Schools in San Diego, CA

“My daughter attends Little Lamb pre school and they all love her so much & I know she’s well taken care of by how well she speaks of all her teachers. They make her feel safe, loved, & most importantly she is always learning something new. Before going in she was like 70 perfect potty trained and she got potty trained within 1 week of being there . This is the best pre school I could’ve taken my daughter.”

“Both of my children have attended Little Angels Academy since they were infants. My son has already graduated, and my daughter will be graduating this year — and we truly couldn’t be more grateful for it.

The school does a wonderful job creating engaging, fun, and educational activities that keep the children excited to learn. My daughter genuinely looks forward to going to school every morning and comes home happy and full of stories. That says everything.

We also really appreciate the balanced, nutritious meals they provide and the overall nurturing environment they maintain.

We highly recommend Little Angels Academy to any family looking for a loving, supportive, and enriching place for their children to grow. It has been such a special part of our family’s journey.”

“Amazing teachers, great learning and play environment for kids, friendly staff, flexible hours, and days open during the year. My kids had a great experience at 4S Primrose School.”

“We love ELCA Mira Mesa! They are like family to us. Our 3 baby just started in the baby room. The staff is very friendly and caring. I like how the teachers know all the kids. The communication and care taken for each student is loving and reassuring. The staff is attentive and supportive of the needs of our children who deal with medical issues. We are grateful for the connection made at ELCA Mira Mesa. ❤”

“Highly recommend Sacred Heart Preschool! We absolutely love everyone that has taught and taken care of my son over the past few years. They feel like home every time I drop my son off. Really there's so many wonderful things to say about them!”

“Our kiddo has been at Green Beans since they were about 18 months old and they love it! They have learned so much since starting daycare and they always come home happy. We love seeing the updates of them playing, dancing, and doing activities. Our little one can struggle with separation anxiety and every staff member there has been the absolute best at supporting with love and care. All of the workers are gentle, welcoming, and kind. They structure the day with learning, free play, art, music, and time at the library. We are very grateful to be a part of the Green Beans family! Ms. Louise has created an amazing daycare that feels like a second home.”

“Wee Care ELC has been such a wonderful part of our family’s journey. We had all three of our children attend the school, and each one had an amazing experience there. The teachers truly care about every child and create such a warm, supportive environment.

We always felt welcomed and heard as parents, and any concerns were addressed thoughtfully and appropriately. They really become partners in parenthood as you navigate each stage with your kids, which meant so much to us.

We are incredibly grateful for the care, love, and support our family received over the years and would highly recommend Wee Care ELC to any family looking for a nurturing preschool/community.”

“I love Self-Heal School! Jane and John are the absolute sweetest and are extremely knowledgeable!! By taking their classes and programs, I've been able to heal myself and completely change my life!”

“Our son attended Sorrento Valley Children’s Center in Ms Marla's class and we couldn’t be happier with the love and care he received. The teachers are incredibly kind and attentive, and our son always felt safe, supported, and happy in their care. In fact, he often didn’t want to leave at pick-up because he loved spending time in their amazing play area—complete with playhouses, trains, trucks, and plenty of space to run. He made wonderful friends and truly thrived here.

We are so grateful to the owners and directors Carol, Elana and, who make the entire experience seamless for parents—exactly what you hope for when sending your toddler off to school. We couldn’t recommend Sorrento Valley Children’s Center more highly!”

“We are so grateful for Kids Care Club and the incredible impact they had on both of our boys, who attended from 2023–2025. Our oldest started extremely shy after the pandemic, and the teachers showed so much patience and care in helping him build confidence and social skills. The growth we saw in him was truly amazing.

Our youngest is a boundary-pusher, and Kids Care Club provided the perfect balance of structure, guidance, and encouragement to help him thrive socially and academically. They truly meet each child where they are and help them succeed.

The staff genuinely cares, communicates well with families, and creates a warm, nurturing environment. We couldn’t recommend Kids Care Club more highly. We truly miss them!”

“If you’re reading reviews because you’re trying to decide if Carmel Mountain Preschool is the right fit for your child, I hope this gives you a little peace.

CMP was the only preschool we toured. We walked the campus once, looked at each other, and just knew. There is truly nothing else like it. The gardens, the animals, the art studio, the kitchen, the apple trees—everything is so intentional, and you can feel it the moment you arrive.

Like any parent, my biggest hope was that my daughter would feel safe, loved, and excited to go to school each day. From day one, she did. She absolutely thrived here. I watched her become more confident, curious, independent, and kind, and she genuinely loved going to school.

