Preschool & Kindergarten

Building Foundations for Faith, Learning & Life

At Community Lutheran School, located in Readlyn just a short drive from Waterloo and Cedar Falls, we understand that choosing a Preschool or Kindergarten is more than an academic decision. It is an act of trust. At CLS, we honor that trust by creating an environment where children are not only safe, but truly known, loved, and cared for.

Our Preschool and Kindergarten programs provide a strong, Christ-centered foundation during these formative years. Families from Readlyn, Waterloo, Cedar Falls, and surrounding communities choose CLS for its secure, joyful environment rooted in faith. Through consistent routines, caring relationships, and intentional instruction, students develop academic readiness alongside confidence, curiosity, and a growing understanding of God’s love for them.

Early Childhood Programs at CLS

Community Lutheran School serves families from Readlyn and the greater Waterloo and Cedar Falls area by offering multiple early childhood options to meet the needs of growing families:

  • 3-Year-Old Morning Preschool
  • 4-Year-Old Preschool
  • 4-Year-Old Extended Day Preschool
  • Kindergarten
  • Daycare (available 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM)
Each program is thoughtfully designed to support children developmentally while providing consistency between home, school, and church. Families can trust that the same values, care, and Christ-centered approach are present throughout each part of the day.

A Christ-Centered Beginning

Faith formation begins early at CLS. Preschoolers and kindergartners learn that prayer and Scripture are part of everyday life.

Students are introduced to:
  • Luther’s Morning and Evening Prayers
  • The Lord’s Prayer
  • Bible stories and age-appropriate Scripture
  • Christian songs and music
  • Learning to pray together as a class
These rhythms give children words and practices they carry with them - at school, at home, and as they grow. Faith becomes foundational.
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Learning Through Structure, Play, and Relationship 

Our early childhood classrooms balance structure with exploration, creating an environment where children feel secure, curious, and excited to learn. 

A typical day may include: 

Small Group Table Activities

Hands-on learning that builds early literacy, math, and fine motor skills.

Morning Meeting

A welcoming start to the day that includes devotion, calendar, weather, a question of the day, math mini-lessons, and music and movement.

Snack Time

A chance to practice routines, gratitude, and social skills.

Group Learning Time

Literacy mini-lessons, read-alouds, and thematic or social-emotional lessons that support communication, listening, and kindness.

Large Motor & Outdoor Play

Time to move, explore, and develop physical coordination.

Interest Areas & Small Group Work

Guided play and exploration that encourage creativity, independence, and problem-solving.

Preparing Children for What’s Next

The goal of Preschool and Kindergarten at CLS is not to rush children - but to prepare them well.

Students grow in:
  • Early reading and math readiness
  • Listening, following routines, and working with others
  • Social skills and emotional awareness
  • Confidence as learners and friends
  • Understanding that they are loved and created by God
By the time students move into elementary grades, they are equipped academically, socially, and spiritually - with a strong foundation already in place.
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Daycare That Extends the School Day 

CLS offers daycare from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, providing families with flexibility and continuity of care. 
Daycare continues the same caring, Christ-centered environment, offering time for play, rest, homework support (for older siblings), and structured activities – all under the supervision of trusted staff who know your child. 

What our families are saying

Parents often share that what brings them peace is knowing their child is seen each day, prayed for, and welcomed with patience and care. At CLS, children are never just part of a classroom - they are part of a community. See what our families have to say

“CLS comes alongside us as parents, reinforcing the same Christian values we teach at home.”

Jennifer JaschenCLS Parent

“CLS feels like one big family. You can feel Christ’s love everywhere.”

Kira StoverParent & Alum

“What happens at school is shaping how she responds to life at home. That’s powerful.”

CLS Parent

“Sending my children to the same school I attended is a full-circle blessing.”

CLS Alum

A Strong Start, Rooted in Faith

At Community Lutheran School in Readlyn, conveniently located near Waterloo and Cedar Falls, Preschool and Kindergarten are more than early education. They are the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith, learning, and belonging.
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