Frequently Asked Questions

What ages and programs does Mockingbird MicroSchool offer in Austin, TX?

We enroll children starting at 18 months through Pre‑K (ages 1½ to 5). Our small‑group model includes the Toddler House (A Mixed Age Class of Toddlers, ages 18 mo–3 yrs) and Preschool House (2 Mixed Age Classes of Preschoolers, ages 3-5 years old). This setup is perfect for families seeking a focused, play‑based preschool or daycare in Central Austin or South Austin.

What is the teacher-to-child ratio at Mockingbird Centers in Austin?

We maintain a very low student‑to‑teacher ratio in our MicroSchool classrooms— 1:4 in the Toddler House and 1:6 in the Preschool Classes —to ensure each child receives individual and customized learning that follows the curiosity of the individual students themselves as well as the class as a whole.

What is your educational approach?

We draw heavily from a few philosophies centered on “learning through play”. We primarily employ Reggio Emilia approach but we also borrow from Montessori and Nature Play Based learning. We blend the best parts of these early childhood methods to foster curiosity, confidence, and character development. It's an ideal curriculum for parent‑searches like top preschools in Austin Texas, creative preschool Austin, and play-based early education in Austin, and Reggio Emilia preschool in Austin.

Where is the school located and what are your hours?

We're located at 4422 Gillis Street, South Austin, TX 78745, serving families looking for preschools near South Austin. Open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

What are your tuition costs and enrollment availability?

Tuition is $2,150/month for a 5‑day full‑day program—competitive within Austin preschool rates preschoolfinder.net. Tuition includes a subscription to hot, catered lunches from Crave-It Nutrition, diapers, wipes, and healthy snacks free of refined sugars. Due to a recent expansion, we have immediate openings, available now.

What makes Mockingbird MicroSchool different from other daycares or preschools in Austin?

Unlike larger centers, our MicroSchool structure ensures hyper‑focused attention for each child. We prioritize intentional learning, small class sizes, and educators with deep passion for early childhood—ideal for families searching for boutique preschool Austin or small daycare center near me. We are the best of both worlds for families wanting the best of both worlds offered by home based programs and licensed centers. You’ll find the individualized learning of a home based daycare AND great amenities that you might find at a big center. We are a small community of like minded parents who place a great deal of importance in human development from 18 months to 5 years old.

How experienced are your teachers and staff?

We only hire experienced and degreed early childhood educators who love what they do. We also follow a compensation model that reflects the importance of this formative stage, distinguishing us in searches like preschool teachers Austin TX and quality early education staff Austin.

Is your center licensed?

Mockingbird Centers is a fully licensed learning center in Austin. Our small classes of less than 15 students per class are less than half of our licensed capacity allowed by state regulations, providing peace of mind for parents researching licensed daycare Austin TX.

Community: What’s that mean ?

Families at Mockingbird MicroSchool are part of a close‑knit community of like‑minded parents. We all believe that 18 months to 5 years old is when humans are developing some of the most important neuropathways that they will use throughout their entire lives. The lessons they learn here (like how to regulate emotions, resolve conflicts, build attachments, and their entire sense of self) will echo into the future. Enrollments reflect trust in our Austin community of families seeking engaged preschool programs in South Austin. Parents often describe the environment as collaborative, supportive, and growth‑oriented.