Best Preschools in Portland: A 2025 Parent's Guide

Portland, Oregon, offers a diverse range of preschools to accommodate different educational philosophies, family needs, and learning styles. Whether you’re looking for play-based programs, Montessori education, or faith-based instruction, Portland has an option to fit your child’s needs.

This guide broadly highlights some of the best preschools in Portland, categorized by their unique teaching approaches and features. That said, if want personalized recommendations for your specific child's needs, chat with the Preschools Near Me AI to get a more thorough breakdown.

Play-Based and Community-Oriented Preschools

These preschools emphasize learning through play and foster a strong sense of community among children and families.

Kenilworth Community Preschool

• Approach: Reggio-inspired, play-based curriculum
• Features: Half-day programs for ages 3–5, creative use of art materials like clay and paints, and a spacious outdoor area
• Focus: Encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and community engagement

Sellwood Community House

• Approach: Play-based with a child-led curriculum
• Features: Early literacy and numeracy activities integrated with social-emotional development
• Focus: Teaching cooperation, empathy, and fostering a positive self-image

Academically Focused Preschools

These schools combine academic rigor with social-emotional growth to prepare children for kindergarten and beyond.

Peake Academy

• Approach: Blends academic excellence with play and discovery
• Features: Programs for ages 1–8, enrichment classes, and parent support services like "Parent Date Nights"
• Focus: Developing a lifelong love of learning through meaningful connections

City View Charter School (Cub Crew Preschool)

• Approach: A dynamic learning environment encouraging inquiry and exploration
• Features: Child-accessible displays that evolve based on student interests
• Focus: Cultivating curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills

Faith-Based Preschools

For families seeking a faith-centered education, these schools integrate spiritual values with early childhood development.

St. Ignatius School

• Approach: Catholic education with hands-on learning opportunities
• Features: Full-day preschool programs, service learning projects, music, PE, and library classes
• Focus: Developing compassionate global citizens in the Jesuit tradition

St. Rose School

• Approach: Faith-based education emphasizing community values
• Features: PreK–8th grade programs in a small community setting
• Focus: Instilling a sense of respect, service, and lifelong learning

Montessori Preschools

These schools follow the Montessori method, which promotes independence, hands-on learning, and respect for a child’s natural development.

Franciscan Montessori Earth School

• Approach: Montessori principles combined with environmental stewardship
• Features: Experiential learning inspired by Dr. Maria Montessori’s methods and St. Francis’s spirituality
• Focus: Encouraging respect for self, others, and the environment

Bethany Village Montessori

• Location: NW Portland
• Features: Small class sizes ensure individualized attention
• Focus: Supporting a child’s natural curiosity and self-directed learning

Nature-Based Preschools

Nature-based programs emphasize outdoor learning and environmental education to foster a connection with nature.

Wildflowers Preschool (Top-Rated)

• Location: SE Portland
• Features: Daily outdoor exploration and hands-on environmental learning
• Focus: Encouraging environmental awareness and appreciation for nature

Specialized Programs

For families seeking unique educational offerings, these schools incorporate specialized subjects such as gymnastics or language immersion.

OMEGA Gymnastics Discovery Preschool

• Approach: Combines physical education with cognitive development
• Features: Gymnastics-based curriculum that builds self-confidence, balance, and coordination
• Focus: Teaching cooperation skills through movement and play

International School of Portland (Language Immersion)

• Features: Full immersion programs in Spanish, Chinese, or Japanese, combined with traditional preschool activities
• Focus: Early bilingual development and cultural awareness

Top Private Preschools

Private preschools offer small class sizes, specialized curricula, and a comprehensive educational experience.

Catlin Gabel School

• Approach: A prestigious private school offering a PK–12 education
• Focus: Academic excellence, personal growth, and inquiry-based learning

Oregon Episcopal School (OES)

• Approach: Episcopal values integrated with rigorous academics
• Features: A PK–12 curriculum with an emphasis on critical thinking and community service
• Focus: Fostering intellectual curiosity and ethical leadership

Additional Considerations

When choosing a preschool in Portland, consider the following factors:

• Learning Style: Determine whether your child thrives in a play-based, structured, or mixed learning environment.
• Tuition Costs: Private preschools in Portland average around $11,676 annually.
• Tour the Schools: Schedule classroom visits to observe interactions and meet teachers.
• Part-Time vs. Full-Time Options: Many schools offer flexible part-time schedules for families with varying needs.

Final Thoughts

Portland offers a wide range of preschool options, ensuring that every family can find the right fit for their child’s early education. Whether you prioritize play-based learning, Montessori methods, or academic preparation, the best preschools in Portland provide enriching environments for young learners.

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