McLean families with children ages 2.5 to 5 can still grab a spot in the Fairfax County Park Authority's Kids Play Preschool at Spring Hill Rec Center before the school year begins.

Enrollment is open on a first-come, first-served basis at the 1239 Spring Hill Road location, the only Kids Play Preschool site serving the McLean and Dranesville area, according to the Park Authority. FCPS schools open Monday, Aug. 24, and the Park Authority is urging families to secure spots before they fill.

The program offers two-, three- or five-day weekly schedules depending on the child's age. New this year, the Park Authority has added extended care and lunch options for certain programs at Spring Hill.

Christine Hodgson, youth services section coordinator for the Park Authority, said Tuesday, Aug. 4 that staff are preparing for both returning families and newcomers joining the program for the first time.

The curriculum covers art, science, music, circle time and outdoor play, with lessons extending into the park grounds themselves. Staff are CPR- and First Aid-certified, complete background checks and have prior experience working with children. The preschool is licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services.

The preschool follows the FCPS holiday schedule but uses Fairfax County Government's inclement weather policy for snow days. Tuition is paid monthly and due the month before the program month.

How to enroll

Families can start by submitting the Prospective Student Information form on the Park Authority's preschool webpage or by contacting Spring Hill directly at 703-827-0989 or [email protected].

Enrollment paperwork requires a recent physical (within 12 months), a completed emergency form with pick-up authorization and proof of the child's identity.

Space is limited. The Park Authority fills spots first-come, first-served.