Manchester, VT

Manchester Early Childhood Center is a highly-regarded local facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. They emphasize play-based learning within a structured environment, focusing on social-emotional development and school readiness. The center features experienced early childhood educators with low student-teacher ratios, secure facilities with monitored access, and age-appropriate learning spaces. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, creative arts, and outdoor play in their safe playground areas. The center is known for its warm, nurturing environment and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.

Located just 15 minutes from Manchester, Stratton Child Care Center serves the broader Manchester area with high-quality childcare services. As part of Stratton Mountain Resort, they offer exceptional facilities including dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and extensive outdoor play areas. Their educational approach combines Montessori-inspired activities with traditional early childhood education, focusing on developmental milestones. The center employs certified early childhood educators and maintains rigorous safety protocols including secure check-in systems and comprehensive background checks. They're particularly noted for their engaging nature-based curriculum and flexible scheduling options for working families.

The Dorset School's preschool program, located just 10 minutes from Manchester Center, offers a public school-based early childhood education experience. This program features state-certified early childhood special educators and follows Vermont's Early Learning Standards. Their play-based curriculum emphasizes literacy development, mathematical thinking, and social skills through structured learning centers and hands-on activities. The facility includes dedicated preschool classrooms, gross motor development areas, and access to school resources like the library and outdoor playgrounds. The program is acclaimed for its inclusive approach, serving children with diverse learning needs, and its strong transition support to kindergarten.