Children at daycare

67 Daycare Centers in Berkeley, California

Browse all 67 daycare centers in Berkeley, California. Compare options and find the right childcare for your family.

Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in Berkeley

Ranked using a weighted score that combines Google rating with the number of parent reviews β€” daycares with more reviews rank higher than those with a high rating but few reviews. Last updated: March 2026.

  1. 1

    1161 Sterling Avenue, Berkeley, CA Β· Before or After School Daycare Β· Capacity: 40 children

    Berkeley Hills Nursery School receives perfect 5/5 ratings from all reviewers. Parents consistently praise the warm, nurturing environment, experienced teachers, and play-based curriculum that supports children's social, verbal, and motor skill development. The school's intimate setting, outdoor spaces, and strong parent community are frequently highlighted as key strengths.

    Experienced and caring teacherswarm and nurturing environmentplay-based learning approach
  2. 2

    1140 Walnut St, Berkeley, CA Β· Child Daycare & Preschools Β· Capacity: 52 children

    Parents consistently praise Children's Community Center as an exceptional cooperative preschool with a play-based, anti-bias curriculum and strong sense of community. Teachers are highly experienced and skilled at supporting child development and conflict resolution, while the co-op model provides meaningful parent involvement and learning opportunities. The beautiful campus with extensive indoor and outdoor spaces creates an engaging, inclusive environment where children thrive.

    Play-based learning approachexperienced and passionate teachersstrong community and belongingparent involvement and workshops
  3. 3
    Mustard Seed Preschool
    4.72 score
    5(13)

    1640 Hopkins Street, Berkeley, CA Β· Child Daycare & Preschools Β· Capacity: 66 children

    Parents consistently praise Mustard Seed Preschool as an excellent, well-run program with caring staff and a strong sense of community. Children thrive in the structured, play-based environment with emphasis on social-emotional development, outdoor play, and fresh daily meals prepared by an onsite chef.

    Caring and communicative stafflow staff turnoverstrong director (Candace) and leadershipage-appropriate classroom structure
  4. 4

    1924 Cedar Street, Berkeley, CA Β· Child Daycare & Preschools Β· Capacity: 45 children

    The New School of Berkeley is highly praised by parents for its child-centered, play-based curriculum and exceptional teaching staff. Parents consistently report their children are happy, engaged, and thriving while developing strong social-emotional skills. The school is also valued for its convenient hours, after-school programs, community integration, and seamless transitions from preschool to elementary school.

    Play-based curriculumcaring and nurturing teachersoutdoor play emphasis (80-90% of day)extended hours (8am-6pm)
  5. 5

    1606 Bonita, Berkeley, CA Β· Child Daycare & Preschools Β· Capacity: 48 children

    The New School of Berkeley is highly praised by parents for its play-based, child-centered curriculum and nurturing teaching staff. Parents consistently highlight their children's happiness, social-emotional development, and smooth transitions to kindergarten. The school's extended hours, outdoor focus, community integration, and after-school program are particularly valued by working families.

    Play-based curriculumnurturing and caring teacherschild-centered philosophyextensive outdoor time (80-90% of day)
  6. 6

    2230-32 Jefferson Street, Berkeley, CA Β· Child Daycare & Preschools Β· Capacity: 32 children

    Congregation Beth Israel-Gan Shalom is a highly-rated Jewish community center in Berkeley with consistently positive reviews praising its warm, welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community. Parents and members highlight the leadership of Rabbi and Rebbitzen Cohen, vibrant social activities, and commitment to Jewish identity and charitable work. The facility features beautiful acoustics and hosts various events including services and concerts.

    Warm and welcoming communitykind and supportive leadershipfamily-centric environmentvibrant and active membership
  7. 7
    Beth El Nursery School
    4.59 score
    4.8(14)

    1301 Oxford Street, Berkeley, CA Β· Before or After School Daycare Β· Capacity: 74 children

    Beth El Nursery School is a synagogue-based preschool in Berkeley with consistently positive reviews praising its welcoming and warm community atmosphere. Parents appreciate the quality of its educational programs, including preschool, summer camp, and family education. The facility also hosts community events and meals that families enjoy.

    warm and welcoming atmosphereexcellent summer camp programsquality preschool and family educationtop-notch activities for all ages
  8. 8

    1227 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, CA Β· Before or After School Daycare Β· Capacity: 21 children

    Parents consistently praise Berkeley International Montessori School for its exceptional Montessori methodology, bilingual Japanese-English immersion program, and dedicated teaching staff. Children show rapid development in independence, academic skills, language acquisition, and social-emotional growth within a small, tight-knit community. The school maintains reasonable safety protocols and strong parent-teacher communication.

