ST THOMAS MORE HAPPINESS PRESCHOOL
About ST THOMAS MORE HAPPINESS PRESCHOOL
ST THOMAS MORE HAPPINESS PRESCHOOL in Darien offers infant and toddler care as a licensed preschool provider. This program focuses on early education and kindergarten readiness, blending structured learning with play-based activities. Connecticut preschool programs are licensed by the OEC. The state's School Readiness program provides free or reduced-cost preschool in priority communities. ST THOMAS MORE HAPPINESS PRESCHOOL holds license #DCCC.13246, verified through CT OEC. Visit during class time, not just during a scheduled tour. Watching teachers interact with children during real activities tells you far more than a polished walkthrough
Last updated April 2026
Preschool Services
Services offered by ST THOMAS MORE HAPPINESS PRESCHOOL:
- Infant And Toddler Care
- Kindergarten readiness curriculum and early literacy
- Math, science, and social studies exploration
- Creative arts, music, and movement activities
- Social-emotional development and conflict resolution
- Indoor and outdoor play with structured learning time
- Progress assessments and parent-teacher conferences
Preschool in Darien — FAQ
What age should my child start preschool?
Most preschools in Darien and Fairfield County accept children ages 3-5. Some offer pre-K programs starting at age 2.5 if the child is potty-trained. The ideal age depends on your child's social readiness and developmental milestones — many parents find age 3 is a good starting point. Kindergarten readiness is the primary goal of preschool programs in this area.
What is the difference between preschool and daycare in Darien?
Preschools focus on structured early education with curriculum, learning goals, and kindergarten readiness. Daycare centers provide full-day care with some educational activities but prioritize supervision and routine. Many Darien programs blend both approaches. Preschools typically run shorter hours (8am-12pm or 8am-3pm) while daycare offers full-day coverage until 5:30-6pm.
Questions to Ask When You Visit
Before choosing a preschool provider, bring this list to your visit or call.
- 1What curriculum or learning framework do you follow?
- 2How do you assess each child's developmental progress?
- 3What is the teacher-to-student ratio in the classroom?
- 4How do you prepare children for kindergarten readiness?
- 5What training and credentials do your teachers have?
- 6How do you handle children with different learning styles or special needs?
- 7What does parent involvement look like at your program?
Preschool Costs in Connecticut
Average preschool cost for toddlers in CT: $800-1,300/month. Rates vary by provider, location, and hours needed.
Financial Assistance
Care 4 Kids: Connecticut's Care 4 Kids program helps eligible families pay for childcare while they work or attend school. The program covers licensed family childcare, center-based care, and before/after school programs.
Cost data: Child Care Aware of America, 2025. Subsidy info: CT Office of Early Childhood (OEC).
Other Preschools in Darien
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Credentials
License Verified
Verified via CT OEC
State Inspection Record
130 citations across 20 inspections. Most childcare citations are minor regulatory issues that providers correct promptly.
Common citation types:
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Data from the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC) public records. Updated April 2026.
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