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Privately operated, for-profit or nonprofit preschool programs based in community settings that have no specialized curriculum and are accessible to all children in the community. Activities generally include shape, color and number recognition; outdoor play; observation of nature and pets; fine and gross motor activities; pre-reading and pre-writing skills development; and opportunities for socialization. Community based preschools may offer half-day sessions (or less) that may be available to different groups of children on specific days of the week.

Preschools that are staffed by individuals who have expertise in designing and operating programs that blend the needs of children of all abilities, including children with disabilities. These programs offer specialized educational experiences and activities for children with disabilities who are integrated into their program as well as those that are appropriate for other children.

Private schools for preschool age children whose curriculums follow the system of training young children developed by Maria Montessori which emphasizes free physical activity, informal and individualized instruction, early development of writing and reading skills and extended sensory motor training.

Private schools for preschool age children that are established, controlled and financially supported by religious institutions.

Programs that provide educational experiences and activities for children who are younger than compulsory school age, supplement parental care and home play and stimulate intellectual, social, emotional and motor skills development. Activities generally include preacademic skill development such as shape, color and number recognition; active outdoor play; observation of nature and pets; dancing and rhythms; block building; playhouse activities; games; simple excursions outside the school; stories and picture books. Children are also given a nutritious snack and/or meal and a period for adequate rest, and are taught basic cleanliness and good health habits.

Preschool programs that are a part of the local public school system and are typically open to all children age three to four who are living in the community. There are generally no other eligibility criteria.

Programs that provide educational experiences and activities that are especially designed to meet the needs of young children who are at risk for disabilities or who have been identified as having a disability and who would benefit from a structured preschool setting which focuses on social, emotional and physical development in addition to pre-academic skills. Services generally include an assessment of the child's strengths and weaknesses and the development and implementation of an individualized plan to help the child develop confidence, self-esteem and appropriate social skills.