    Montessori teaching methodologyJapanese language immersionchild independence and confidence buildingacademic excellence (math
  9. 9

    941 The Alameda, Berkeley, CA Β· Child Daycare & Preschools Β· Capacity: 24 children

    Parents consistently praise Dandelion Nursery School as a magical, nurturing environment where children thrive emotionally and academically. The school is distinguished by highly skilled and caring teachers, a play-based curriculum, and a strong cooperative community model that builds lasting family connections.

    Caring and experienced teachersplay-based learning curriculumsafe and loving environmentbeautiful indoor and outdoor spaces
  10. 10

    1316 University Ave., Berkeley, CA Β· Child Daycare & Preschools Β· Capacity: 30 children

    Congregation Netivot Shalom's preschool is praised for its inclusive, welcoming community that celebrates diversity across age, race, ability, gender, and sexual orientation. Parents highlight the quality Jewish curriculum, beautiful facilities, consistent and caring staff with low turnover, and intentional social justice values. The community is described as participatory, egalitarian, and open-minded.

    Diverse and inclusive communityconsistent teachers with low turnoverbeautiful spacesage-appropriate Jewish curriculum

Top Rated

Highest rated daycares in Berkeley based on parent reviews

Berkeley Hills Nursery School

5(20)

1161 Sterling Avenue, Berkeley, CA

Berkeley Hills Nursery School receives perfect 5/5 ratings from all reviewers. Parents consistently praise the warm, nurturing environment, experienced teachers, and play-based curriculum that supports children's social, verbal, and motor skill development. The school's intimate setting, outdoor spaces, and strong parent community are frequently highlighted as key strengths.

Experienced and caring teacherswarm and nurturing environmentplay-based learning approach

Childrens Community Center

5(15)

1140 Walnut St, Berkeley, CA

Parents consistently praise Children's Community Center as an exceptional cooperative preschool with a play-based, anti-bias curriculum and strong sense of community. Teachers are highly experienced and skilled at supporting child development and conflict resolution, while the co-op model provides meaningful parent involvement and learning opportunities. The beautiful campus with extensive indoor and outdoor spaces creates an engaging, inclusive environment where children thrive.

Play-based learning approachexperienced and passionate teachersstrong community and belonging

Mustard Seed Preschool

5(13)

1640 Hopkins Street, Berkeley, CA

Parents consistently praise Mustard Seed Preschool as an excellent, well-run program with caring staff and a strong sense of community. Children thrive in the structured, play-based environment with emphasis on social-emotional development, outdoor play, and fresh daily meals prepared by an onsite chef.

Caring and communicative stafflow staff turnoverstrong director (Candace) and leadership

The New School Of Berkeley-Schoolage

5(10)

1924 Cedar Street, Berkeley, CA

The New School of Berkeley is highly praised by parents for its child-centered, play-based curriculum and exceptional teaching staff. Parents consistently report their children are happy, engaged, and thriving while developing strong social-emotional skills. The school is also valued for its convenient hours, after-school programs, community integration, and seamless transitions from preschool to elementary school.

Play-based curriculumcaring and nurturing teachersoutdoor play emphasis (80-90% of day)

The New School Of Berkeley

5(10)

1606 Bonita, Berkeley, CA

The New School of Berkeley is highly praised by parents for its play-based, child-centered curriculum and nurturing teaching staff. Parents consistently highlight their children's happiness, social-emotional development, and smooth transitions to kindergarten. The school's extended hours, outdoor focus, community integration, and after-school program are particularly valued by working families.

Play-based curriculumnurturing and caring teacherschild-centered philosophy

Congregation Beth Israel-Gan Shalom

4.8(16)

2230-32 Jefferson Street, Berkeley, CA

Congregation Beth Israel-Gan Shalom is a highly-rated Jewish community center in Berkeley with consistently positive reviews praising its warm, welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community. Parents and members highlight the leadership of Rabbi and Rebbitzen Cohen, vibrant social activities, and commitment to Jewish identity and charitable work. The facility features beautiful acoustics and hosts various events including services and concerts.

Warm and welcoming communitykind and supportive leadershipfamily-centric environment

Map

Daycare Centers in Berkeley, California

There are 67 daycare centers in Berkeley, California. Below you'll find a complete directory to help you compare and choose the right daycare for your child.

When choosing a daycare in Berkeley, consider visiting facilities in person, checking their licensing status, and asking about staff-to-child ratios, daily routines, and safety policies.