The teachers are what make this place so special. They truly know each child, communicate so well with parents, and care deeply about the children they’re entrusted with. I never questioned whether my daughter was being loved and cared for because it was so evident every single day.

This school also gave me an incredible gift. Knowing my daughter was so happy and well cared for gave me the peace of mind to finish my bachelor’s degree and prepare for our growing family. That season of our lives would have looked very different without CMP.

If you’re looking for a preschool that values childhood, encourages curiosity, and creates an environment where children can simply be kids, I can’t recommend Carmel Mountain Preschool enough.

I will always be grateful that this was my daughter’s first school. It gave her such a beautiful start, and it gave our family memories we’ll cherish forever.”

“Our family’s experience at St. Paul’s Lutheran School in San Diego has been truly exceptional. With three kids enrolled, we see every day how a nurturing environment and strong academics go hand in hand. The teachers genuinely care for each child, and the small class sizes allow for meaningful, personalized attention. What makes St. Paul’s especially unique is the strong sense of family and its Christ-centered foundation. Faith isn’t just taught—it’s lived out daily, shaping our children both academically and spiritually. We are so grateful to be part of this loving community.

That same warmth extends beyond the school and into the church. The congregation is welcoming and kind, and our kids love Sunday Kids Church. There are so many opportunities to get involved—Bingo, school events, house building in Mexico, backpack drives, Bible studies, and gatherings for kids, youth, young adults, women, and men. There truly is something for everyone, and it’s a joy to be part of a church that feels like home.”

“Everyone here is absolutely amazing, the teachers are so caring and sweet. The team was an absolute gem when I needed to get my daughter care while I attended school. We miss them tons! If we ever return to the area I would totally come back!”

“I am worried about my friend Zaid Al Mubarek. He is very scared of bombs. He comes from a place where there were bombings and he felt like folks didn't like him because he always gave the contracts to Americans because in his eyes there was less graft and less corruption and the assurances they made reliable so people resented him and I think it's really important that he be able and remain in Turkey if that's where he wants but if he wants I think this place is nice and he always has the most wonderful things to say about Jews oh how his father adores Jews and Zaid is so happy to be in Turkey and that's just so wonderful but of course people miss him and hope he'll return. But don't try and force him on an airplane thats not his thing and he doesn't like dogs either but the most of all hates the bombing and all the times shuddered in fear it's so sad and he was here well before Trump let people know he didn't want folks coming anymore. No don't send him to Turkey. He's so scared he tells everyone he's in Turkey he's my friend and I really am scared like he's being put on a plane against his will so i'm terrified and want to make sure he's okay you know i'm so worried about Zaid with these deportations he's such a nice fellow and I know he wants to be here and i feel like someone is being put on a plane against their will and i worry if it's Zaid. You know he would make such a mighty fine leader for your church is understand there is a special visa program for religious institutions and so i want to ask if you could hold his visa in case they're trying to be bad and he's a mighty fine fellow.”

“My son attended childtime since he was 4 years old. He attended the pre-k program and stayed until he aged out in school age. The teachers were always so wonderful and attentive. Would recommend”

“This school really cares for the children. I would not hesitate to put my child here. Staff work well as a team. It is very clean with a lovely playground. The children in every class are occupied with a great learning environment throughout the day. Very loving place in a convenient location. Excellent directors and teachers.
Highly recommend.”

“Our daughter Eleanor is just finishing 3 years at SEA, and heading off to TK. We have had the most incredible preschool experience at SEA, particularly this last year with Ms. Tammy and Ms. Paige in the Dolphin class! Our daughter was excited to go to school every day, and the amount of growth and learning we saw in her was incredible. Ms. Tammy and Ms. Paige really went the extra mile. Whether it was learning all about outer space with the Artemis mission (a favorite in our house) or hatching baby chicks in the spring, these awesome ladies always had something exciting going on that fostered a positive and fun learning environment. We will miss the Dolphins - and SEA!!”

“We had my son’s 4th birthday at Kid Ventures and it was fantastic. Best birthday experience we’ve ever had!! Debbie and Darren went above and beyond to make the day special. Their staff was attentive and so easy to work with. The kids had an absolute blast.”

“We absolutely love this preschool. The teachers and administrators are exceptional, and the level of care they show every single child is something special.

Our son had a tough transition at first, and they met him (and us!) with so much patience, flexibility, communication, and support. They really took the time to understand what he needed, and it made all the difference. Now he walks the halls with confidence and excitement.

Our son knows every teacher on campus, not just his classroom teachers, and each one greets him with the warmest hellos in the morning and genuine goodbyes at the end of the day. It’s clear the staff truly know and care about the kids.

