Ellis HartAs a parent, I understand that choosing the right kindergarten in Nashville can feel overwhelming. But what if you’re doing it for the first time?
The options can quickly feel overwhelming. It’s just stressful when every school claims to be the best, and you’re just trying to find a safe, happy place for your child.
In this guide, I break things down simply so you can compare schools without the confusion. Let’s take a look at some of the top kindergarten choices in Nashville.
How much does kindergarten cost in Nashville?
Kindergarten in Nashville is generally free through public schools, while private kindergarten programs can cost between $14,400 and $27,500 per year, depending on the school and its offerings.
| Program Type | Estimated Annual Cost |
| Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) | Free |
| Private Full-Day Kindergarten | $14,400 to $27,500+ |
| Top-Tier Private Institutions | $25,000+ (plus extra fees) |
1. The Gardner School of Nashville
Website: https://www.thegardnerschool.com/
Address: 601 Marriott Drive
Contact: (615) 882-0440
Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
If you want a preschool that blends structure with freedom, The Gardner School is a great pick.
They balance traditional learning with Montessori-inspired independence, giving kids room to grow academically while also exploring at their own pace. It’s a supportive environment where children can thrive in many ways.
I also like that they use trusted programs like Learning Without Tears and Open Court Reading, since it shows they follow proven teaching methods.
The school also feels very secure with strong access control, which is something parents really care about. Kids also get early exposure to extras like languages and STEAM activities built into their normal day.
The only downside is the high tuition since it is clearly positioned as a premium preschool. It may also not be the best fit for children who need specialized learning support.
Customer Reviews
Get updates throughout the day
Our daughter started at The Gardner School when she turned one, and like any parent, it was scary trusting our baby with someone else for the first time. We’ve felt so supported, and their app makes it easy to message their teachers and gets updates throughout the day. We especially love her teacher, Ms. Precious! She sends regular photos and updates that truly brighten our day and even made our daughter the cutest holiday onesie. It means so much to know she’s cared for, loved, and happy while she’s there. We’re so grateful for this school and the sweet teachers!
- Chelsea LeBlanc | Google Review
Instrumental in our child’s development
We love The Gardner School! They have been instrumental in our child’s development. A special thank you to Ms. Emma, Ms. Anita, Ms. Tracie, and Ms. Makayla for taking such good care of our child. Also a special shout out to Ms. Q for always preparing the meals and somehow getting our child to eat vegetables which is what rarity at home. We love Gardner!
- Lindsay Gregory | Google Review
2. Primrose School of Nashville Midtown
Website: https://www.primroseschools.com/
Address: 1915 Charlotte Avenue
Contact: (615) 709-9389
Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Looking for a preschool that values both academics and emotional growth? Primrose School Midtown does just that, blending structured lessons with guided play.
Their approach keeps kids interested and learning while ensuring they don’t feel overwhelmed or pressured. Plus, early readiness for kindergarten is built into daily activities.
I also like that they use well-known accreditation systems, which adds trust in their quality standards. When I looked into them, I noticed that many parents appreciate how much their children grow socially and emotionally at school, not just academically.
The downside is the strict 5:30 PM closing time, which can be tough for working parents with longer schedules. Tuition is also on the higher side compared to regular childcare centers.
Still, it’s a strong choice for families who want a structured but nurturing environment.
Customer Reviews
Incredibly supportive transition for a first-time mom
I’m a first-time mom, and starting daycare was a big transition for us — but Primrose has been incredibly supportive. Ms. Dayza, Ms. Teryn, and Ms. Tatiyana were all kind, communicative, and quick to address our concerns. Ms. Sandy made me feel completely safe trusting my son with her, and my husband loves our classroom teachers, Ms. Gab and Ms. Holden. We’re very grateful for the care and support our family has received and recommend them highly 🧡
- Victoria Rose Higdon | Google Review
Attentive, thoughtful team have exceeded all our expectations
Primrose and it’s attentive, thoughtful team have exceeded all our expectations as parents. As a first-time parent, it can be difficult sending your child to any school, but Primrose has put us at ease each step of the way. Would highly recommend Primrose to friends and family!
- Juan Turcios | Google Review
3. The Goddard School of Nashville Yards
Website: https://www.goddardschool.com/
Address: 191 10th Ave.
Contact: (629) 257-8550
Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
For parents who want more than just the basics, The Goddard School in Nashville Yards offers a modern curriculum focused on curiosity, collaboration, and real-world skills.