All Daycare Centers in Berkeley

Showing 67 results

The Monteverde School
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
2727 College Ave, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 848-3313
Mustard Seed Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Parents consistently praise Mustard Seed Preschool as an excellent, well-run program with caring staff and a strong sense of community. Children thrive in the structured, play-based environment with emphasis on social-emotional development, outdoor play, and fresh daily meals prepared by an onsite chef.

Caring and communicative stafflow staff turnoverstrong director (Candace) and leadership
Address
1640 Hopkins Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 527-6627
Berkeley International Montessori School
Before or After School Daycare
5

Parents consistently praise Berkeley International Montessori School for its exceptional Montessori methodology, bilingual Japanese-English immersion program, and dedicated teaching staff. Children show rapid development in independence, academic skills, language acquisition, and social-emotional growth within a small, tight-knit community. The school maintains reasonable safety protocols and strong parent-teacher communication.

Montessori teaching methodologyJapanese language immersionchild independence and confidence building
Address
1227 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 838-1815
Busd - King Child Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1939 Ward Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 644-6358
Cedar Creek Montessori School
Before or After School Daycare
5

Cedar Creek Montessori School receives unanimous 5-star reviews from parents who praise the experienced, caring teaching staff and the Montessori approach to early childhood education. Parents highlight their children's development of independence, confidence, and social skills, as well as strong preparation for kindergarten. Families describe feeling supported and part of a warm community throughout their time at the school.

Experienced and dedicated teacherswarm and welcoming environmentMontessori approach fostering independence and curiosity
Address
1600 Sacramento St., Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 525-1377
Centro Vida Bilingual Childcare Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1000 Camelia Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 525-1463
Dandelion Nursery School INC
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Parents consistently praise Dandelion Nursery School as a magical, nurturing environment where children thrive emotionally and academically. The school is distinguished by highly skilled and caring teachers, a play-based curriculum, and a strong cooperative community model that builds lasting family connections.

Caring and experienced teachersplay-based learning curriculumsafe and loving environment
Address
941 The Alameda, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 526-1735
Ephesian Children'S Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1907 Harmon Avenue, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 653-2984
Berkeley Hills Nursery School
Before or After School Daycare
5

Berkeley Hills Nursery School receives perfect 5/5 ratings from all reviewers. Parents consistently praise the warm, nurturing environment, experienced teachers, and play-based curriculum that supports children's social, verbal, and motor skill development. The school's intimate setting, outdoor spaces, and strong parent community are frequently highlighted as key strengths.

Experienced and caring teacherswarm and nurturing environmentplay-based learning approach
Address
1161 Sterling Avenue, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 849-1216
Berkeley Ymca Head Start - South Ymca
Headstart Programs
5
Address
2901 California Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 848-9092
Busd - Franklin Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1460 8th Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 644-4533
Childrens Community Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Parents consistently praise Children's Community Center as an exceptional cooperative preschool with a play-based, anti-bias curriculum and strong sense of community. Teachers are highly experienced and skilled at supporting child development and conflict resolution, while the co-op model provides meaningful parent involvement and learning opportunities. The beautiful campus with extensive indoor and outdoor spaces creates an engaging, inclusive environment where children thrive.

Play-based learning approachexperienced and passionate teachersstrong community and belonging
Address
1140 Walnut St, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 526-9634
Congregation Netivot Shalom
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Congregation Netivot Shalom's preschool is praised for its inclusive, welcoming community that celebrates diversity across age, race, ability, gender, and sexual orientation. Parents highlight the quality Jewish curriculum, beautiful facilities, consistent and caring staff with low turnover, and intentional social justice values. The community is described as participatory, egalitarian, and open-minded.

Diverse and inclusive communityconsistent teachers with low turnoverbeautiful spaces
Address
1316 University Ave., Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 549-9447
Cornerstone Children'S Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
2407 Dana Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 280-6126
Little Beans Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
2117 Acton Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 649-1751
Hearts Leap Icri Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
2638 College Avenue, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 549-1422
The New School Of Berkeley-Schoolage
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

The New School of Berkeley is highly praised by parents for its child-centered, play-based curriculum and exceptional teaching staff. Parents consistently report their children are happy, engaged, and thriving while developing strong social-emotional skills. The school is also valued for its convenient hours, after-school programs, community integration, and seamless transitions from preschool to elementary school.

Play-based curriculumcaring and nurturing teachersoutdoor play emphasis (80-90% of day)
Address
1924 Cedar Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 548-9165
Mi Mundo Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Mi Mundo Preschool in Berkeley receives consistently high praise from parents. Parents highlight warm, dedicated teachers, a strong bilingual Spanish immersion program, creative art projects, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Children reportedly adjust well, show significant language development, and enjoy attending daily.

