Why The River School Is a Standout Independent Preschool & Kindergarten in DC?

Step inside The River School in Washington, DC, and you immediately notice something different: children are not rushed from task to task, and learning doesn’t look like a checklist. Instead, you’ll see young learners exploring nature trails, collaborating in bright classrooms, solving problems through play, and building the early communication skills that will guide them for years to come.



For families looking for an independent school in Washington, DC that understands how young children learn best, The River School offers an approach grounded in connection, curiosity, and intentional support.

A School Built Specifically for Early Learners

Unlike schools that adapt their model to fit younger children, The River School is designed entirely around early childhood and early elementary development.

This means that:

  • Classrooms are structured for preschool and kindergarten minds

  • Learning materials are chosen with developmental science in mind

  • Teachers specialize in early movement, early communication, and early social growth

  • Children explore at a pace that supports natural discovery—not pressure

Parents searching for a preschool in Washington, DC often notice how rare it is to find a school with this level of specialization.

Learning Through Conversation, Play, and Real Experiences

The River School prioritizes communication-rich, play-driven learning.

Every lesson—whether in literacy, math, science, or art—is supported through activities that:

  • encourage expressive language

  • strengthen social problem solving

  • build confidence

  • allow children to think out loud

  • connect learning to real-life situations

This active, conversation-centered classroom model helps children absorb concepts more deeply and develop the essential communication skills that form the foundation of future academic success.

Outdoor Learning and Movement Are Part of Every Day

The River School integrates nature and physical exploration into its daily routine.

Students might:

  • garden with classmates

  • explore outdoor play spaces

  • participate in movement-based lessons

  • take nature walks or observation trips

  • learn science concepts through hands-on experiences

This immersion in movement and nature supports healthier emotional regulation, stronger attention, and deeper engagement—especially valuable during the preschool and kindergarten years.

A Strong Beginning for Future Learning

While academics matter, The River School believes that early childhood education should support the whole child. That includes:

  • collaboration

  • empathy

  • resilience

  • independence

  • confidence

  • curiosity

These qualities shape how children approach learning for the rest of their lives.

Families who consider the school among the best private school options in DC often point to this blend of emotional, social, and academic readiness as the lasting value of The River School education.

Is The River School Right for Your Child?

If you’re exploring kindergarten in Washington, DC or thinking about a place that nurtures young children with intention, warmth, and expertise, The River School offers an environment built precisely for those early, formative years.

It’s a space where children grow confidently, communicate clearly, and discover joy in learning—supported by teachers who truly understand how young learners thrive.
Location: 4880 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA

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