Enrolling your child in preschool from the age of 2 is possible, subject to certain conditions. Here's everything you need to know to succeed at this key stage: admission requirements, administrative procedures, advantages and practical advice.

Is your child between 2 and 3 years old?

No need to wait for the official start of the school year set by the Ministry of National Education. At École M, we welcome children into our Very Small Section (TPS) from the age of 2. Offer them a gentle start in a bilingual and nurturing environment.
Click here to see availability for the next school year.

At what age can I enroll my child in preschool?

The official age for starting preschool is generally 3. However, in France, it is possible to enroll your child as early as age 2, provided he or she is emotionally and socially ready, and subject to availability of places.

This early entry often takes place in the "Toute Petite Section" (TPS) of preschool, in public or private schools with suitable places and facilities. The French Ministry of Education even encourages this kind of preschooling to promote equal opportunities, particularly in priority areas. You can consult the official texts on this subject here.

If you are interested in preschool entry from age 2, attend the next information meeting at école M.

‍

What are the criteria for enrolling your child in preschool from age 2?

Several criteria are considered for accepting children from age 2:

• The child's maturity (toilet training, ability to follow the class rhythm)
• Availability of places in the chosen school
• The child's or family's specific needs (early socialization, early stimulation)

école M in the 5th arrondissement, located near the Jardin du Luxembourg at 247 rue Saint Jacques, and école M in the 14th arrondissement, located in the Pernety / Gaité / Montparnasse district at 43 rue Maurice Ripoche, welcome children from age 2 into a specific class with a very small group of 14 children. To learn more, feel free to watch a recorded information meeting for all the details.

‍

Benefits of Early Preschool Enrollment

Enrolling your child from age 2 offers several benefits:

1. Early socialization with other children: The child learns to interact with other children, to share, and to respect simple rules. They integrate into a group and develop their social skills.
2. Enhanced intellectual and sensory stimulation: Through fun and adapted activities, the child discovers the first notions of language, motor skills, logic, and independence.
3. Rapid Development of Independence and Language
4. Smooth adaptation: Early entry into preschool allows for a gradual transition to the school rhythm, with staggered reception times and enhanced supervision.

According to Les Petits Culottés, this early entry can even prevent certain later adaptation difficulties.

Our Practical Tips for a Successful Early Start to School

• Gradually prepare your child for this change by regularly talking to them about school.
• Organize a preceding visit to familiarize him with the school environment.
• Establish routines to facilitate adaptation to the new school life.

‍

‍

‍

École M: An Ideal Setting for a First School Experience from Age 2

At École M, you can enroll your child in preschool from age 2 in a caring, stimulating environment tailored to their needs. Our teaching teams, trained in the needs of toddlers, follow each child's rhythm and offer a variety of activities to stimulate their curiosity, motor skills and independence.

We focus on:

• Sensory and motor development
• The development of language and communication
• Socialization through play and group activities
• Individualized support so that each child progresses at their own pace

Our multi-age classes allow younger children to be inspired by older children and to progress naturally. The team works closely with families to ensure a smooth and gradual integration.

Why choose a first schooling at École M ?

Beyond simple childcare, we offer a true first year of school adapted for toddlers. Choosing École M for school entry from age 2 means offering your child:

• French-English bilingualism through immersion
• Active learning (Montessori-inspired)
• Small class sizes to respect each child's pace
• A caring team attentive to their needs
• A positive and enriching first school experience
• Activities designed for a child's holistic development

Discover how starting school from age 2 can transform your child's journey with this article: Why start school from age 2?

FAQ : Frequently asked questions about enrolling in preschool from age 2

• Is preschool enrolment at age 2 compulsory?
  No, enrolment at age 2 is optional. School becomes compulsory from age 3.
• What's the difference between preschool from age 2 and nursery day care?
  Nursery day care welcome children up to age 3, while preschool from age 2 gradually introduces children to the school environment through structured learning.
• What if my child isn't ready at age 2?
  Respect your child's pace: it's better to wait a few more months than to rush them into school.
• Is it easy to get a preschool place from age 2 in Paris?
  In Paris, places are limited, but some schools, like École M, offer early registration.

To learn more

Still not sure? Come and visit École M and talk to our teams about integrating children from the age of 2. To find out more about our programs and approach, click here.

You can also consult this resource on schooling for children under 3 to better understand the challenges and procedures.

Enroll your child now

Give your child the best start to school from age 2 at École M. Enroll my child in the Toddler Program.

👉 Also discover:

• Understanding the French school system
• Bilingual preschool Paris 20, opening September 2025
• Principles of an inclusive school

‍