The Best Preschools in Santa Monica, CA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Santa Monica. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Co-op School Santa Monica
The Co-op School
The Co-op School Santa Monica is a highly-regarded parent participation preschool offering a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum. The school emphasizes social-emotional development, outdoor exploration, and hands-on learning experiences. With small class sizes and high teacher-to-student ratios, the program focuses on individualized attention and community building. The school maintains excellent safety standards and strong parent-teacher partnerships, with parents actively involved in classroom activities and school operations. Their outdoor classroom environment and nature-based approach to early education have received consistently positive reviews from families.
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Montessori of Santa Monica
Montessori of Santa Monica
Montessori of Santa Monica provides authentic Montessori education for children ages 2-6, following AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) principles. The school features beautifully prepared environments with high-quality Montessori materials and highly trained guides. The curriculum emphasizes independence, practical life skills, sensorial development, and academic foundations in language and mathematics. The school maintains small class sizes with certified Montessori teachers and emphasizes peaceful conflict resolution and respect for each child's individual development timeline. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment and the remarkable developmental progress they observe in their children.
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First Presbyterian Nursery School
First Presbyterian Church of Santa Monica
First Presbyterian Nursery School has been serving Santa Monica families for over four decades with a developmental, play-based approach to early childhood education. The school focuses on the whole child, emphasizing social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development through hands-on learning experiences. Their experienced teaching staff maintains low student-teacher ratios and creates a warm, nurturing environment. The program includes extensive outdoor play in their secure playground, creative arts, music, and emergent curriculum that follows children's interests. The school is known for its strong community feel, experienced long-term staff, and excellent preparation for kindergarten transition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Santa Monica, CA:
What is the average cost of preschool in Santa Monica, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
The average cost for a full-time preschool program in Santa Monica typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500+ per month, reflecting the city's high cost of living. Many preschools offer sliding scale tuition, and you can apply for financial aid through the California State Preschool Program (CSPP) or local organizations like the Santa Monica Early Childhood Task Force. It's also wise to inquire directly with individual schools about sibling discounts or scholarship opportunities.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Santa Monica?
All licensed preschools in Santa Monica are regulated by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). You can check a facility's license status, view inspection reports, and see any citations on the CDSS Care Facility Search website. Additionally, many high-quality programs pursue accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or participate in Santa Monica's own quality rating initiative, which are excellent indicators of program standards.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and waitlist situations for Santa Monica preschools?
Enrollment for the fall term often begins as early as January, with many popular schools having application deadlines by March. Due to high demand, waitlists are common at many Santa Monica preschools, especially for infant and toddler programs. It's highly recommended to start your research and school tours at least a year in advance, and consider applying to multiple programs to increase your options.
Are there specific preschool programs in Santa Monica that focus on outdoor or environmental education?
Yes, Santa Monica's proximity to the ocean and parks inspires several preschools with strong outdoor components. Look for programs with "nature-based" or "emergent" curricula that utilize local resources like Tongva Park, the beach, or the Santa Monica Farmers Market. Some schools also have dedicated outdoor classrooms and gardens, aligning with California's emphasis on environmental literacy and health.
How does the city of Santa Monica support early childhood education and preschool accessibility?
The City of Santa Monica actively supports early learning through its Child Care & Early Education Division, which helps families find care and operates several city-run preschool sites with income-based tuition. The city also funds the Santa Monica Early Childhood Task Force, which works to improve quality, affordability, and access. Parents should explore the city's "Early Childhood" web pages for resources, referrals, and information on local parent education workshops.
Nearby Cities
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