We are a boutique, all day preschool and childcare center for families in and around Ballard.
Our play based, emergent curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, character building, creating inclusive, diverse, loving and caring learning environments that instill a sense of security and trust in children.
Families can join our wait-pool at no cost. We offer tours when we have an open spot or at-least 8-12 weeks before your intended start date—we'll reach out to schedule your visit when the time comes! Feel free to contact us with any questions.
Welcome to Inicio Playschool
Philosophy
“Children learn as they play. Most importantly, in play children learn how to learn.”
~ O. Fred Donaldson, Ph.D., play researcher.
At Inicio Playschool, where "Inicio" in Latin symbolizes new beginnings, we believe in the potential of every child as a competent learner, capable of constructing their own knowledge through meaningful experiences. Our philosophy celebrates play-based emergent learning as the cornerstone of early childhood education. We strive for a balanced approach that embraces both child-led and teacher-led activities, fostering individual development in a warm, safe, and nurturing environment.
Our Program
We are a local parent/director operated, full day (Monday - Friday) program. We have two drop-off/pick-up schedules: 8 AM to 5 PM and 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.We serve our community’s childcare and preschool needs for children ages 12 months to 5.5 years.
In each classroom, children have the opportunity to participate in imaginary play, sensory exploration, building & architecture, letter & number mastery, early reading & writing skills, creative expressions through art & crafts, scientific experiments and fine & gross motor skill development activities. Combined, these ensure children are academically, emotionally and cognitively ready to transition to the next stage. Outdoor play is an integral part of our program with at least two hours of outside time, rain or shine.
Tuition is paid in twelve equal payments due at the beginning of each month. Healthy kid friendly meals prepared onsite by our chef are included in the tuition.
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Our One’s classroom serves children from approximately 12 to 24 months.
Our focus is on building secure relationships, independence, communication, and early social-emotional skills through play and exploration.
Monthly Tuition: $3,120
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Our Jr. Preschool classroom serves children from approximately 20 to 36 months.
Our focus is on developing communication, self-regulation, social skills, and independence while building comfort with routines, transitions, and group experiences, getting children ready to transition to preschool.
Monthly Tuition: $2,820
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Our preschool program serves children approximately 2.5 to 5 years old, with two cohorts: Caterpillars (approximately 2.5–3.5 years) and Butterflies (approximately 3.5+ years), our Pre-K cohort.
Our focus is on age appropriate activities, including for children who will graduate to kindergarten the following year.
Monthly Tuition: $2,520
Ready to take the next step?
Join our wait-pool by filling out the form below
If a spot is available, we will contact you to schedule a tour and meet the Director
Accept an open position or defer
If you accept; we require a $250.00 non-refundable enrollment fee & the first month’s tuition (“Security Deposit”) to reserve a spot. The Security Deposit will be applied to the first month’s tuition. Families understand that if they accept a space at the school and withdraw before their start date, the Security Deposit and Enrollment Fee will not be refunded.