3-Year Old Preschool
A first school experience for children beginning preschool, with emphasis on helping them separate, join a group, and build comfort in classroom routines.
Preschool and Kindergarten Readiness Programs max123
Compare September-through-May options by age, readiness, schedule needs, and school-day length.
Start with the fit, not just the age
The best preschool choice depends on where your child is developmentally and what kind of school day your family needs. Use these checkpoints before comparing program names, especially if your child is newly three or still gaining comfort separating from a parent or caregiver.
Programs at a glance
Ages 3, 4, and 5The Preschool at DUMC offers program pathways for children in the preschool and kindergarten-readiness years.
September through MayThe preschool year runs from September through May, giving families a consistent school-year rhythm.
January-start pathwaySome 3-year-olds may have a January-start option when a fall start is not the right fit.
Core preschool programs
Each core program gives parents a different starting point: age, readiness, and the amount of growth needed before kindergarten. Read the summaries below as a first pass, then speak with the preschool if your child’s fit is not obvious.
4-Year Old Kindergarten Readiness
Designed for many children in the year before kindergarten, this option supports increasing independence, confidence, and comfort with school-day expectations.
Growing Into Kindergarten
A readiness-focused pathway for children who may benefit from more time growing socially, emotionally, and academically before kindergarten.
How to narrow the best program choice
A short decision sequence can keep the process from feeling overwhelming. Move through these steps in order, and use the preschool’s guidance when your child fits more than one description.
Start with your child’s age for the school year
Identify the program tied to your child’s age during the school year; this usually creates the shortest list of realistic choices.
Consider readiness for classroom routines
Think about separation, stamina, listening in a group, and the ability to move through simple transitions with adult support.
Compare desired school-day length
A longer day may fit a child who has stamina and enjoys peer time, while a shorter day can support a gentler start.
Talk with the school if you are unsure
If your child’s age, birthday, or readiness makes the choice unclear, ask the preschool to help you think through the options.
Companion and extended-day options
Some families need more than an age-based morning or school-day placement; others are looking for enrichment or a different rhythm. Review these named options separately so you do not assume a combination that may not match current availability.
Afternoon Adventures
An afternoon option to explore if your child is ready for more school-day time beyond a core preschool schedule. Ask how it pairs with the current year’s programs before planning your week around it.
Discovery
A separate named option to consider when comparing program fit, schedule needs, and readiness. The preschool can clarify whether it is the best single-program choice or a complement to another option.
Program fit questions
Use these answers to prepare for a registration conversation and spot questions that need confirmation for the current school year.
When does the preschool year run?
The preschool year runs September through May. Ask for the current calendar when you are ready to register.
Which program is right for a 3 year old?
Start with 3-Year Old Preschool. If your child is three but still building separation confidence or classroom stamina, ask whether the January-start pathway is a better fit.
What is the January-start option?
It is an option for some 3-year-olds who are not ready to begin in September. The school can confirm eligibility, timing, and availability for the current year.
Which program supports 4-year-old Kindergarten readiness?
Review 4-Year Old Kindergarten Readiness first for a child in the 4-year-old year who is preparing for kindergarten routines.
What is Growing Into Kindergarten for?
Growing Into Kindergarten is intended for children who may benefit from an additional readiness-focused step before kindergarten. Ask the preschool whether your child’s age and development match the program.
Does my child need to be toilet-trained?
Toilet-training requirements can vary by program and policy. Confirm the current expectations with the preschool before registering.
Ready to talk through options?
If you know your child’s age but are unsure about readiness, schedule length, or January timing, a direct conversation can help you choose the next step.