unleashing their potential through a holistic blend of Montessori principles, STEAM, academic excellence, and biblical teachings." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario "GIST is Toronto’s only full-time German school, offering families in the GTA a gateway to a European education. In small, supportive classes, our CHARAKTER program nurtures every student’s individual potential." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Duplex Ave/St Clements Ave "At SCELS we believe giving children an early education will build a solid foundation to prepare them for their next school setting." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Queen/Church "Bloomsbury Academy’s unique integrated Montessori/Focus approach enables our students to develop essential skills such as self-direction, collaborative problem-solving, and emotional intelligence." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario "Humberside Montessori School is internationally recognized and accredited by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Our AMI certified teachers provide an authentic Montessori experience for our students." —From the school
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Mississauga, Ontario Hurontario St/Matheson Blvd E "ABC Montessori is one of Mississauga's premier private schools. We offers montessori and traditional school programs from preschool to Grade 5 with an emphasis on developing literacy, numeracy, sciences, and arts." —From the school
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Summerland, British Columbia "Want your child to experience an education that goes beyond textbooks? UNISUS is a K-12 IB boarding school that strives to make education an enjoyable, memorable experience that fully prepares students for any future." —From the school
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Burlington, Ontario North Service Road/King Road "Fern Hill School provides an engaging & rigorous academic program for children from Preschool to Grade 8. Our traditional and structured approach focuses on developing intellectual curiosity, creativity & confidence." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Lawrence Ave./Bathurst St. "The Clover School's innovative curriculum combines Montessori essentials with heart-centred learning practices designed to nurture the mind, heart, health, and soul of each child." —From the school
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North Vancouver, British Columbia Keith Rd/Lynnmouth Ave "Collaborative and engaging, North Star's programs put students at the center of their learning and quest for knowledge." —From the school
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Pickering, Ontario whites/kingston road "Montessori Learning Centre is a non denominational, inclusive school in operation for 40 years. We acknowledge religious and cultural events supporting our whole life philosophy education." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Dufferin St/Lawrence Ave W "LDVA provides foundational education and challenges students to develop to their full potential. Officially recognized by the Italian Government, our unique curriculum incorporates Italian language and culture." —From the school
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Markham, Ontario Woodbine/16th Avenue "Trinity Montessori School offers programs from toddler to grade six in Markham, Ontario. Its average class size is nine students." —From the school
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Markham, Ontario Brimley Road/14th Ave "Founded in 1990, Yip's Montessori Program caters to children from 1.5 to 5 years old. Yip's campuses are located in Markham and Unionville." —From the school
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Etobicoke, Ontario Bloor/Shaver "Kingsley's small classes and personal approach help students reach their unique potential. Each child is seen, heard, and respected. French, music, and phys-ed round out a program which includes plenty of time outdoors." —From the school
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Etobicoke, Ontario Lakeshore and/Kipling "Our approach to learning surpasses traditional education outcomes by interweaving subjects for holistic understanding, fostering essential skills for navigating life challenges in social, emotional and academic contexts." —From the school
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Aurora, Ontario St. John Sideroad/Yonge St. "Aurora Montessori offers an enriched Montessori program for students, Toddler to Grade 8, with an option of an OSSD credit in Grade 9 Math. A unique Mindfulness and Technology program develops key 21st-century skills!" —From the school
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Mississauga, Ontario Glen Erin/Dundas "Kaban Montessori School is a CCMA accredited school in the west area of Mississauga . Our environments foster each child's interests and abilities while supporting them to achieve their full potential." —From the school
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Brantford, Ontario Fairview Drive/North Park Street "Braemar House School is a nurturing community where academic excellence meets innovative learning. With small classes and enriched education, we cultivate well-rounded, confident, and compassionate students." —From the school
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Meet them at the Expo
North York, Ontario Bayview/Sheppard "Bannockburn provides a strong academic foundation anchored in the principles of the Montessori philosophy that supports your child’s intellectual, moral, social, and emotional development in a nurturing environment." —From the school
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West Vancouver, British Columbia Upper Levels Highway/Cypress Bowl exit "By inspiring excellence – the continuous pursuit of personal best - in education and life, Mulgrave strives to equip lifelong learners to thrive in a diverse and interdependent world." —From the school
