Pembroke Pines preschools - Teacher helping children at daycare center

Pembroke Pines Preschools & Daycare Guide

49 Licensed Programs | 44+ VPK Providers | 20+ Gold Seal Accredited Centers

Finding the right preschool in Pembroke Pines is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your child’s early education. With 49 licensed programs across the city, Pembroke Pines preschools offer everything from traditional play-based learning to Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and STEM-focused curricula. Whether you’re looking for a VPK provider, Gold Seal accredited center, or a faith-based program, our comprehensive guide helps you compare Pembroke Pines preschools and find the perfect fit for your family.

Pembroke Pines
Preschool Snapshot

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Licensed Programs

Preschools and daycare centers serving Pembroke Pines families with quality early education

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VPK Providers

Free Pre-K programs for 4-year-olds funded by Florida’s Voluntary Prekindergarten program

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Gold Seal Accredited

Programs meeting Florida’s highest quality standards for early childhood education

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Infant Care Centers

Licensed facilities accepting infants from 6 weeks to 12 months old

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Premier City-Run Charter School System

The City of Pembroke Pines operates five charter school campuses and two school systems with a single application process. Pembroke Pines Charter Elementary is #4 Best Charter Elementary in Florida.

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Fastest-Growing City in Broward

With over 170,000 residents, Pembroke Pines is one of Broward’s fastest-growing cities, attracting families with safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and modern amenities.

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Embassy Creek & Top-Rated Schools

Home to Embassy Creek Elementary (10/10 GreatSchools) and multiple A+ Niche-rated schools. Strong focus on academics, character education, and small class sizes.

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Memorial Healthcare System Hub

Memorial Hospital Pembroke and Memorial Hospital West provide major employment. Memorial was named ‘Family Friendliest’ employer three years running (2021-2023).

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57 School Options for Families

Parents can choose from public, charter, and private schools with strong STEM programs, Spanish classes, and family events. Top performers reach 83% math and reading proficiency.

Types of Pembroke Pines Preschool Programs

Explore the different early education philosophies available at Pembroke Pines preschools to find the approach that best fits your child’s learning style.

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Traditional Preschools

Play-based curriculum with structured daily schedules. Age-appropriate activities focused on socialization, school readiness, and foundational skills.

  • Half-day or full-day options
  • Learning centers & outdoor play
  • $950-$1,250/month average
Find Traditional Programs
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Montessori Schools

Child-led learning with hands-on Montessori materials. Mixed-age classrooms foster independence, practical life skills, and deep concentration.

  • Self-directed learning
  • Low ratios (1:8 or 1:10)
  • Ages 3-6 in same classroom
Find Montessori Schools
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Faith-Based Programs

Religious education integrated into daily curriculum. Often affiliated with local churches or synagogues, offering community-focused environments.

  • Values-based education
  • Strong community ties
  • Typically more affordable
Find Faith-Based Programs
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Reggio Emilia-Inspired

Project-based learning centered on children’s natural curiosity. Features art studios, documentation panels, and strong emphasis on creativity.

  • Child-led exploration
  • Art & nature integration
  • Visual learning documentation
Find Reggio Programs
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Specialty & STEM Programs

Focused curriculum in science, technology, engineering, and math. Some specialize in language immersion or nature-based outdoor learning.

  • Early coding & robotics
  • Bilingual immersion options
  • Nature & outdoor focus
Find STEM Programs
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Home-Based Daycare

Small-group care in licensed family childcare homes. Offers intimate, nurturing environments with flexible hours and personalized attention.

  • Small groups (4-10 kids)
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Lower cost option
Find Home Daycare

Pembroke Pines Preschool Costs

Children playing on playground slide at Pembroke Pines preschool

Understanding Pembroke Pines preschool costs is essential for family budgeting. Full-time programs typically range from $800 to $1,500 per month, while half-day options offer more affordable alternatives. Many Pembroke Pines preschools accept VPK funding, which covers 540 free instructional hours for 4-year-olds, significantly reducing annual costs.

