Academics and Curriculum

Strong Academics and Kindergarten Preparation

At Bethany Bear’s, play-based learning and strong academics go hand in hand. We build phonics, literacy, early math, and STEM skills through hands-on play, so children leave ready for kindergarten. Every day, children visit our dedicated art room and join circle time with number sense, phonics, and music, and every week brings a new theme and a science experiment. Each class has 8-11 children and a curriculum tailored to their age, development, and needs. When children are engaged and having fun, they learn best.

Thematic Instruction

Every week at Bethany Bear’s is a new adventure. One big idea - whether it’s space, farm animals, dinosaurs or the changing seasons - becomes the thread that ties our stories, songs, and activities together. We believe themes are one of the best ways to teach young children, because when a child is curious about something, they remember it. A full week spent exploring one idea gives children time to ask questions, explore, and build real understanding.

Emotional Intelligence

Children who can recognize and manage their emotions solve problems better, build stronger relationships, and are better prepared to learn. Skills like empathy, self-awareness, and self-regulation build perseverance and resilience, and developing them early is a strong predictor of future academic success and well-being.

Experienced Educators

Our teachers are experienced, well educated, and passionate about teaching, and many have been with Bethany Bear’s for years. They’re also a true team. They plan together, share ideas, and get to know every child in the school, not just in their own class, so your child is known and cheered on by the whole staff. At Bethany Bear’s, we’re more than a preschool. We’re a community and a family. Meet our teachers.

Choose the Class That Suits Your Child

We’re a preschool, not a daycare, and you’ll feel the difference. Our 4-hour days are full of learning, play, and friendship, with class schedules for ages 2 1/2 through Pre-K. Every class is designed to fit where your child is right now, so children of every age and ability can grow, explore, and shine. Find your child’s class, age group, and availability.

Have Questions?

Read our FAQs or feel free to reach out

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"Our three children thrived at Bethany Bear's and were more than ready for Kindergarten when the time came. The teachers and community are incredible."

- Mark F., Wallingford

"We absolutely love Bethany Bears! The teachers are amazing and create such a warm, nurturing environment. Our daughter comes home excited to tell us about the art and science activities she’s done, and it’s wonderful to see how much she enjoys learning. We’re so grateful she’s part of such a caring community and would highly recommend it to other families!"

- Rechelle L., Phinney Ridge

"Bethany Bears is such a special school! The teachers are incredible, the art is awesome, and the entire environment feels safe, warm, and welcoming. I cannot say enough good things about this school and the people who make it so special. We are so grateful for our years there!"

- Kate P., Wedgwood

"Bethany Bears Preschool has been a wonderful place for our 3 kids. The teachers are caring, loving, and gentle. It has been a safe place for our kids to figure out what it looks like to interact with other kids in a school setting, while also preparing them to go to Kindergarten in the future. The teachers are truly wonderful. Can't say enough good things about this staff and this place!"

- Kevin P., Bryant

"Bethany Bears Preschool is a place where your child and entire family will feel known and loved. Both my children attended Bethany Bears and when they graduated, it felt as if we were leaving family. There is care and unity amongst the teaching staff and it overflows into the love they have for their students. My children loved the art room and the daily opportunity for creativity. We deeply miss attending Bethany Bears traditions such as pajama night, teddy bear picnic, Christmas concert and pumpkin patch field trip. Bethany Bears is truly a hidden gem in the city."

-Whitney K., University District

"My daughter loves going to school and learning at Bethany Bear's thanks to the remarkable, dedicated, loving and talented teachers she has had there. That is a gift for which my wife and I will always be grateful."

- Tom C., Wallingford

"Bethany Bear's Preschool is one of Seattle's best-kept secrets. My son absolutely thrived there, developed a love of learning, and was more than prepared for Kindergarten."