The Best Preschools in Larkspur, CA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Larkspur. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Larkspur Cooperative Nursery School
Independent
Larkspur Cooperative Nursery School is a highly-regarded parent-participation preschool that has been serving the community for over 70 years. The school emphasizes play-based learning, social-emotional development, and outdoor education in a nurturing environment. Parents actively participate in the classroom, creating a strong community bond. The program focuses on developing independence, creativity, and problem-solving skills through hands-on activities and exploration. The school maintains excellent teacher-to-student ratios and has a longstanding reputation for quality early childhood education.
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Bright Horizons at Larkspur Landing
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Larkspur Landing is part of the nationally recognized Bright Horizons network, offering comprehensive early education programs for children from infancy through preschool. The center features a research-based curriculum that focuses on school readiness, literacy development, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities. The facility includes modern classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and secure outdoor play areas. The center maintains high safety standards, employs qualified early childhood educators, and offers flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Guidepost Montessori at Larkspur
Higher Ground Education
Guidepost Montessori at Larkspur offers authentic Montessori education in a beautifully designed environment specifically created for young learners. The school serves children from toddler through kindergarten age, implementing the Montessori method that emphasizes independence, self-directed learning, and hands-on exploration. The program includes practical life skills, sensorial activities, language development, mathematics, and cultural studies. The school features mixed-age classrooms, certified Montessori guides, and a Spanish immersion option. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment and the impressive academic and social development they observe in their children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Larkspur, CA:
What is the average cost of preschool in Larkspur, CA, and are there any financial assistance options?
In Larkspur, full-time preschool tuition typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500+ per month, reflecting the high cost of living in Marin County. Many schools offer sliding scale tuition or sibling discounts, and you can apply for the California State Preschool Program (CSPP) through the Marin County Office of Education for income-eligible families. It's also worth asking individual schools about private scholarships.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Larkspur?
All licensed preschools in California are regulated by the Community Care Licensing Division. You can look up a specific Larkspur preschool's license status, inspection reports, and any citations online through the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) Care Facility Search website. Additionally, many top local preschools pursue accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which signifies a higher standard of quality.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and waitlist situations for Larkspur preschools?
Due to high demand in Marin County, the enrollment cycle for Larkspur preschools often begins a full year in advance, with many schools opening applications the prior January or February for the fall term. It is very common for popular programs to have long waitlists. Parents are advised to start their research and schedule tours at least 12-18 months before their desired start date.
Are there preschools in Larkspur that offer outdoor/nature-based programs?
Yes, Larkspur and the surrounding Marin area are known for a strong emphasis on outdoor education. Several local preschools incorporate dedicated outdoor classrooms, garden programs, and regular nature exploration, taking advantage of the proximity to open spaces like Baltimore Canyon and Mount Tamalpais. This philosophy is a defining feature of many programs in the area.
What are the main program philosophies I'll find among Larkspur preschools?
You will find a diverse mix of educational approaches in Larkspur, including play-based, Reggio Emilia-inspired, Montessori, and developmental (bank street) models. Many schools blend these philosophies with a focus on social-emotional learning, which is a priority in California's early learning frameworks. Visiting schools is the best way to see which philosophy aligns with your family's values.
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