Preschool costs in the United States are rising at an alarming rate. In fact, for some families, enrolling their child in preschool may cost as much as college tuition or may be nearly the same as their mortgage payment.
Differences between Preschool and Daycare
Preschool and daycare centers are not the same. Preschool is specifically designed for children between the ages of 2 and 6. On the other hand, daycare centers enroll children of many varying ages ranging from infants to elementary school aged children. Preschools can be government sponsored or privately run.
As well, preschool curriculum focuses on a specific educational approach and emphasizes kindergarten readiness whereas most daycares may be more childcare oriented than educational. Because of this difference, preschool is usually a more expensive option than other types of care.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Preschool
Annually, preschool costs can range from $3,800 to $10,900 annually according to the National Association of Child Care Resources and Referral Agencies.
How much parents can expect to pay for preschool is dependent upon a variety of factors:
Quality and Services of the Preschool
Preschool costs will vary depending upon the quality of the preschool and the services offered. Parents will pay more for high-quality, stimulating curriculum that focuses on kindergarten-readiness. In addition, for those preschools that adhere to the strictest of requirements for quality and safety, like smaller class sizes, parents will pay more. If the school offers specialty services like second language learning or unique health and nutrition services, parents will also pay a higher price. The cost of the facility and transportation services may raise tuition payments overall.
Part-time vs. Full-time Care
If parents enroll a child in preschool part time, only during the summer months, or only a few times a week, they will pay considerably less than full time care.
Geographic Location
Preschool costs will vary depending upon a family’s location in the United States, since the cost of living and childcare costs go hand-in-hand. Alabama and Nevada are the most affordable states while the District of Columbia and Massachusetts have the highest annual average preschool rates.
Reducing Preschool Costs
One way for parents to reduce preschool costs is to enroll their child in a cooperative preschool, or “co-op” preschool. The cooperative preschool program is a non profit organization that requires parent participation. A qualified teacher, director, and staff are often employed, but parents are relied upon to run the school and assist in the classroom on a rotational basis. Parents also conduct the non-profit business of the preschool. This is a less expensive, yet high-quality, option.
When choosing a preschool program, in addition to cost, it is important to consider a child’s needs, the quality of the program, the preschool’s physical environment, and the qualifications of the staff.