Save money on childcare by exploring Florida’s School Readiness program, employer-sponsored dependent care FSAs, and sibling discounts offered by many Pembroke Pines preschools. Gold Seal accredited centers may qualify for higher subsidy reimbursements, making quality early education more accessible for working families.

Explore Local Areas

Best Neighborhoods for Pembroke Pines Preschools

Discover the top neighborhoods in Pembroke Pines with excellent preschool options, family-friendly amenities, and vibrant communities.

Silver Lakes Pembroke Pines preschool children
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Silver Lakes

Encantada/Estancia Pembroke Pines preschool children
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Encantada/Estancia

Pembroke Falls Pembroke Pines preschool children
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Pembroke Falls

Grand Palms/Cobblestone Pembroke Pines preschool children
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Grand Palms/Cobblestone

Towngate Pembroke Pines preschool children
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Towngate

Chapel Trail Pembroke Pines preschool children
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Chapel Trail

Children learning alphabet at Pembroke Pines VPK program

Florida VPK Program in Pembroke Pines

Florida’s Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program provides FREE early education for all 4-year-olds. With 44+ VPK providers in Pembroke Pines, families can choose from school-year programs (3 hours daily, 540 hours total) or summer programs (6 hours daily for 300 hours). VPK prepares children for kindergarten through literacy, math, and social-emotional development.

To enroll in VPK, your child must turn 4 by September 1st. Register through the Early Learning Coalition of Broward County to receive your VPK certificate, then present it to your chosen Pembroke Pines preschool. Registration typically opens in late April for the following school year.

The best Pembroke Pines VPK providers offer wrap-around care for working parents, extending hours before and after the free VPK session. Many Gold Seal accredited centers participate in VPK, ensuring your child receives high-quality instruction that exceeds minimum state standards.

School Readiness Program in Pembroke Pines

Financial assistance for working families to afford quality childcare at Pembroke Pines preschools.

Who Qualifies for School Readiness?

School Readiness subsidies help low-income working families, families in job training, and at-risk children access quality childcare.

  • Working families earning up to 150% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Parents enrolled in education or job training programs
  • Families receiving Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA)
  • Children in protective services or at-risk situations
  • Teen parents completing high school

Apply for School Readiness

Subsidies can cover up to 90% of childcare costs at participating Pembroke Pines preschools. Gold Seal accredited centers receive higher reimbursement rates.

Apply at ELC Broward

Major Pembroke Pines Employers with Childcare Benefits

Many Pembroke Pines employers offer childcare assistance, dependent care FSAs, and flexible scheduling to help working parents.

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Memorial Healthcare System

Named ‘Family Friendliest’ 2021-2023, on-site chil…

Named ‘Family Friendliest’ 2021-2023, on-site childcare, Health Care FSA, 403b, Great Place to Work certified

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Broward County Public Schools

Comprehensive benefits, summers aligned with schoo…

Comprehensive benefits, summers aligned with school schedule, tuition reimbursement

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City of Pembroke Pines

Municipal benefits including health coverage, reti…

Municipal benefits including health coverage, retirement plans, and preventive services

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Nova Southeastern University (Satellite)

Access to NSU employee benefits including childcar…

Access to NSU employee benefits including childcare and tuition assistance

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Pines Boulevard Retail/Hospitality

Flexible scheduling, multiple employers along majo…

Flexible scheduling, multiple employers along major commercial corridor

Top-Rated Pembroke Pines Preschools

Highly recommended early learning centers based on accreditation, parent reviews, and program quality.

1

Primrose School of Pembroke Pines

Gold SealVPK Provider

Nationally accredited with balanced curriculum combining academics, character development, and arts.

2

The Goddard School

Gold SealVPK Provider

Play-based learning with FLEX curriculum, enrichment programs, and flexible scheduling options.

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KinderCare Learning Center

AccreditedVPK Provider

Comprehensive early education with research-based curriculum and experienced teachers.

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Bright Horizons

Gold SealCorporate

Premium childcare with innovative learning programs and family-focused support services.

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La Petite Academy

VPK ProviderFull-Day

Quality early education with focus on kindergarten readiness and social development.

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Children’s Learning Center

Faith-BasedVPK Provider

Values-based curriculum with strong community involvement and affordable tuition rates.