The facility itself feels very modern and secure, which gives parents peace of mind. Another big advantage is the long operating hours, which help working families with busy schedules.
I also noticed the leadership structure is very organized, which helps the school run smoothly.
However, the downtown location can make drop-offs stressful because of traffic. There’s also less outdoor space compared to suburban schools, which might matter for some families.
It’s also worth noting that tuition is on the high side, which is common for urban early learning centers.
Customer Reviews
Safe, happy and learning nearby
My son is almost two and comes home talking about school everyday. He loves his teachers and friends at school. He especially loves the trains nearby! I love the location and I especially appreciate knowing my son is safe, happy and learning nearby. I’ve had nothing but positive experiences from the staff and I look forward to seeing my son continue to thrive at Goddard.
- Heather Frazier | Google Review
Great communication and overall experience
Amazing school with knowledgeable teachers/staff. Everybody has been welcoming and eager to help our daughter learn and grow in the classroom and with friends.
Very clean, great communication, and overall experience with Goddard Nashville Yards.
- Emily Dhabalt | Google Review
4. Ivanetta H. Davis Early Learning Center
Website: https://ivanettadavis.mnps.org/
Address: 1910 South Hamilton Road
Contact: (615) 291-6355
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
If you want a public preschool that puts early development first, Ivanetta H. Davis Early Learning Center is a great choice.
They use play-based learning to help kids pick up reading and math skills naturally, making school feel fun and approachable. It’s a friendly environment where kids can grow and learn at their own pace.
The school also offers art and emotional development programs that help kids grow beyond academics.
The best part is it’s part of the public system, so it’s free for local families, which is a huge advantage.
However, transportation can be challenging due to the lack of bus service. Parents also need to handle pickup and drop-off themselves every day. Aftercare options are limited, especially for younger preschoolers.
Customer Reviews
They truly prepared her for kindergarten
My oldest attended Ivanetta in 2018-2019, LOVED IT! They truly prepared her for kindergarten. My middle child has been there since 2022. She will be graduating this month and will be tested for the Gifted and Talented program next week! They truly set up their students for success, which is why I’m so excited for my youngest to start with them this August! I have no doubt she will follow their academic success because of Ivanetta Davis ELC!!!
- Enjoli Morgan | Google Review
Caring staff and great at what they do
I have nothing but great things to say about this school. My daughter has been attending since she was 4 and it’s been a wonderful experience. The staff is caring and is great at what they do. S/o to the principal as well. You can tell by the way she knows EVERY child’s name that she’s not only involved but she also cares! I wish my daughter could continue another year but I know she will be well off, simply because of the support and help the school has offered her. #ProudDuck
- Paisley Patterson | Google Review
5. Grow Academy
Website: http://www.growacademynashville.com/
Address: 830 Kirkwood Ave.
Contact: (615) 810-9970
Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Grow Academy takes a more traditional approach to early education with a structured academic program. I noticed they use a curriculum that focuses on early reading, writing, and math in a very consistent way.
They also offer enrichment activities like ballet and karate, which add fun variety to the day.
One thing parents really appreciate is that meals like breakfast, lunch, and snacks are included, which makes daily routines easier. The school also communicates well with parents through a mobile app that shares updates and photos.
It’s just worth noting that some parts of the facility feel a bit dated compared to newer centers.
Also, the teaching style leans more toward structured, workbook-based learning. It might not be the best fit for families who prefer a more flexible or play-based approach.
Customer Reviews
Nurturing environment for the kids
Not only are we happy with the staff, but we are very fortunate to have Grow Academy in a great location for us and that they are willing to accommodate our schedule. My daughter has been at Grow since October 2012 and is a graduate from the infant room, in which they helped her to transition well. We love that they provide nutritious meals and snacks, and have a nurturing environment for the kids. My daughter never seems in a hurry to leave when we go to pick her up!
- Michelle Schweitzer | Google Review
Learning so many things every day
My son has been attending Grow Academy since the beginning of the year. It is a perfect location for my husband and I, who both work downtown. We have noticed that our son is learning so many things every day when he is there, coming home with new tricks to surprise Mommy and Daddy with! They have a wonderful, caring staff that my son clearly loves, and we really like all the efforts they make to create happy and healthy environments for all the children. A big beautiful playground area in the back, clean facility, and easy parking/drop off.
- Kate Pilcher | Google Review
