Preschool
Where Kindergarten Readiness Begins
Merritt Academy's preschool program in Fairfax, Virginia provides children ages three and four with a strong academic foundation through hands-on learning, play-based exploration, and character development. Recognized as a 2026 Best Preschool by Northern Virginia Magazine, our experienced teachers nurture curiosity while preparing children for kindergarten through engaging instruction in literacy, math, science, social studies, STEAM, Spanish, music, and the creative arts. Every day, students build the confidence, independence, and critical thinking skills needed for a successful transition to kindergarten and beyond.
Hear from a Merritt Preschool Parent
"It's a long journey raising a child, and having a partner like Merritt to help me through that definitely makes me feel confident in the programs they have."
Programs
K3 Program (Ages 3-4)
Our K3 preschool program provides three-year-olds with a nurturing environment where curiosity, creativity, and confidence flourish. Through a balanced blend of purposeful play, hands-on exploration, and guided learning, children develop a strong foundation for future academic success. As they become more independent, students are encouraged to ask questions, solve problems, and discover new interests in a supportive and engaging classroom.
Through age-appropriate lessons, our experienced teachers build early literacy, language, and math skills while introducing science, STEAM, music, creative arts, and social studies. Students strengthen critical thinking, communication, and social-emotional skills as they learn to collaborate, share ideas, and build meaningful friendships. Every experience is designed to foster independence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.
Each day in our K3 preschool program is thoughtfully planned to prepare children for Pre-K and kindergarten readiness. With engaging learning experiences, individualized support, and opportunities to explore the world around them, our students develop the academic, social, and emotional skills needed for continued success.
K4 Program (Ages 4-5)
Our K4 preschool program is designed to prepare children for a successful transition to kindergarten by fostering confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. Through engaging, hands-on experiences and a thoughtfully balanced curriculum, students strengthen their foundations in early literacy, reading readiness, mathematics, science, social studies, STEAM, and creative arts while continuing to develop curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills.
As emerging leaders in our preschool community, K4 students are encouraged to take on greater responsibility, collaborate with classmates, and express their ideas with confidence. Our experienced teachers guide children through meaningful learning experiences that build problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and social-emotional development while encouraging character, responsibility, and respect for others.
With a strong focus on kindergarten readiness and character development, our K4 program equips children with the academic, social, and emotional skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. Every day brings new opportunities to explore, discover, and grow as confident, capable, and lifelong learners.
