Preschool Recommendations for Ellicott City area

I was wondering if anyone could recommend a preschool in the Ellicott City area. My son just turned two this August so I'm looking for next year. He's very social, and while he may be young for his class, he has an older sister he's always trying to keep up with, so I think he'll be fine. I'd prefer a non-religious program. I'd also prefer something within ten minutes of our house so I don't feel like I'm spending all day in the car between drop off and pick up. We live right near the end of Route 29. Thanks in advance!

My son went to Children's Manor Montessori right next to Ellicott Mills Middle School when he was younger.

Hi Bari,
I currently have both of my girls in the Young School at Kendall Ridge. We too live in EC and i find it reasonably close. A bit pricey but well worth it for kindergarten prep. My oldest is in her last year there and she seems to be doing great with her writing and counting. They have a great time there and have made loads of friends.
Hope this helps.
good luck

Hi Bari,
I know you said you'd prefer a prefer a non-religious program, but I still thought I'd mention my choice of school: we go to Glen Mar pre-school which is associated with Glen Mar United Methodist Church in Ellicott City. The Church has moved to New Cut Road, but the pre-school is still operating on their old site on 104 and Glen Mar Road until the new classrooms have been built. They do include a Christian message in their program, but don't over-do it.
My youngest is currently in the 2 morning a week 2-year-old program, and my two daughters both attended the school for 3 years and entered Kindergarten very socially adapted and academically ready for full-time Kindergarten.
The phone number for Glen Mar pre-school is 410 465 7133
Lisa Pisanic

My son was in the RECC program through the Howard COunty Public Schools. He loved it. They have a 2.5 hr program 4 days a week and a 4 hr program 5 days a week. These programs include special education children and services and have peers in the class. My son was a peer at Ilchester and Running Brook in the multiple intensive needs class (the 4 hour clas 5 days a week). Even though he didn't need it he received speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy along with the kids with special needs. THe student teacher ratio was 3:1 the 1st year and 4:1 the 2nd year. He really learned at lot and they incorportated play with the learning. He finished preschool reading on a 2nd grade level because of this program and he also knows how to deal with "special" kids. Check with your school that you are districted to to find out where this program would be held as not all schools have them. Good luck. I think this was the best option for preschool for my son.