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 — 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 · Before or After School Daycare · 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 · Child Daycare & Preschools · 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 · Child Daycare & Preschools · 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 · Child Daycare & Preschools · 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 · Child Daycare & Preschools · 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 · Child Daycare & Preschools · 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 · Before or After School Daycare · 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 · Before or After School Daycare · 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 · Child Daycare & Preschools · 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 · Child Daycare & Preschools · 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

Browse by type in Berkeley

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

Berkeley Ymca Head Start - West
Headstart Programs
4.4
Address
2009 10th Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 848-9092
Ucb - Clark Kerr Campus Children'S Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.4

The reviews provided do not appear to be for a daycare center. Instead, they are reviews of Clark Kerr Campus, a UC Berkeley residence hall for students. The reviews consistently praise the facility's spacious rooms, excellent amenities, and community atmosphere.

spacious roomsextensive amenities (pooltrack
Address
2900 Dwight Way, Bldg. #5, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 643-5527
Ucb - Clark Kerr Campus Childrens Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.4

These reviews appear to be mismatched to this daycare listing, as they describe UC Berkeley student residence halls rather than a children's center. Based on the available reviews, no relevant information about the daycare's quality, staff, curriculum, or child care services could be assessed.

Unable to determine based on submitted reviews
Address
2900 Dwight Way, Bldg. #5, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 642-0582
Child Education Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3
Address
2112 Browning Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 548-1414
Progressive Christian Childrens Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3
Address
1728 Alcatraz Ave., Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 654-6686
Nia House Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3

Parents consistently praise Nia House Learning Center as an exceptional Montessori-based preschool in Berkeley. They highlight the thoughtful physical environment, highly skilled teachers, strong academic and developmental outcomes, and a warm, supportive parent community. Multiple families report transformative experiences for their children and deep satisfaction with the school.

Montessori approachskilled and knowledgeable teachersbeautiful physical environment
Address
2234 9th Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 845-6099
Jewish Community Ctr Of The East Bay-Berkeley
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3

Parents consistently praise the Jewish Community Center's preschool program for its loving, empathetic, and professional staff who create a welcoming environment for all. The facility offers excellent programming rooted in Jewish culture and community, with strong emphasis on Hebrew language, Jewish traditions, and fostering a sense of belonging across all ages.

Caring and respectful teacherswelcoming community atmosphereprofessional staff
Address
1414 Walnut Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 848-0237
Duck'S Nest - Berkeley
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
1411 - 4th Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 527-2331
Little Elephant Montessori INC.
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
2008 Mcgee Ave, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 597-1963
Through The Looking Glass Early Head Start
Headstart Programs
3.8
Address
3075 Adeline Avenue, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 393-6824
Golden Gate Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.6

Golden Gate Learning Center receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents, with 9 five-star reviews praising the caring staff, engaging activities, and developmental support. One parent noted concerns about outdoor time access for infants and frequent illness transmission in the youngest classroom.

Caring and responsive leadershipage-appropriate activitiesdaily outdoor playtime
Address
1450 Sixth St, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 366-9260
La Academia De Bahia
Child Daycare & Preschools
3
Address
1718-8th Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 524-7300
Bahia School Age Program
Child Daycare & Preschools
3
Address
1718 - 8th Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 524-7300
Ucb - Harold E. Jones Child Study Ctr/Childcare
Child Daycare & Preschools
2.8
Address
2425 Atherton Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 643-5449
Montessori Family School
Before or After School Daycare
Address
1850 Scenic Avenue, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 848-2322
American International Montessori School
Before or After School Daycare
Address
3339 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 868-1815
Busd - Hopkins Street
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
1810 Hopkins Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 644-8939
Kids In Motion
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
2955 Claremont Avenue, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 549-9247
Global Montessori International School
Before or After School Daycare
Address
2830 - 9th St, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 845-6969
Gay Austin School (The)
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
1611 Hopkins Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 526-2815
Aquatic Park School
Before or After School Daycare
Address
830 Heinz Avenue, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 843-2273
Berkeley Montessori School
Before or After School Daycare
Address
2030 Francisco Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 849-8340
Berkeley Rose School
Before or After School Daycare
Address
2138 Cedar St, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 859-7679
Berkeley Ymca Head Start - Ocean View
Headstart Programs
Address
1422 San Pablo Avenue, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 559-2090
Bright Horizons At Bayer
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
921 Parker Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 649-1893
Claremont Day Nurseries INC
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
2845 Woolsey Avenue, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 654-2511
Garden Day Montessori School
Before or After School Daycare
Address
1332 Parker Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 649-9110
Griffin Nursery School
Before or After School Daycare
Address
2410 Prince Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 845-2025
Berkeley Ymca Head Start - West Ymca
Headstart Programs
Address
2009 Tenth Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 848-9092
Model School Comprehensive Humanistic Learning Ctr
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
2330 Prince Street, Berkeley, CA
Phone
(510) 549-2711

Page 2 of 3· 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 — 45 facilities
  • Headstart Programs — 7 facilities
  • Before or After School Daycare — 15 facilities
Each type serves different needs — 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.