Early Childhood at Salem Lutheran School

A safe, faith-filled start for your child. Play-based learning, small classes, and teachers who know your child by name.

Preschool and Kindergarten students learning in calss at Salem Lutheran School in Greenfield, MN

Where Learning Begins with Love

The early years matter more than any other. That is why Salem Lutheran School offers private preschool and kindergarten programs built on purpose—not just play. We give young children in Greenfield, MN a strong start in faith, academics, and social skills.

 

Our early childhood classrooms are warm, safe, and structured. Teachers are experienced and caring. Class sizes are small so every child gets the attention they deserve. Your child will be known here—not just supervised.

 

Families across Greenfield, Rockford, Hanover, Corcoran, and Maple Plain choose Salem because they want more than daycare. They want a real educational foundation for their child.

Our Early Childhood Programs

Salem serves children as young as 33 months through kindergarten.
Both programs are grounded in faith and designed to prepare your child for what comes next.

Preschool

Ages 33 months and up

Our preschool program is play-based and developmentally appropriate. Children build early literacy, number sense, social skills, and confidence in a Christ-centered classroom. Choose from 3-day or 5-day options, half-day or full-day.

 

Children must be 33 months old by the month of enrollment and be toilet trained.

Kindergarten

Must turn 5 by September 1

Full-day kindergarten at Salem is where learning takes off. Students develop strong foundations in reading, writing, math, and faith. The day runs from 7:45 AM to 2:15 PM and includes Bible study, specials, and hands-on learning.

 

Children must turn five by September 1 and complete a physical exam before enrollment.

Preschool Programs

As low as $3,150/year

For half day programs

Kindergarten Programs

As Low As $5,400/year

Includes multi-child and membership discounts.

What Your Child Will Learn at Salem Lutheran Private Preschool & Kindergarten

Our early childhood curriculum covers the whole child. Every area of growth gets attention—not just academics.

 
 

Faith foundation.

Daily devotions, Bible stories, songs, and prayer introduce young hearts to Jesus. Faith is woven throughout the day.

Pre-literacy and language.

Letter recognition, phonics, vocabulary, handwriting, and early reading and writing skills.

Early math.

Numbers, counting, shapes, patterns, sorting, measurement, and problem-solving through play.

Social-emotional growth.

Sharing, taking turns, expressing feelings, and building friendships in a supportive community.

Physical development.

Gross and fine motor skills through playground play, PE, art, music, and structured activities.

Creative expression.

Art, music, dramatic play, and hands-on activities that build imagination and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Salem's Early Childhood programs

Common questions from parents exploring private preschool and kindergarten options in Greenfield and the surrounding area.

What age does my child need to be to start at Salem?

Children can start preschool at 33 months (2 years, 9 months) and must be toilet trained. For kindergarten, children must turn five by September 1 of the enrollment year.

We encourage all incoming preschoolers to complete an Early Childhood Screening before enrolling.

What is the difference between your preschool and a daycare?

Salem's preschool is an educational program—not just childcare. We follow a structured, play-based curriculum designed to build kindergarten readiness in literacy, math, social skills, and faith.

Your child will have a dedicated teacher, a daily schedule with learning goals, and regular communication about their progress. This is intentional early childhood education, not supervision.

Is private preschool worth the cost compared to public options?

Private preschool at Salem offers smaller class sizes, more individual attention, and a faith-based curriculum that public programs do not provide. Your child builds a strong academic and social foundation in a safe, nurturing environment.

Many families find the investment pays off quickly. Children who attend Salem's preschool transition smoothly into kindergarten with confidence, strong habits, and readiness to learn.

What does a typical day look like in preschool or kindergarten?

Preschool days include circle time with devotions, learning centers, hands-on activities, snack, outdoor play, story time, art, and music. Full-day students also have rest time.

Kindergarten runs from 7:45 AM to 2:15 PM and includes morning devotion, Bible study, language arts, math, specials (music, PE, art), lunch, recess, science or social studies, and read-aloud time.

How do you prepare children for kindergarten?

Our preschool curriculum is designed with kindergarten readiness in mind. Children build pre-reading skills, number sense, fine motor skills, and the social habits they need to succeed in a classroom setting.

Because Salem's preschool and kindergarten are on the same campus, the transition is smooth. Children already know the building, the routines, and many of the faces around them.

How small are class sizes in early childhood?

Salem keeps early childhood classes intentionally small. This means your child gets personal attention every day. Teachers notice when a child needs help, encouragement, or a new challenge—and they respond right away.

Small class sizes are one of the biggest reasons Greenfield families choose a private preschool over larger public programs.

Is your preschool play-based or academic?

Both. Salem's preschool is play-based and academically purposeful. Young children learn best through hands-on exploration, creative play, and guided activities. We use that natural curiosity to build real skills in literacy, math, and social development.

Play is the vehicle. Learning is the destination.

What if my child has separation anxiety?

This is completely normal—and our teachers are experienced at helping children through it. We use consistent routines, gentle transitions, and warm reassurance to help your child feel safe and settled.

If you know your child may struggle at drop-off, let us know. We will work with you on a plan before the first day.

How is faith part of early childhood at Salem?

Faith is woven into every part of the day—not taught as a separate subject. Children hear Bible stories, sing hymns, pray together, and learn about Jesus and His love in age-appropriate ways.

This is what makes a private Christian preschool different. Your child's spiritual growth matters as much as their academic growth.

Is there before- or after-school care available?

Yes. Salem offers extended care through our SailorCare program. This gives working families the flexibility they need while keeping their child in a safe, familiar environment.

Contact our office for current SailorCare hours and availability.

How do I enroll my child?

Applications for new students are accepted through FACTS beginning February 1 for the following school year. There is a $300 enrollment fee due at the time of enrollment, which is nonrefundable after June 1.

We recommend scheduling a tour first so you and your child can see the campus and meet our teachers or call us at (763) 498-7283

Does Salem offer financial aid for preschool or kindergarten?

Yes. Salem Lutheran School has a need-based financial aid program. We believe private early childhood education should be within reach for families who want it. Contact our office to learn more about current options.

Ready to See the Salem Difference?

Schedule a tour and discover why families choose Salem Lutheran School for their children’s education.