The Best Preschools in Mountain View, CA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Mountain View. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Mountain View Parents Nursery School
Mountain View Parents Nursery School
Mountain View Parents Nursery School is a highly-regarded cooperative preschool that emphasizes parent involvement and child-centered learning. The program focuses on social-emotional development through play-based curriculum and hands-on activities. Parents actively participate in the classroom, creating a strong community environment. The school maintains excellent teacher-to-student ratios and follows developmentally appropriate practices, with certified early childhood educators guiding the program. Facilities include outdoor play areas designed for exploration and creative development.
Programs Offered:
The Learning Experience - Mountain View
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Mountain View is part of a nationally recognized early education chain with a comprehensive curriculum that includes phonics, foreign language exposure, and STEM activities. The center features modern, secure facilities with age-appropriate learning environments and outdoor play spaces. Their L.E.A.P. curriculum focuses on literacy, engineering, arts, and programming, preparing children for kindergarten success. The center maintains high safety standards with secure entry systems and trained staff in CPR and first aid.
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Bright Horizons at Mountain View
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Mountain View offers a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills development. The center serves many local tech company employees and provides a structured yet flexible learning environment. Their World at Their Fingertips curriculum incorporates hands-on learning experiences and project-based activities. The facility includes dedicated art studios, movement spaces, and outdoor learning environments. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development, maintaining low student-teacher ratios for personalized attention.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Mountain View, CA:
What is the average cost of preschool in Mountain View, CA, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Mountain View, full-time preschool tuition typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,500+ per month, reflecting the high cost of living in Silicon Valley. Many centers offer sliding scale fees, and you can apply for California's state-subsidized programs like the California State Preschool Program (CSPP) or the Alternative Payment Program, which are administered locally. Additionally, some employers in the tech industry offer childcare stipends or dependent care FSAs as a benefit.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Mountain View?
Every licensed preschool in California must be overseen by the Community Care Licensing Division; you can search for a facility's license status and view any past violations on the California Department of Social Services website. For quality indicators specific to Mountain View, look for programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or those participating in local quality rating systems. Scheduling in-person tours to observe teacher-child interactions is also highly recommended.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and waitlist situations for Mountain View preschools?
Enrollment for the fall semester often begins as early as January or February, with many high-demand preschools having application deadlines by March. Due to limited space, it's common for popular programs in Mountain View to have waitlists that are a year or more long, especially for infant and toddler programs. We recommend starting your search and making inquiries at least 12-18 months before your desired start date.
What types of preschool philosophies and programs are most common in Mountain View?
Mountain View offers a diverse range of educational approaches, including Montessori, Reggio Emilia, play-based, and academic-focused programs. You'll also find nature-based preschools that utilize local parks and unique language immersion programs, particularly Spanish and Mandarin, reflecting the area's cultural diversity. The best fit depends on your child's learning style and your family's educational values.
Are there specific safety or operational considerations for preschools in Mountain View, such as earthquake preparedness?
Yes, all licensed preschools in California are required to have an emergency disaster plan, including for earthquakes, and conduct regular drills. In Mountain View, it's wise to ask a preschool about their communication protocols during emergencies and their outdoor air quality policies for days affected by wildfire smoke from regional fires. Additionally, consider traffic patterns and drop-off/pick-up logistics, as congestion near tech campuses can be a factor.
Nearby Cities
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