Preschools in E. Wichita/Derby area (Kansas City, Andover: work, college, moving to)

[cjones15]

We will be moving to the area fairly soon. I'm looking for a preschool program for my 4 year old daughter to attend. Right now she is in a small church based program 2 days a week. I've done some searching and haven't been able to find a similar program in east Wichita or Derby. More then likely we will be living in Derby. I also have a school aged child so won't have a lot of time in the mornings to drive far. We are wanting a program that is 4-5 days a week, half days or so. We are not wanting a daycare unless a part-time schedule is possible

If anyone can give me a few leads I would appreciate it.

[cjones15]

Anyone????

[athfo]

Maybe this might help?

Child Care - Wichita, Kansas

[stepmom3]

I'm sorry, I didn't see this entry until now! Woodlawn United Methodist Church in Derby (on south Woodlawn Street) has a preschool program. I personally haven't spoken to anyone whose children participate, but I know that the church is located about two blocks south of the Derby Recreation Center, so hopefully they take advantage of the facility. I wish I could be of more help.

[cjones15]

Originally Posted by stepmom3

I'm sorry, I didn't see this entry until now! Woodlawn United Methodist Church in Derby (on south Woodlawn Street) has a preschool program. I personally haven't spoken to anyone whose children participate, but I know that the church is located about two blocks south of the Derby Recreation Center, so hopefully they take advantage of the facility. I wish I could be of more help.

I did look into their program. If I remember correctly it is only for a couple hours 2-3 days a week. We are wanting a program that is full time. It is very common in the area we are in right now. The preschool my daughter currently attends is from 9-2. She goes 2 days a week but next year she would transition to 4 days a week. I'm just not finding anything like that in the area.

Thank you for your suggestion!! I appreciate it.

[stepmom3]

I live just south of Derby, and I don't have little ones but some of my neighbors do. I'll ask around tomorrow and find out where they take their kids. Apparently you want a faith-based program; is there a particular denomination you want to connect with?

[cjones15]

Thank you!!! I'm not set on it being a faith based program. That just seems to be the most common preschool programs. I'm really wanting something that will be more then 2 days a week and longer then just 2-3 hours a day. My daughter is 4 so I'm wanting to make sure she is prepared for kindergarten. She seems to do much better when she is around other children and learning with them. I did call one I believe at the Lutheran church but they have never called me back. I didn't care for the hours of the program but something is better then nothing.

We will be moving to Derby sometime this summer. I appreciate your help!!!

[stepmom3]

Sorry it took me so long to get back to you. I'm an online non-traditional college student and I've had a ton of classwork and an exam to get through!

I called every child care center in Derby and the immediate surrounding area, and the vast majority are only accepting kids on a full-time basis. I did, however, find one in Derby. I spoke to Sherry, the director; she stated that they do accept children on a part time basis, their hours of operation are from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm, and they will have openings this summer for four year olds. She stated that there is a kindergarten preparatory curriculum called the "New Foundations" program and mentioned phonetic reading lessons, computer access, and many other educationally engaging activities. The facility is located on the corner of Rock Road and Walnut Grove. I'm not sure what neighborhood in Derby you plan to move to, but if you've visited the area you know that the section of town I'm talking about is located within the 1-1/2 mile stretch of new development in the area -- or maybe this will help: it's right across the street from the high school. I told her that you would be moving to the area this summer: she would like to speak to you, and stated that it would be advisable to fill out the paperwork now, if possible. I'm not sure if I should post the contact information, but I'll give it a whirl. The director's name is Sherry, the center is called KinderCare, the local phone number is 316-712-4172, and the rest is up to you. Good luck!

[kcarico]

Hi there, I too was in your shoes just over a year ago. We moved from Kansas City, and I had really high standards from my daughter's preschool. She is also 4 years old. We checked out several in the area, and since we live in Andover, we wanted something close. We found Eastminster Preschool on Webb Rd., and it is the most wonderful, caring preschool that I could ask for. She goes 3 days a week, and the cost is $125.00 The curriculum is great,they offer music, PE, art, sign language, reading, spelling, everything that you want in a preschool. We are extremely happy there, and I hope that you check it out.I also highly recommend Andover instead of Derby, I also have an 8 yr old, and have found the schools here fabulous. I hope this helps!!

[cjones15]

We did find a preschool. I wish it was a little longer in length but they seem to offer everything we are looking for!!! We did look into the Andover area but weren't impressed. Derby seems to fit our needs much better. I'm glad you found an area that fit you!!!!!!!!