In the year and a half he’s been here, we’ve seen his confidence grow. He’s so proud of the artwork he brings home. The environment is safe, clean, and fun, and it feels like a place where kids are really seen.

We feel incredibly lucky to be part of this school community and can’t wait to send our second son when he’s old enough.”

“We’ve had such a wonderful experience at The Vine. My daughter has been in the Infant 2 class since she was 6 months old and is now almost 11 months, and she has absolutely flourished there. Once we're in the parking lot and she knows where we're at, she starts getting so excited... which says everything as a parent!

I truly can’t say enough good things about the teachers. Ms. Jaliva, Ms. Jazmin, and Ms. Irma are the sweetest, most caring women you could ask for. It’s so clear how much they genuinely love and care for the kids. I also love the Brightwheel app they use. Getting updates and photos throughout the day is the best and gives so much peace of mind. My baby always looks so happy, and I no longer feel that “mom guilt” because I know she’s getting the best care, learning, growing, and making little friends.

Highly, highly recommend The Vine!”

“We’ve been part of the Dot to Dot community for two years now, and we continue to love it. Below is our detailed review of the daycare.

Highlights:
- Pros:
- Owner is caring and listens to feedbacks
- Passionate and caring teachers
- Hands on learning and exploration
- Focus on each child as an individual, building confidence and independence
- Strong support for social-emotional development
- Exceptional food program with fresh meals, snacks, and nutrition education
- Cons:
- Closing a bit early (4:30 extended care till 5), difficult for working parents finishing work at 5
- Neutral:
- Scheduled days off are comparable to other daycares in the area

Dot to Dot RB has been an amazing place for my daughter. I first heard about it through a friend, and after touring the center, I was immediately impressed by the confidence and independence the children displayed. It was clear that the teachers truly see each child as an individual and intentionally support their social-emotional growth while helping them believe in themselves.

The administration, teachers, staff, and chefs are all exceptional. Every person plays an important role in making this center such a supportive and nurturing environment. Since attending Dot to Dot, I’ve been amazed at how confidently my daughter expresses herself—through artwork, language, and even singing.

When we recently went through a challenging period managing my daughter’s emotions, the administration and her teachers were incredibly kind and supportive. They made time to meet with us, walk through strategies together, and thoughtfully discuss ways to help her succeed. On top of that, the administration gifted her a special book with plush toys that she now loves using at home to identify and talk about her emotions. That level of care truly meant a lot to our family.

Dot to Dot also offers an outstanding food program. Not only do the chefs prepare fresh lunches and morning and afternoon snacks, but the children also participate in a food education program. They learn all about the food, where it comes from, how it’s grown, handled, delivered, and why it’s important for their health and nutrition.

I am so grateful to have my daughter at Dot to Dot RB and highly recommend it to any family looking for a caring, thoughtful, and enriching daycare environment.”

“If you would have told my younger self who gave up on the Catholic Church, all churches AND God that we’d become a member of a new church, I would have laughed and continue my self-destructive behaviors to prove that there is no God.

Sounds dramatic right? But 100% true. Until something in my heart started to call out for something greater than myself. That call led me here to this church. There’s so many things that I didn’t like about religion, church and what was being fed to us. But, this place spoke to me.

This IS a reconciling congregation and I love that. I love how the pastors are women from different ethnicities. I love how they unapologetically connect scripture to the world we live in today. I love how there’s traditional service with choir and organ music but if you’re uncomfortable with that, the church also has a contemplative way of worship. The organist and choir has my head bobbing to all the notes lol. I love that they integrate technology in a way that I’ve never experienced at another church including a podcast! I love that there’s many ministries and different ways to be of service. All to say, I love church, I love God and I love the spiritual journey I’m on.

At the end of the day, it’s up to you to come and decided if this church is a good fit. To really experience and take it all in. Not what these reviews say, including my own, not what your family or friends say, but you and only you.”

“We are so thankful for our experience at MCD and everything they have done for Julian these past 3 years. It has honestly been amazing watching him grow and seeing the changes in him over time. We saw such a big difference in him socially — he became more outgoing, built friendships, and got so much more comfortable interacting with others.

We also saw huge growth in his discipline and independence. I really enjoyed watching him learn and seeing him become more confident doing things on his own. It was so nice seeing him take pride in little things and become more responsible as he grew.

One thing I really appreciated about MCD was how caring and professional everyone always was. The teachers and staff truly care about the kids, and I always felt comfortable knowing Julian was in a safe and positive environment.

