Pondering Preschool Alternatives....

Is it just me, or are there too few ideal preschool programs compared to the number of interested families?  Is it just in Suburban DC or is it near you, too?  As a parent of a preschooler, we all want a program where our child is getting a terrific academic foundation, with excellent music and arts programs, physical activities, outdoor play, some exposure to foreign language, all with caring, nurturing, and qualified teachers that are appreciated by their management.  Oh...and we shouldn't have to sell body parts to cover tuition and be threatened with waitlists without an end date for waiting. 

One issue for us is that there are many great religion-based preschools, but our family is mixed-religion and we're hesitant to go "religious" for our daughter's preschool.  Is it that it is "hard" to develop a curriculum that challenges 2-5 year olds?  Is it that licensing is too much of a challenge so that it isn't worth it for interested entrepreneurs?  As entrepreneurs ourselves, this seems to be an opportunity, albeit one for an entrepreneur with more time at their disposal than I have.  If you have any suggestions or thoughts, email us at blog@andysparties.com.