Sun Valley, ID

The Community School's Early Childhood Program offers a comprehensive developmental approach for young children aged 3-5 years. The program emphasizes play-based learning, social-emotional development, and kindergarten readiness through a structured yet flexible curriculum. Certified early childhood educators with advanced degrees lead small class sizes, ensuring individualized attention. The facility features dedicated early childhood classrooms, outdoor learning environments, and access to the broader campus resources. What sets this program apart is its integration with the independent school community, providing exceptional resources and a seamless educational pathway. The program maintains excellent teacher-to-student ratios and focuses on developing foundational literacy, numeracy, and social skills through hands-on, experiential learning.

Located just minutes from Sun Valley in neighboring Ketchum, Little Stars Learning Center provides comprehensive childcare services for children from 6 weeks to 12 years. The center follows a research-based curriculum that combines Montessori principles with play-based learning, focusing on whole-child development. All lead teachers hold early childhood education credentials, and the center maintains exceptionally low child-to-teacher ratios. The facility features age-appropriate learning environments, secure outdoor play areas, and modern safety systems including keypad entry and comprehensive security monitoring. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, nutritional meal program, and the staff's dedication to creating a nurturing, educational environment that prepares children for academic success.

The Blaine County Family YMCA Preschool, serving the Sun Valley area from its Ketchum location, offers a values-based early childhood education program rooted in the YMCA's character development principles. The curriculum focuses on building confidence, cooperation, and cognitive skills through structured learning centers, creative arts, and physical activities. Certified early childhood educators implement a balanced approach that includes literacy development, STEM exploration, and social skills building. The program benefits from the YMCA's extensive facilities including indoor gymnasiums, swimming pools (for older children), and outdoor play spaces. The center is particularly noted for its inclusive environment, financial assistance programs, and strong emphasis on community involvement and character education.