Preschool
Curiosity Grows Here
Minnehaha Academy’s preschool is designed to help children grow in confidence, curiosity, and readiness for what comes next. Through purposeful play, hands-on learning, and intentional teaching, students build a strong foundation for kindergarten—academically, socially, and spiritually. Just as importantly, they begin to see themselves as confident, capable learners.
Minnehaha Academy is a private Christian preschool in Minneapolis that combines purposeful play, strong early academics, and faith-based learning within a PreK–12 school.
Wondering if this is the right place for your child to begin?
Visit our preschool classrooms, meet our teachers, and see how children are known, loved, and encouraged to grow each day.
Why Minnehaha Preschool
Choosing a preschool is an important decision—one that helps shape how your child experiences learning, confidence, and belonging.
At Minnehaha Academy, preschool is more than preparation—it’s where children begin to grow in confidence, independence, and a love of learning.
Our students are:
- Known and cared for by experienced teachers
- Encouraged to explore, ask questions, and try new things
- Supported as they build friendships and social confidence
- Gently guided toward independence and responsibility
This is where children begin to see themselves as learners—and where families begin a long-term educational journey, with a clear path through graduation.
For many families, choosing a preschool is part of a larger decision about where there child will grow over time. Don't miss our guide that provides guidance on choosing a private school in Minneapolis.
What Makes Minnehaha's Preschool Different
Families looking for a preschool in Minneapolis often seek a balance of academic readiness, nurturing care, and a strong sense of community. At Minnehaha Academy, students experience all three in a setting designed to support long-term growth.
- A PreK–12 experience with a clear path through graduation
Families can confidently begin a long-term educational journey, knowing their child is part of a school that will support them every step of the way. - Play-based learning with a strong academic foundation
Children learn through exploration and hands-on experiences while building early skills in literacy, math, and critical thinking. - A distinctive SMART program grounded in brain research
Daily movement-based activities strengthen the foundational systems that support focus, coordination, and learning readiness. - Faith integrated into everyday learning
Through Bible stories, prayer, worship, and Chapel, children begin to understand who they are and how they are loved.
Meet Our Preschool Teachers
Our preschool teachers are caring, experienced educators who know each child and help them grow with confidence.
"Teachers exemplify passion with a purpose in their interactions with our children, each other and the overall community. I truly believe that their goal is to make each child the best version of themselves."
Parents of Lower and Middle School children
Learning Through Play & Academic Readiness
Play is how young children learn best. At Minnehaha Academy, play is purposeful—designed to build imagination, confidence, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Our preschool program emphasizes both social development and kindergarten readiness, giving students a strong foundation for future learning.
Through hands-on learning centers, children build early skills in:
- Literacy and language
- Foundational math
- Science and discovery
- Art, music, and imaginative play
Teachers intentionally observe each child’s progress and provide experiences that support continued growth. Students are encouraged to become independent, confident, and curious learners.
Children leave Minnehaha Preschool growing socially, emotionally, physically, intellectually, and spiritually—well prepared for kindergarten and excited to keep learning.
Minnehaha Academy has the most amazing teachers and a warm, loving environment, and my children are challenged academically every day."
Parent of two Lower School children
See your child here.
The best way to understand our preschool experience is to step into the classroom—see how children learn through play, build confidence, and feel known and cared for.
Brain Development Through SMART
Minnehaha Academy’s SMART program (Stimulating Maturity through Accelerated Readiness Training) is a distinctive part of our preschool experience—bringing current brain research into daily learning.
Through purposeful movement and structured activities, students strengthen the foundational systems that support learning, including visual, motor, auditory, and sensory development.
Each day, children engage their bodies and minds in ways that build focus, coordination, and readiness—helping them learn more effectively not only in preschool, but as they continue their academic journey.
A Day in Preschool
Each day is thoughtfully designed to balance structure and exploration.
Children experience:
- Hands-on learning centers
- Creative play and imagination
- Outdoor exploration and movement
- Quiet moments for rest and reflection
- Opportunities to work independently and with others
This rhythm helps children feel secure while giving them space to grow.
Preschool Programs at Minnehaha
Faith Formation
Faith is a natural and meaningful part of each day.
Students learn Bible stories, sing worship songs, pray together, and attend weekly Chapel designed specifically for preschoolers.
These moments help children begin to understand who they are and that they are loved by God.
Readiness & Growth
Prepared for kindergarten—and beyond.
Teachers use observation and assessment to support each child’s growth and provide personalized learning experiences.
Students develop:
- Social and emotional confidence
- Early literacy and language
- Foundational math skills
- Physical coordination
- Curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking
- A growing understanding of faith
Children leave Minnehaha Preschool not only ready for kindergarten—but confident, capable, and excited to learn.
Family Partnership
Parents are valued partners in their child’s learning at Minnehaha Academy.
Throughout the year, families are invited to be part of the school community through concerts, art shows, and special events. Preschool families also participate in school-wide traditions like Homecoming and a service day.
Teachers maintain consistent and open communication through daily connection, weekly updates, and scheduled conferences—ensuring families feel informed, supported, and connected.
Preschool FAQs: What Parents Want to Know
- What curriculum or frameworks do you use in preschool?
- How do you balance play-based learning with academic readiness?
- How do teachers support each child’s growth?
- What is the SMART program in preschool?
- How is faith incorporated into the preschool experience?
- What are your class sizes, teacher qualifications, and enrollment requirements?
What curriculum or frameworks do you use in preschool?
How do you balance play-based learning with academic readiness?
How do teachers support each child’s growth?
What is the SMART program in preschool?
How is faith incorporated into the preschool experience?
What are your class sizes, teacher qualifications, and enrollment requirements?
The Minnehaha Difference
Preschool at Minnehaha is the beginning of a wonderful journey of exploration and discovery.
As a PreK–12 school, we take a long-term view of each child’s growth. The confidence, curiosity, and character developed in preschool continue to grow through every stage of a student’s experience—culminating in a graduate who is deeply grounded in who they are, filled with purpose, and ready for what's next.
Begin your child's journey at Minnehaha.
Our admission team will walk with you as you explore the right start for your child's learning and growth.