Local services · Columbia, SC/Updated June 13, 2026
The Best Preschools in Columbia, SC
Finding the right preschool is essential for your child's early development. Here are the best options in Columbia, SC.
MHMaya Hendricks · Home Services Editor Updated June 13, 2026 · Next review July 2026
Editorially independent8 companies evaluated
cover story
★ Editor's ChoiceSt. Andrews Baptist Weekday
96Score
Latest update · June 13, 2026: Initial ranking published. 8 Columbia-metro preschools businesses evaluated, top 8 ranked by Vetted Score.
Choosing a preschool is a significant decision for parents in Columbia, SC. It sets the foundation for a child's education and social skills. The right preschool can enhance your child's learning experience and ensure they are ready for future academic challenges.
We evaluated eight preschools based on their ratings, number of reviews, and parent feedback. This list reflects the best options available, ensuring you have reliable choices for your child's early education.
8providers evaluated in Columbia
4.44average rating across the field
258customer reviews analyzed
Cityvetted analysis of public Google review data, updated June 13, 2026.
To evaluate the preschools in Columbia, we considered factors such as overall ratings, the volume of reviews, and qualitative feedback from parents. Each preschool was assessed on its educational approach, environment, and staff qualifications.
No one pays for placement in our rankings. We refresh our evaluations monthly to ensure you receive the most current and accurate information, helping you make informed decisions for your child's early education.
The Vetted Score: six weighted factors
Customer sentiment25%
Rating quality20%
Review volume & velocity20%
Website trust signals15%
Service breadth10%
Business longevity10%
Sentiment is measured by AI analysis of review text, recency-weighted, with verified-pattern checks to discount suspicious review bursts.
With a perfect rating of 5 from 12 reviews, St. Andrews Baptist Weekday is highly praised for its nurturing environment and dedicated staff. Parents appreciate the strong emphasis on early childhood education and community involvement. While the review count is limited, the positive feedback suggests a solid choice for families seeking a supportive preschool experience.
Pros
Nurturing environment
Dedicated staff
Strong community involvement
Cons
Limited review base
Best forFamilies seeking a supportive preschool experience
Montessori School of Columbia boasts a strong rating of 4.6 from 33 reviews, highlighting its child-centered approach and engaging curriculum. Parents commend the individualized learning plans and the focus on fostering independence. However, some parents noted the need for more outdoor play space, which could be a consideration for active children.
Pros
Child-centered approach
Engaging curriculum
Individualized learning
Cons
Limited outdoor play space
Best forChildren who thrive with individualized learning
St. Martin's Preschool has an impressive rating of 4.9 from just 7 reviews, with parents praising its warm atmosphere and experienced teachers. The school focuses on developing social skills and preparing children for kindergarten. However, the small review count makes it a promising but unproven option for families looking for consistency.
Shandon Weekday School received a perfect rating of 5 from 2 reviews, indicating a strong reputation among the few parents who have shared their experiences. Reviewers appreciate the caring staff and the engaging curriculum that promotes creativity. However, with only two reviews, it remains a promising but unproven choice for families.
Pros
Caring staff
Engaging curriculum
Promotes creativity
Cons
Very limited review base
Best forFamilies seeking a creative learning environment
Montessori Early Learning Center has a rating of 4.3 from 24 reviews, with parents praising the hands-on learning approach and friendly staff. The school emphasizes independence and exploration, making it a great fit for curious children. However, some parents have mentioned concerns about communication from staff, which could be a consideration for prospective families.
Pros
Hands-on learning
Friendly staff
Emphasizes independence
Cons
Concerns about staff communication
Best forCurious children who thrive in hands-on environments
Chesterbrook Academy Preschool of Columbia has a rating of 4.1 from 68 reviews, with parents appreciating the structured environment and variety of activities. The school provides a balanced curriculum that includes academics and play. However, some parents have expressed concerns about staff turnover, which could impact the consistency of care for children.
Pros
Structured environment
Variety of activities
Balanced curriculum
Cons
Concerns about staff turnover
Best forFamilies seeking a structured learning environment
Cadence Academy Preschool has a rating of 4.2 from 61 reviews, with parents praising its focus on socialization and development. The preschool offers a variety of programs for different age groups. However, some families have mentioned concerns about the pricing, which may be on the higher side for some budgets.
Pros
Focus on socialization
Variety of programs
Development-oriented
Cons
Higher pricing concerns
Best forParents prioritizing socialization and development
Cadence Academy Preschool has a lower rating of 3.4 from 51 reviews. Parents appreciate the engaging activities and caring staff, but many have pointed out inconsistencies in communication and organization. While it offers a range of activities, the mixed reviews suggest that families should proceed with caution and weigh their options carefully.
Pros
Engaging activities
Caring staff
Cons
Inconsistencies in communication
Mixed reviews
Best forFamilies looking for a variety of activities
Selecting a preschool involves several key factors to ensure it meets your child's needs and your family's expectations. Here are some tips to guide your decision.
Curriculum and Teaching Style
Consider the educational philosophy and curriculum offered. Some schools focus on play-based learning, while others emphasize academics.
Location and Accessibility
Choose a preschool that is convenient for drop-off and pick-up, ideally close to your home or workplace.
Staff Qualifications
Look for qualified teachers and staff who are trained in early childhood education and create a supportive environment.
Parent Reviews
Read reviews from other parents to gauge their experiences and satisfaction with the preschool.
What it costs
What preschools cost in Columbia
Preschool costs can vary significantly based on the program, location, and services offered. Understanding the typical pricing will help you budget accordingly.
Full-time Enrollment$800 to $1,500 per month, depending on the preschool and services provided.
Part-time Enrollment$400 to $800 per month for a few days a week.
Registration FeesMost preschools charge a one-time registration fee, ranging from $50 to $200.
Additional CostsConsider costs for supplies, meals, and extracurricular activities, which can add $50 to $200 per month.
Frequently asked questions
How much does preschool cost in Columbia?
Preschool costs in Columbia range from $400 to $1,500 per month, depending on the type of program and services offered.
What are the hours of operation for most preschools?
Most preschools operate from 7 AM to 6 PM, but hours can vary, so it's best to check with individual schools.
How often is this ranking updated?
We re-run the full analysis monthly with fresh review data. Last updated June 13, 2026.
Our verdict
For most Columbia families: St. Andrews Baptist Weekday
Our top picks, St. Andrews Baptist Weekday, Montessori School of Columbia, and St. Martin's Preschool, stand out for their strong ratings and positive parent feedback. Each offers unique strengths, from nurturing environments to individualized learning approaches, making them excellent choices for families in Columbia.
Cityvetted