I also think MCD is a great place to start kids off. They do such a great job creating a positive environment where kids can learn, grow, and build important skills at such a young age.

We are going to miss MCD so much and are very grateful for all the love, care, and support Julian and our family received. Thank you for being such a special part of these years.”

“My son has been attending this daycare since he was just 6 months old, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the care and support we've received these last two years. As a military family, transitions can be tough, but the staff here—especially Ms. Ledge and Ms. Sherry—have gone above and beyond to make sure our son feels safe, loved, and supported.

When my husband recently went underway, they offered helpful tips and emotional support to help my son adjust, which made a big difference for both of us. Their kindness, experience, and genuine care have made this center feel like an extension of our family. Highly recommend to any family looking for a nurturing and understanding environment for their little ones!”

“We love ABC! so grateful to have found it for our daughter. Over the past 3+ years, it has been such a positive and nurturing environment for her growth and development.

Not only do they implement Montessori principles in the classroom, but they also help us bring those approaches into our home life as well (talking, walking, potty training, no biting, calming the body, sharing toys, and more!).
The preschool has a welcoming vibe, and the children genuinely seem happy and comfortable there (we love the chickens and garden!). Sometimes when I pick up my daughter, she doesn’t even want to leave because she’s having so much fun playing with her friends! She has learned so much from letters and colors to writing and respecting others and practicing good etiquette.

The teachers are incredibly kind and caring, and the director is proactive, approachable, and truly invested in every child’s development.

We couldn’t recommend this daycare/preschool more highly!”

“I love the staff & the curriculum for the children, esp. for the summer. The activities for the children during the summer, is similar to day camp for the kids with guests in costume to entertain. Every teacher our son has ever had has been attentive, communicative and helpful. We love all of the staff who's helped our son grow. From Ms./Mrs. Rokaya, Anna, Alex, Jamie, Rachel, Maha, Mahuya, & everyone who've I've forgotten to mention.”

“Our child has been attending Pearl Montessori Preschool for a full year now, and we could not be happier with our experience. Choosing a preschool is always a tough decision, but this school has truly exceeded all of our expectations.

Over the past year, we have watched our child blossom beautifully. The growth has been incredibly well-rounded:

Mentally: The Montessori curriculum has sparked a genuine love for learning and discovery.

Socially: Our child has learned how to collaborate, share, and build meaningful friendships with peers.

Emotionally: We’ve seen a massive boost in confidence, independence, and emotional maturity.

A huge part of what makes this school so special is the incredible leadership and staff. The director, Kelly, is absolutely fantastic—always professional, approachable, and deeply invested in the well-being of every family. The teachers are exceptionally warm and caring, creating a nurturing environment where children feel completely safe to explore and grow.

As a wonderful bonus, we absolutely love all the beautiful art projects our child brings home! It’s a joy to see their creativity celebrated every week.

If you are looking for a quality, nurturing preschool that truly fosters a child's full potential, I cannot recommend Pearl Montessori Preschool enough!”

“Tommy, a Ninja course instructor at Pacific Beach in SD, is an incredible teacher, motivator and innovative coach. I observed Tommy coach a group of older elementary students on Thursday evening and he not only had excellent control of a group of 6 kids, he also designed exercises and courses that were not only well thought out they were effective in keeping kids engaged and on task. On the following Saturday I brought my 6 year old grand son to his level two ninja class where Tommy was his coach. My grandson was feeling nervous but Tommy quickly and effectively encouraged him to do his best in all he did. Tommy devised back to back activities to not only challenge my grandson but also encourage and develop needed skills for my grandson to continue to advance in his Ninja training. I appreciate the time Tommy took to reassure my grandson and help him gain confidence. As a teacher, I’m well aware that not all coaches are able to manage a group of children and I’m grateful KidWonder has found an excellent coach like Tommy!”

“This place was a game changer for our daughter. We joined during Covid and stayed through Kinder and wish we could have even done 1st grade there (if the option existed). The teachers are incredible. Miss Angel has helped give our daughter such a strong foundation alongside all her other incredible teachers like Ms, Whitney, Ms. Ausra and Ms. Preeti, to name just a few. Miss Sandy is running the place beautifully and the front office always greets you with a smile (Ms. Lisa and Ms. Tina). We miss this place terribly and our now 2nd grader is so strong in Math and Reading in addition to her social/emotional development at this stage because of the foundations from Bright Horizons that we cannot recommend this place enough.”

“We are so fond of La Petite! The principal Heidi and her team of Mary and Johanna make everything special for the kids! All the teachers are amazing and there’s great retention of them.”