Sierra DawsonChoosing the right spot for your little one can feel like a full-time job. Between the waitlists and the endless tours, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the choices in the Mile High City.
You want a place that nurtures their curiosity, keeps them safe, and actually fits your commute. From Montessori methods to play-based learning, the pressure to choose the right environment is intense.
To help you breathe a little easier, I’ve dug into the local scene to find the top spots for early education. Here is my guide to the best preschools in Denver.
How much does Preschool cost in Denver?
Denver isn’t exactly cheap, and childcare costs definitely reflect that. You can generally expect to pay around $1,500 to $1,600 a month for full-time care, which is roughly the cost of a decent studio apartment in some neighborhoods. Of course, this varies wildly depending on whether you go for a premium center or a home-based setup. Some places might dip down to $500, while others soar past $2,600. If you need a standard five-day program, budget somewhere in the middle.
1. Hope Center
Website: https://www.hopecenterinc.org/
Address: 3400 N Elizabeth St, Denver, CO 80205, United States
Contact: +13033884801
Hours: Mon – Fri: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Finding a preschool that prepares children academically while giving them room to develop their own personalities can be challenging. HOPE Early Childhood Education takes a personalized approach to early learning, with programs designed to support children’s intellectual, social-emotional and language development.
Founded in 1962, HOPE Center has spent more than six decades providing educational services to Denver families. Today, the organization serves more than 70 children and 35 adults daily and emphasizes programs that recognize the individual needs, abilities and backgrounds of the people it serves.
One of the biggest reasons HOPE Early Childhood Education stands out is its bilingual, multicultural and experiential approach to preschool education. Its preschool program serves children ages 2 and a half up to 5 years of age and gives them opportunities to develop, practice and use emerging social-emotional and language skills in a supportive learning environment.
The Center has historically partnered with the Gifted Development Center to assess and identify gifted and talented children as young as three. Hope has transitioned with a philosophy that assures every scholar receives a gifted curriculum.
Educators, staff, and leadership are incredible
The Hope Center and all their educators, staff, and leadership are incredible. I stopped in for a tour hoping to enroll my 2 year old into the toddler program and the directors Ms. Nichole Johnson and Dr. Eric Alan Rowe were extremely warm and welcoming.
The Hope Center features a beautiful modern dedicated music room with all kids of drums, keyboards, and even ukuleles! During my tour I got to see a preschool class practicing their instruments in the sun and they were so excited and full of joy.
Each classroom is themed after Black and Latino community leaders, activists, artists, musicians, and activists and the curriculum used in the entire center is multicultural, experiential and language-based.
We’ve toured a few different programs these past few weeks, but this was the first and only space that truly felt like home. My daughter even reached up and wanted to be held by Ms. Nichole the entire tour. We were greeted with love by staff and students during our time there-kids were giving my daughter hugs as we passed by.
We even returned the next day for their annual fashion show to be in community and it was so well executed and just adorable! It is apparent that kids are safe and happy at the Hope Center.
Many of my friends were raised in the Hope Center (I’m 32 years old) and now have their children enrolled. It continues to be a safe, loving, and supportive learning community for our newest generation of students. I cannot wait for my daughter to attend. I can’t sign my paperwork fast enough.
We are grateful for this outstanding community gem and proud to send our daughter here. Highly recommend!
- Christina Damon | Google Review
Wonderful staff and teachers
This has been a staple environment thru most of my family started here 20+ years ago. Now my great niece’s and nephew’s have attended, hope they are around for my granddaughter to attend in a few years. Thank you to all the wonderful staff and teachers.
- Renee Smith | Google Review
2. Sewall Child Development Center
Website: https://sewall.org/
Address: 940 Fillmore St., Denver, CO 80206
Contact: (303) 399-1800
Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:30am- 4:30/5:00pm
Sewall Child Development Center is a nonprofit early education provider that offers inclusive preschool programs for children of all abilities. Its approach emphasizes creating joyful learning environments where every child is encouraged to grow socially and academically.
One of Sewall’s greatest strengths is its commitment to inclusion. Children with different learning styles and developmental needs learn together while receiving individualized support tailored to their unique abilities.
