Best Daycare Centers in Oakland, CA
Compare 158 daycare centers in Oakland. Average rating: 4.46/5 stars. See top 10 ranked daycares, compare by type, and find the right childcare for your family.
Oakland, California at a glance
- Daycares
- 158
- Avg rating
- 4.46/5
- Parent reviews
- 506
- Top rated (4.5+)
- 44
Oakland has 158 licensed daycares with 506 parent reviews averaging 4.46/5.44 are top-rated with 4.5+ stars — 55% of rated programs, well above average.The highest-rated options cluster around 94610 (avg 4.74 stars), while 94619 has the largest selection (24 programs).Start with our top-10 ranked list below or filter by philosophy.
Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in Oakland
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.
- 1Daisy Child Development Center4.8 score5(20)
5016 Daisy St, Oakland, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 71 children
Daisy Child Development Center receives universal 5-star praise from parents who highlight the caring leadership of owners Irfan and Fey, excellent staff, and well-rounded programming. Parents consistently commend the outdoor facilities, on-site farm animals, music and yoga classes, and the center's ability to help children transition into enjoying school. Children reportedly thrive socially and academically in a nurturing, community-oriented environment.
Caring and attentive owners and staffoutdoor play structures with shadeon-site animals (goatschickens - 2My Own Montessori School4.76 score5(16)
5723 Oak Grove Avenue, Oakland, CA · Before or After School Daycare · Capacity: 28 children
Parents consistently praise My Own Montessori for its authentic Montessori curriculum, caring and attentive teachers, and calm, nurturing environment that fosters independence and curiosity. Children develop strong social-emotional skills, confidence, and a genuine love of learning through carefully prepared activities and play. The school community is described as warm, welcoming, and supportive with strong parent involvement.
Montessori method implementationcaring and dedicated teacherswell-designed curriculum with creative activitiesbalanced approach to structured learning and free play - 3First Covenant Treehouse Preschool4.72 score4.9(20)
4000 Redwood Road, Oakland, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 107 children
First Covenant Treehouse Preschool receives unanimous 5/5 star ratings from parents who praise the caring, experienced teaching staff and strong academic curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten. Parents highlight the nurturing environment, emphasis on both learning and play, and positive social-emotional development their children experienced during their time at the school.
Caring and experienced teachersstrong teacher-student ratiosexcellent academic - 4Gan Mah Tov Preschool4.71 score5(12)
3778 Park Boulevard, Oakland, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 40 children
Parents consistently praise Gan Mah Tov as an excellent Jewish preschool with a warm, nurturing environment and highly attentive staff. Children are reported to be happy, engaged in diverse activities, and developing academically, socially, and emotionally. The inclusive community and responsive communication are frequently highlighted as major strengths.
Warm and caring teachersclean and safe facilitycreative environmenton-site outdoor playground - 5Gan Mah Tov Preschool4.71 score5(12)
3778 Park Blvd, Oakland, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 14 children
Gan Mah Tov Preschool is a highly regarded Jewish preschool in Oakland offering a warm, nurturing environment with engaged teachers and a strong community. Parents consistently praise the clean facilities, creative activities, outdoor space, and the director's involvement. Children are reported to be happy, engaged in diverse learning activities, and developing academically, socially, and emotionally.
Warm and caring staffDirector Melanie's involvement and kindnessClean and safe environmentCreative indoor and outdoor spaces - 6Bright Future Early Learning Center4.69 score5(11)
1515 Clay St., Ste 146, Oakland, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 32 children
Parents consistently praise Bright Future Early Learning Center for its caring, qualified staff, nurturing environment, and strong sense of community. Children are reported to thrive academically and socially, with notable development in confidence and school readiness. The center's non-profit model, provided meals, enrichment activities, and excellent communication are frequently highlighted as major strengths.
Caring and attentive staffstrong parent communityme - 7La Plazita Preschool II4.64 score5(9)
3625 Macarthur Blvd, Oakland, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 45 children
La Plazita Preschool II receives perfect 5-star ratings from parents who praise the Spanish immersion program, caring staff, and strong sense of community. Parents consistently report significant Spanish language development, excellent preparation for kindergarten, and a warm, welcoming environment where children feel happy and safe.
Spanish immersion and language developmentdedicated and caring teachersstrong sense of communityfamily events and quarterly parties - 8La Plazita Preschool III4.64 score5(9)
3616 - 3636 35th Ave., Oakland, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 110 children
La Plazita Preschool III receives perfect 5/5 ratings from parents who praise the Spanish immersion program, caring and creative teachers, and strong sense of community. Parents report their children are happy, safe, and well-prepared for kindergarten with fluent Spanish skills.
Spanish immersion curriculumfluent Spanish proficiency in childrencaring and nurturing teacherswelcoming community atmosphere - 9La Plazita Preschool IV4.64 score5(9)
3637 Magee Ave, Oakland, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 92 children
La Plazita Preschool IV receives unanimous 5-star ratings from parents who praise the Spanish immersion program, caring and creative teachers, and strong sense of community. Parents report significant Spanish language development, excellent kindergarten preparation, and engaging themed curriculum and special events.
