Preschool & Pre-K in Ann Arbor

Play-based learning with experienced teachers in a place built for childhood

Ages 2½–5 3, 4 or 5 days per week 7:30–5:30 Maximum 1:8 ratio
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Why Families Choose TDC

Current Families

Report an absence, request an added day, or change your child’s schedule

Prospective Families

Start the enrollment process

Two children holding hands with fingers interlocked, standing in a forest with tall trees and sunlight filtering through the leaves.

My son transferred to The Discovery Center from a preschool with large class sizes and frequent staff turnover. We chose The Discovery Center because of its smaller classroom sizes and stable, caring staff—and it’s been one of the best decisions we’ve made for our family.  Since joining, my son, who previously faced daily struggles, is now thriving. He LOVES going to school and looks forward to it every day. One of the most impactful aspects of The Discovery Center is its structured routine, which provides the consistency my son needs to feel secure and confident. I especially appreciate the clear systems in place for transitions, such as flickering the lights and giving verbal announcements a few minutes before a transition is about to happen. These thoughtful practices have made a world of difference for my son, who used to find transitions very challenging. The teachers at The Discovery Center clearly care deeply about the children. I cannot thank them enough for creating an environment where my son can grow, learn, and be his happiest self.

Lauren H, 2025

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Our center has been serving families in the Ann Arbor area for over 50 years! At The Discovery Center, our community of families is close and long-lasting. Many of our students are siblings, children of alumni, or part of families who came to us through trusted community recommendations. We love seeing familiar connections return year after year—it’s a big part of what makes our community feel so welcoming. The Discovery Center celebrates the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our community. Our inclusive environment fosters a sense of belonging for every child to thrive.

Three children standing outdoors holding large numbers, with the girl on the left holding '1', the boy in the middle holding '0', and the girl on the right holding '2'.

Ready to learn more?

Start with our short Enrollment Interest Form

What Families Are Saying

  • “The Discovery Center is an amazingly warm, creative, and supportive place for kids to thrive. ... The teachers are so caring and warm. The outdoor spaces give kids such a wonderful opportunity to be out in nature. ... It’s not just a place to drop your kids. It’s a family.”

    Katie G, 2026

  • “From day one, we felt confident knowing he was in a safe, nurturing environment where diversity is embraced and every child is included and valued. ... We also deeply appreciate the consistency of the teaching staff. The low turnover and strong relationships between teachers and students speak volumes about the positive culture of the school and provided our son with stability and trust.”

    Davida M, 2026

  • “My three-year-old started the program as a shy kid, used to having a nanny and interacting mostly with adults at home. Within a couple months he blossomed into a confident, caring, and outgoing toddler who talked nonstop about his friends and couldn't wait to go to school on Monday mornings. TDC has meant so much to us, and we couldn't be happier with our experience.”

    Alex W, 2026

  • “Our kids’ experience at Discovery Center was rich and nurturing. We feel that they are ready for kindergarten- learned so much through play and group time each day. ... The team met their individual needs while always making my kids feel valued and loved. Preschool is so important as it lays the foundation for all learning.”

    Betsy B, 2026

Three overlapping sections titled Explore, Discover, Grow, each containing descriptive text about a preschool program, with small icons of a compass, magnifying glass, and sprouting plant above their respective titles.

Get to know us

At the heart of our school, is the organic culture among staff. We have rich diversity of ethnicities, ages, genders, and life experience. These differences make our team strong and empathetic, allowing us to nurture each student with the compassion they deserve.

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A cartoon blue star with a smiling face and small black eyes, surrounded by blue lines representing rays or sparkles.
Three children sitting together in front of a yellow sign that reads 'the discovery center' at a park, with trees and play structures in the background.
Three young women smiling outdoors under a yellow canopy.
Group of children sitting and lying on artificial grass, playing with a small globe and a ball outdoors.

Every corner tells a story; our center was built for growing minds.

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Ready to grow with TDC?