How to Choose a Pembroke Pines Preschool

Follow these six steps to find the best early learning program for your child and family.

1

Define Your Priorities

Consider location, schedule, teaching philosophy, and budget. What matters most—academics, play-based learning, or religious education?

2

Research Your Options

Use our Pembroke Pines preschool directory to filter by VPK, Gold Seal accreditation, location, and program type.

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Schedule Tours

Visit your top 3-5 choices during operating hours. Observe classrooms, meet teachers, and ask about curriculum and daily routines.

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Ask Important Questions

Inquire about teacher qualifications, ratios, discipline policies, communication methods, and health/safety protocols.

5

Check References

Read online reviews, ask for parent references, and verify licensing status through Florida DCF’s online database.

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Trust Your Instincts

Choose a preschool where you feel welcomed, teachers are engaged, and children appear happy and learning.

8 Questions to Ask Pembroke Pines Preschools

Bring this checklist when touring preschools to ensure you gather all the information you need.

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What are the teacher qualifications and turnover rate?

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What is the teacher-to-child ratio in each classroom?

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What curriculum do you use and how is it structured?

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How do you communicate with parents throughout the day?

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What meals and snacks are provided, and how do you handle allergies?

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What are your safety and security procedures?

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How do you handle discipline and social-emotional development?

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What is the total cost including fees, and what payment options are available?

Pembroke Pines Preschool Enrollment Timeline

Follow this timeline to secure your spot at the best Pembroke Pines preschools. Starting early gives you the most options!

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January – February

Research & Tour

Start researching programs, schedule tours, and create your shortlist of top choices.

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March – April

Apply & Register

Submit applications, pay registration fees, and complete enrollment paperwork.

May – July

Prepare & Plan

Complete health forms, attend orientation, and prepare your child for the transition.

August

First Day!

Your child begins their preschool journey! Most Pembroke Pines schools start mid-August.

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VPK Registration Opens in Late April!

Florida’s FREE VPK program requires separate registration through the Early Learning Coalition. Don’t miss the deadline—spots at popular Pembroke Pines preschools fill quickly!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pembroke Pines Preschools

Answers to common questions from Pembroke Pines parents about preschool enrollment.

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When should I start looking for a Pembroke Pines preschool?

Start your search 6-12 months before you need care. Popular Pembroke Pines preschools fill up quickly, especially those with VPK programs. For fall enrollment, begin touring in January or February.

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How much does preschool cost in Pembroke Pines?

Full-time preschool typically ranges from $800 to $1,500 per month depending on the program type and location. VPK is FREE for 4-year-olds, and School Readiness subsidies can significantly reduce costs for qualifying families.

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What is VPK and how do I sign up?

VPK (Voluntary Prekindergarten) is Florida’s FREE pre-K program for 4-year-olds. Register through your local Early Learning Coalition starting in late April. You’ll receive a certificate to take to your chosen VPK provider.

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What age can my child start preschool?

Most Pembroke Pines preschools accept children starting at age 2 or 3, though many childcare centers offer infant care from 6 weeks. VPK is specifically for children who turn 4 by September 1st of the school year.

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What does “Gold Seal” accreditation mean?

Gold Seal is Florida’s highest quality designation for childcare programs. These schools meet national accreditation standards, have better-trained staff, and receive higher School Readiness reimbursement rates.

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What hours do most Pembroke Pines preschools operate?

Full-day programs typically run 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Half-day programs are usually 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM. VPK school-year programs offer 3 hours daily, while summer VPK provides 6 hours daily for 6 weeks.

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Does my child need to be potty trained?

Requirements vary by program. Many 2-year-old classes don’t require potty training, but most 3-year-old programs do. Always ask during your tour—some Pembroke Pines preschools are flexible and will work with children still in training.

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Is financial assistance available for Pembroke Pines preschools?

Yes! School Readiness subsidies help qualifying families afford childcare. VPK is free for all 4-year-olds. Many employers offer dependent care FSAs, and some preschools offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees.

Still have questions? Browse our directory to contact Pembroke Pines preschools directly.

Find Preschools Near You
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