While terms may vary, the core mission of transitional kindergarten and pre-k is the same: preparing children for kindergarten.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Preschool serves younger children (typically ages 2–4) and focuses on foundational learning through play.
• Transitional kindergarten and pre-k / kindergarten prep are more structured programs tailored to children who are nearing kindergarten age.
• Public transitional kindergarten programs may follow modified kindergarten standards and are typically state funded.
• Bright Horizons’ kindergarten prep follows a research-based, age-appropriate curriculum that mirrors the developmental goals of transitional kindergarten — with added flexibility and individualized attention.

Yes, Bright Horizons’ early childhood programs serve children with special needs.  Bright Horizons believes in inclusive programs that meet the needs of a wide range of children and focus on each child's strengths. Teachers also receive additional training. Bright Horizons supports a team approach; the teacher, director, specialists, and parents work closely together to identify and meet every child’s needs through an individualized plan.

Bright Horizons was founded more than 30 years ago and partners with more than 1000 employers across the U.S., as well as in Europe, Canada and India. Their client list includes half of those named to FORTUNE magazine’s “100 Best Companies” and more than three-fourths of the companies on Working Mother magazine’s “100 Best” list. Bright Horizons operates centers in communities, as well as onsite at major employers.

As guardians of your children, there is nothing more important to us than their safety and protection while they are in our care. Bright Horizons has a series of security protocols and procedures to help guard against any threat to the safety of children and staff, and we perform safety drills on a regular basis. We do everything we can to make our centers safe and secure and to ensure that our teachers and staff are well-trained to protect children in the case of emergency. 

Bright Horizons works to recruit and hire the highest quality teachers.  Bright Horizons’ staff is nurturers as well as educators who encourage learning through exploration and partnership with parents. They’re trained to deliver the highest standard of care.  All candidates undergo a thorough screening, including a Bright Horizons enhanced background check and state-required background checks. All teachers must meet state educational licensing and additional center requirements.

Bright Horizons’ successful core curriculum The World at Their Fingertips will be used at the center. To learn more about the Bright Horizons curriculum please visit www.brighthorizons.com/curriculum.

Bright Horizons’ goal is to ensure that all health and safety practices are in line with recommendations provided by the CDC and requirements of state and local municipalities, and have the well-being of children, families, and staff at their core. Bright Horizons partnered with pediatric infectious disease specialist Dr. Kristin Moffitt of Boston Children’s Hospital to implement enhanced safety protocols including reduced class sizes, restrictions as to who comes in and out of the center, daily health screening and temperature check upon arrival for adults and children, masks for teachers, staff, and all other adults in the center, as well as strict guidelines on distancing, cleaning, and disinfecting. The team is committed to these protocols every day. And Bright Horizons continues to consult with experts and monitor updated guidance to ensure protocols evolve with new learning around COVID-19, so that children, families, and teachers are protected. For additional information outlining Bright Horizons protocols and safety measures, please visit brighthorizons.com/health-safety.

Bright Horizons offers many resources to support families’ efforts to nurture children’s development, be actively involved in their education, and balance work/life demands. Bright Horizons Family Resources can be found at www.brighthorizons.com/resources.

• Start by selecting the Find a Center link on this page.
• Under the center you’re interested in, click the Tuition & Openings button.
• Then, select Schedule Your Visit and fill out the form.

This depends on your child’s age, temperament, and level of maturity. General tips for preparing for the first day of child care include:  

Please submit an inquiry to your center(s) of interest with a request for tuition information. We recommend scheduling a visit at the same time (this can be done on the same form).

Safety is our top priority, and it’s part of our everyday routine. All of our centers follow expert-informed health, safety, and security policies and allergy protocols. Additionally, health, safety, and wellness are built right into our curriculum, and our classrooms and spaces are safely designed for learning and exploration.