Warm and welcoming teachersSpanish language instruction with noticeable vocabulary growthcreative art projects and activities
Address
1866 Alcatraz Ave, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 395-4614
Mulberry School (The)
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
207 Alvarado Road, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 540-0732
The New School Of Berkeley
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

The New School of Berkeley is highly praised by parents for its play-based, child-centered curriculum and nurturing teaching staff. Parents consistently highlight their children's happiness, social-emotional development, and smooth transitions to kindergarten. The school's extended hours, outdoor focus, community integration, and after-school program are particularly valued by working families.

Play-based curriculumnurturing and caring teacherschild-centered philosophy
Address
1606 Bonita, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 548-9165
Hearts Leap Beginnings
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
2640 College Ave, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 529-4694
Sunshine Preschool (Ceid)
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1035 Grayson St, Rm #8, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 848-4800
Step One School
Before or After School Daycare
5

Step One School receives unanimous 5-star praise from parents who highlight its nurturing, play-based approach and caring staff. Parents report significant positive developmental changes in their children, including increased confidence, emotional growth, and love of learning. The school is consistently described as a special, magical environment where children thrive academically and socially.

Loving and caring teachersplay-based curriculumfocus on social-emotio
Address
499 Spruce Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 527-9021
Woolly Mammoth Childcare & Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1484 University Ave, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 548-4779
Ucb - Haste Street Child Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
2339 Haste Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 642-6658
Beth El Nursery School
Before or After School Daycare
4.8

Beth El Nursery School is a synagogue-based preschool in Berkeley with consistently positive reviews praising its welcoming and warm community atmosphere. Parents appreciate the quality of its educational programs, including preschool, summer camp, and family education. The facility also hosts community events and meals that families enjoy.

warm and welcoming atmosphereexcellent summer camp programsquality preschool and family education
Address
1301 Oxford Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 848-9428
Congregation Beth Israel-Gan Shalom
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Congregation Beth Israel-Gan Shalom is a highly-rated Jewish community center in Berkeley with consistently positive reviews praising its warm, welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community. Parents and members highlight the leadership of Rabbi and Rebbitzen Cohen, vibrant social activities, and commitment to Jewish identity and charitable work. The facility features beautiful acoustics and hosts various events including services and concerts.

Warm and welcoming communitykind and supportive leadershipfamily-centric environment
Address
2230-32 Jefferson Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 848-3298
Via Nova Children'S School
Before or After School Daycare
4.6

Via Nova Children's School is highly regarded by parents as a warm, professional daycare with experienced, caring teachers and strong leadership. Parents consistently praise the outdoor space, creative programming, and the school's focus on child development and socio-emotional learning. The facility is described as balancing a cozy, community-oriented environment with reliable, well-organized operations.

Experienced and loving teachersoutdoor play spacebilingual programming
Address
3032 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 848-6687
Hearts Leap North
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5
Address
2220 Cedar Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 665-4200
Ecole Bilingue De Berkeley Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.4

Γ‰cole Bilingue de Berkeley Preschool receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with parents praising the quality of teaching staff, bilingual French immersion program, small class sizes, and nurturing community environment. Parents report their children develop strong French language skills and emotional intelligence while forming lasting friendships. The school serves a diverse, international student body and maintains consistent quality across preschool through middle schoo

Address
2830 Tenth St., Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 549-3867

Page 1 of 3Β· 67 results

Frequently asked questions

There are 67 all daycares in Berkeley, California. Browse our directory to compare options and find the right fit for your child.
When choosing a daycare in Berkeley, consider visiting facilities in person and checking:
  • Licensing status with California's regulatory agency
  • Staff-to-child ratios (requirements vary by age group in California)
  • Safety measures and cleanliness
  • Daily routines and educational curriculum
  • Parent reviews and ratings
  • Location and hours that fit your schedule
Berkeley offers several types of childcare facilities:
  • Child Daycare & Preschools β€” 45 facilities
  • Headstart Programs β€” 7 facilities
  • Before or After School Daycare β€” 15 facilities
Each type serves different needs β€” center-based facilities typically offer structured programs, while head start programs are federally funded for low-income families.
Daycare costs in California typically range from $200 to $400 per week for full-time care, depending on the child's age, facility type, and location within the state. Infant care tends to be more expensive due to lower staff-to-child ratio requirements. Contact individual facilities in Berkeley for current pricing.
Yes, daycare centers in Berkeley must be licensed by California's childcare licensing agency. Licensed facilities are required to meet standards for safety, health, staff qualifications, and staff-to-child ratios. You can verify a facility's license status through your state's licensing database.