<p>Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) poses a significant health risk for children in urban environments. This study was the first attempt to evaluate IAQ in kindergarten schools of Dhaka megacity and identify possible health risks for children. Air quality data were collected from six kindergarten schools (roadside and residential) using HAZ-SCANNER (Model: HIM-6000). The mean concentrations of the IAQ parameters, CO₂, CO, NO₂, SO₂, O₃, PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ in kindergarten school were found to be 905 ± 136&#xa0;ppm, 1513 ± 310&#xa0;ppb, 96 ± 36&#xa0;ppb, 30 ± 7&#xa0;ppb, 100 ± 32&#xa0;ppb, 66 ± 12&#xa0;µg/m³ and 119 ± 24&#xa0;µg/m3, respectively. The indoor PM₁₀, PM_2.5, SO₂, NO₂, and O₃ levels exceeded recommended limits by the World Health Organization (WHO), raising concerns about potential respiratory issues. IAQ data showed a significant disparity between roadside and residential schools, with higher levels of pollutants found in roadside locations. A survey was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire among the guardians, teachers, and staff to collect the perception of IAQ along with school environments and possible health risks. The survey revealed a notable level of concern about IAQ in kindergarten schools, with most of the respondents being concerned about ventilation, cleanliness, and the presence of indoor plants. Respondents also reported symptoms like asthma, allergies, coughing, headaches, etc. to be prominent in children with a possible connection to indoor air pollution. This study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and provides a basis for policy actions to improve IAQ at kindergarten schools in Dhaka and other megacities of developing countries.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>