The preschool program focuses on helping children build confidence, develop essential skills, and reach their fullest potential. Through partnerships with families and a welcoming community, Sewall promotes a strong sense of belonging for both children and parents.
Sewall also stands out for providing access to quality early education regardless of a family’s financial situation or a child’s individual needs. As a nonprofit organization, it strives to ensure that every child has the opportunity to benefit from its programs.
With multiple classroom locations across Denver, experienced staff, and decades of service since 1944, Sewall has established itself as a trusted resource for early childhood education. Its preschool classrooms are supported by additional family engagement and early intervention services that contribute to children’s overall development.
Overall, Sewall Child Development Center is an excellent choice for families seeking an inclusive preschool that values diversity, individualized learning, and community partnerships. Parents looking for a supportive environment where every child is welcomed and encouraged to succeed will likely appreciate the center’s mission and educational approach.
Customer Reviews
Sewall is incredible.
Sewall is incredible. Both of my kids have been going for nearly a year and we have developed close relationships with the support staff and teachers. My son has special needs and the teachers have been outstanding advocates for his developmental progress.
- Gavin Gillette | Google Review
Great environment, kind, inclusive, nurturing, fun, cultural, educational, active
My three kids went to Sewall, 2 nephews, and 2 nieces. Not 1 complaint. Great environment, kind, inclusive, nurturing, fun, cultural, educational, active …..and more. Everything you ever wanted for your kids and stuff you didn’t even know you wanted. We love Sewall
- Anna B | Google Review
3. The Goddard School of Denver
Website: https://www.goddardschool.com/schools/co/denver/denver
Address: 1400 S Emerson St
Contact: +1 303-722-2336
Hours: Mon – Fri: 7 AM – 6 PM
The Goddard School stands out immediately because of their proprietary Wonder of Learning curriculum. This was designed by experts to spark natural curiosity rather than just drilling facts.
I love that they back this up with Cognia accreditation, ensuring a holistic approach to your child’s growth.
On top of that, the safety tech here is honestly impressive, featuring biometric scanners that gave me peace of mind during my visit. It’s clear they prioritize security just as much as education.
However, it is worth noting the waitlist situation. It can be quite significant, often extending a year or longer.
To be fair, this is a remarkable trade-off: while it confirms the school is highly desirable and stable, it does present a real planning challenge if you are looking for immediate placement. You really need to get on the list early.
Customer Reviews
My wife and I both love this school
My wife and I both love this school. Our daughter had a tough time moving schools and her teacher has been so great in getting her integrated with new friends and feeling comfortable at school. It is really nice to have our child at a school that has great teachers and great administration. I’d strongly recommend the school to anyone.
- Anthony Smith | Google Review
The Goddard School at South Emerson is truly amazing
The Goddard School at South Emerson is truly amazing. They allow time for play and exploration, but also learning. Our kids look forward to school every day. The school staff and teachers go above and beyond with school activities, holiday events, and their day to day curriculum. Goddard has prepared our children well for Kindergarten. Would not have our kiddos at any other school!
- Daniel Arnold | Google Review
4. Iliff Preschool, Kindergarten and School-Age Summer Camp
Website: https://iliffpreschool.com/
Address: 4140 E Iliff Ave
Contact: +1 303-757-3551
Hours: Mon – Fri: 8 AM – 4 PM
Iliff Preschool wins the award for the coolest classroom with their “Charlie 21” airplane fuselage. It captures the imagination instantly and proves that learning environments don’t have to be boring.
Since they have been around for over 60 years, the sense of community history here is palpable.
That said, the staff is incredibly experienced, averaging over 25 years in education, so you know your kids are in steady hands.
They prioritize hands-on play over scripted lessons, which feels essential for this age group.
However, their strict 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM schedule may be challenging for parents who work a traditional 9-to-5 and have a commute.