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North Vancouver, British Columbia "Saplings is the North Shore’s ONLY nature-based school which teaches your students the curriculum through hands-on outdoor experiences. Supporting deeper learning through concept-based and competency-driven approaches" —From the school
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Whitby, Ontario Brock Street South/Dundas Streer West "The Hatch House Montessori School is a very child centered school where each student is respected for their uniqueness and is guided through learning accordingly. Ask about our unique, fully bilingual elementary program." —From the school
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Mississauga, Ontario Hurontario/Queensway "Shepherd Montessori Private Catholic School in Mississauga offers Casa Montessori programs for children a ged 2.5 to 6. Before- and after-school care and summer camps also available." —From the school
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Meet them at the Expo
Mississauga, Ontario Erin Mills Pkwy/Millcreek Drive "Western Heights offers an enriched Montessori program that fosters a love of learning. The school actively engages its close-knit parent community to offer an enriched curriculum that adapts to each student's needs." —From the school
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Meet them at the Expos
Mississauga, Ontario Cawthra/Lakeshore "TFS - Canada's International School (West Campus) offers the Ontario, France and IB programs from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 7 in Mississauga. We are bilingual, coed, non-denominational and and IB World School." —From the school
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Amaranth, Ontario "The Maples is an established private IB World School in Orangeville, Ontario providing exemplary education for students (Pre-School to Grade 8). French instruction in PS and Kindergarten with an academic focus." —From the school
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Kitchener, Ontario "InnovOak is built on surpassing Ontario standards, emphasizing skill-based academic excellence. Our LifeReady program ensures real-world readiness, preparing students for tomorrow using a sensible and innovative approach" —From the school
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Richmond Hill, Ontario Major Mackenzie/Bayview Avenue "Richmond Hill Montessori Private School offers programs from pre-school to grade eight. Its average class size is 20 students." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Queen Street East/Glen Manor Drive "Our objective is to guide children with respect and understanding, developing in them a love of learning. Our aim is to create a nurturing environment full of intellectual, social and moral learning and development." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Finch Avenue/Islington Avenue "Nile Academy offers small class sizes and a low student-to-teacher ratio, while also following the Ontario Curriculum, ensuring our students are well prepared for the rest of their educational pursuits here in Canada." —From the school
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Duncan, British Columbia Brownsey Avenue/Government Street "Queen Margaret's School is a gender inclusive independent day/boarding university preparatory school in Duncan, BC that focuses on preparing young trailblazers...no two journeys are the same." —From the school
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Oshawa, Ontario Wilson Road/Adelaide Ave "At G.B.MS, D.E.P.S and Durham Academy Secondary school focus is on each individual student and helping them meet their unique potential and goals. We believe in excellent customer service and families have a voice. Throughout the year we enhance our programs through program enhancement and enrichment." —From the school
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Meet them at the Expo
Markham, Ontario Kennedy Road/Steeles Avenue "Located in Markham, Ontario, Town Centre Private Schools is an IB Continuum World School offering a Montessori Pre-School program, IB Elementary School, High School and optional IB Diploma Programme." —From the school
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Meet them at the Expo
Burlington, Ontario Appleby Line/Upper Middle Road "Halton Waldorf School offers an education that fosters confidence, independence and intelligence. Located on five forested acres, the school has been uniquely designed to support the goals of Waldorf education. Est 1984" —From the school
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Pickering, Ontario Kingston/Altona "École Montessori is Durham Region's premier French private school dedicated to transforming your child into a bilingual critical thinker with our enriched curriculum that fosters the genius within each student." —From the school
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Milton-Campbellville, Ontario Highway 401/Guelph Line "At Hitherfield we believe that every child is unique, and has their own strengths and interests. With individualized programming, Hitherfield continues to nurture growth, success and confidence in our students. " —From the school
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The youngest learners: 18 months to 3 years
(June 25, 2019)
The Earlier Education Begins, the Better
Research shows the period when a child is five months to five years of age is a very critical time for early learning (June 12, 2019)
Preschools in Canada
The benefits of attending preschool go much deeper than simply better school performance (May 30, 2019)
What is a play-based preschool?
The main features and benefits of play-based preschools (May 30, 2019)
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