Customer Reviews
I’m grateful to the school and amazing staff
I’m so grateful a friend recommended Iliff Preschool & Kinder. The school is an absolute gem, affordable with such kind, talented and sweet faculty all around. From Ms. Mary at the front desk to the classroom teachers, it’s such a joy and privilege to be in a school where my 3 year old kiddo is excited to attend and learn each day. My son has learned so much in the year we’ve been there and he hasn’t even started PreK. Plus, they’re affordable and work with families. I’m grateful to the school and amazing staff for making this a great experience.
- Jazmin Chavez | Google Review
The teachers are wonderful
Our daughter is in Pre-K at Iliff, and it has been a great experience! The teachers are wonderful, and the curriculum far exceeds our expectations. They learn STEM, Spanish, Music, Art, Handwriting, and have lots of outdoor play time. My daughter loves going to school every day and I love that she is in a safe and nurturing environment where she is learning new things!
- Amy Campbell | Google Review
5. Larks Preschool
Website: https://www.larkspreschool.com/
Address: 730 S Logan St
Contact: +1 303-778-9988
Hours: Mon – Fri: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Larks Preschool takes a refreshing Reggio-Emilia inspired approach that views every child as capable and strong.
Their multi-age classrooms are also a standout feature, allowing younger kids to learn from older peers. It creates a warm, family-like atmosphere where leadership skills and empathy develop naturally through everyday interactions.
With a consistently low student-to-teacher ratio, each child receives more personalized attention, ensuring no one gets overlooked or lost in the shuffle.
I spoke with a mom whose son currently attends the school, and she couldn’t stop raving about their partnership with a dedicated speech pathologist.
She shared that this collaboration adds meaningful value by providing extra developmental support and peace of mind for families.
If you’re considering enrolling and learning more about the school, be aware that booking a tour can be tricky. They only offer on-site visits on Fridays after school, which might be hard to fit into a hectic week.
Customer Reviews
Our twins have been so happy at Larks!
Our twins have been so happy at Larks! It is a lovely neighborhood school with a low student:teacher ratio, warm, talented and experienced teachers, and a creative, age-appropriate program. The school also builds strong community amongst the families with monthly playdates and family dinners. Most importantly, our kids have grown so much already, and are having a great first experience at school. We toured many schools before landing on Larks, and highly recommend!
- Sambi | Google Review
We are happy to continue sending our children to Larks every week!
We love Larks! The most wonderful (consistent) teachers and environment for our two children. I love that all ages interact together instead of being separated by age. Finding a play based preschool with a child led approach vs overly structured and rigid was important to me and we found that at Larks. Monthly play dates and family dinners helps to create a wonderful community for children and parents. 3 years in and we are happy to continue sending our children to Larks every week!
- Kelly King Adams | Google Review
6. Primrose School at the Denver Tech Center
Website: https://www.primroseschools.com/schools/denver-tech-center
Address: 8745 E Orchard Rd #500, Greenwood Village
Contact: +1 303-993-3665
Hours: Mon – Fri: 7 AM – 6 PM
Primrose School at the Denver Tech Center excels with their Balanced Learning approach, mixing teacher guidance with child-led play.
They use these adorable puppets to teach character traits like honesty and generosity, making abstract concepts stick.
It’s a thoughtful way to weave social-emotional learning naturally into each day while supporting children’s overall growth.
The convenient location right off I-25 is a lifesaver for Tech Center commuters, and the wide range of classrooms ensures support for every developmental stage.
The main drawback for some families is their strict vaccination policy, as they do not accept immunization exemptions, which can limit enrollment options.
For many others, however, this strong emphasis on health and safety is a major advantage.
Customer Reviews
Primrose DTC is fantastic!
Primrose DTC is fantastic! The staff is excellent and the structure of the program is top notch. We were very happy with the overall experience provided to our son. Communication, structure, education, and overall happy environment for the kids to learn and grow. Couldn’t recommend any more highly.
- Cory T | Google Review
The teachers are caring and skilled, and our kids have truly thrived here
We’ve had both of our children at Primrose School at the Denver Tech Center since they were 4 months old, and the experience has been fantastic. The administration is responsive and organized, the teachers are caring and skilled, and our kids have truly thrived here. Highly recommend.
- Jason Krueger | Google Review