Spanish immersion programfluent Spanish developmentcaring and nurturing teacherscreative curriculum with monthly themes - 10Broadway Children'S School Of Oakland INC.4.62 score5(8)
394 Adams Street, Oakland, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 42 children
Broadway Children's School of Oakland is a highly-regarded play-based preschool with consistently excellent reviews. Parents praise the caring, well-trained staff, nurturing environment, and flexible scheduling. Multiple families have enrolled multiple children and some commute from other cities to attend.
caring and attentive teachersplay-based learning curriculumstrong child development outcomesflexible scheduling options
Rating Distribution
Based on 80 daycares with Google ratings in Oakland
What Parents Value Most
Top qualities mentioned across 506 reviews, analyzed by AI
Daycare Types Compared
Average ratings by facility type in Oakland, based on parent reviews
Best Rated Neighborhoods
Oakland zip codes ranked by average daycare rating
| Zip Code | Daycares | Avg. Rating | Top Rated | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 94610 | 9 | 4.74 | 4 | |
| 94605 | 15 | 4.74 | 3 | |
| 94611 | 12 | 4.7 | 3 | |
| 94621 | 13 | 4.66 | 3 | |
| 94612 | 7 | 4.58 | 4 | |
| 94609 | 10 | 4.58 | 3 | |
| 94602 | 8 | 4.5 | 3 | |
| 94619 | 24 | 4.45 | 7 | |
| 94607 | 10 | 4.42 | 2 | |
| 94601 | 15 | 4.26 | 1 |
Facility Sizes
Capacity distribution of daycares in Oakland (12–275 children)
Small
up to 30 children
63
Medium
31–75 children
66
Large
76–150 children
23
Very Large
150+ children
6
Top Rated
Highest rated daycares in Oakland based on parent reviews
Daisy Child Development Center
5016 Daisy St, Oakland, CA
Daisy Child Development Center receives universal 5-star praise from parents who highlight the caring leadership of owners Irfan and Fey, excellent staff, and well-rounded programming. Parents consistently commend the outdoor facilities, on-site farm animals, music and yoga classes, and the center's ability to help children transition into enjoying school. Children reportedly thrive socially and academically in a nurturing, community-oriented environment.
My Own Montessori School
5723 Oak Grove Avenue, Oakland, CA
Parents consistently praise My Own Montessori for its authentic Montessori curriculum, caring and attentive teachers, and calm, nurturing environment that fosters independence and curiosity. Children develop strong social-emotional skills, confidence, and a genuine love of learning through carefully prepared activities and play. The school community is described as warm, welcoming, and supportive with strong parent involvement.
First Covenant Treehouse Preschool
4000 Redwood Road, Oakland, CA
First Covenant Treehouse Preschool receives unanimous 5/5 star ratings from parents who praise the caring, experienced teaching staff and strong academic curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten. Parents highlight the nurturing environment, emphasis on both learning and play, and positive social-emotional development their children experienced during their time at the school.
Gan Mah Tov Preschool
3778 Park Boulevard, Oakland, CA
Parents consistently praise Gan Mah Tov as an excellent Jewish preschool with a warm, nurturing environment and highly attentive staff. Children are reported to be happy, engaged in diverse activities, and developing academically, socially, and emotionally. The inclusive community and responsive communication are frequently highlighted as major strengths.
Gan Mah Tov Preschool
3778 Park Blvd, Oakland, CA
Gan Mah Tov Preschool is a highly regarded Jewish preschool in Oakland offering a warm, nurturing environment with engaged teachers and a strong community. Parents consistently praise the clean facilities, creative activities, outdoor space, and the director's involvement. Children are reported to be happy, engaged in diverse learning activities, and developing academically, socially, and emotionally.
Bright Future Early Learning Center
1515 Clay St., Ste 146, Oakland, CA
Parents consistently praise Bright Future Early Learning Center for its caring, qualified staff, nurturing environment, and strong sense of community. Children are reported to thrive academically and socially, with notable development in confidence and school readiness. The center's non-profit model, provided meals, enrichment activities, and excellent communication are frequently highlighted as major strengths.
Map
Daycare types in Oakland
Browse by type in Oakland
Daycare Centers in Oakland, California
Oakland offers a diverse landscape of childcare options, ranging from large centers to intimate home-based setups, ensuring parents can find a setting that fits their family's rhythm. The directory highlights a strong emphasis on community and safety, with parents frequently praising the supportive staff and welcoming environments. For those seeking high satisfaction, the 94610 zip code stands out as a neighborhood where quality and care consistently align.
Based on Google reviews, daycares in Oakland have an average rating of 4.46 out of 5 across 80 rated facilities, with 55% scoring 4.5 stars or higher. Church Daycare facilities lead with an average of 5 stars. Our analysis covers 506 parent reviews. Parents in Oakland most frequently praise daycares for strong parent community, safe environment, and supportive staff.
When choosing a daycare in Oakland, 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 Oakland
Showing 158 results
Parents highlight the engaging environment and dedicated staff, noting that children enjoy the fun and educational experiences. Feedback emphasizes the significant effort teachers put into daily activities and their positive interactions with students. One reviewer questions a lower overall rating, asserting that their daughter loves the program despite external scores.
- Address
- 12500 Campus Drive, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 436-2588
Recent positive feedback highlights improved leadership, outdoor-focused learning, and flexible hours, though one parent reports severe issues including high staff turnover, poor working conditions, and misleading facility tours.
- Address
- 4012 Maybelle Avenue, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 531-4800
- Address
- 291 - 10th Street, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 874-7759
Oak Center Cultural Center is highly regarded for its community involvement, volunteer opportunities, and quality childcare. Most reviewers praise the staff and the sense of community fostered at the center. One reviewer noted limited appeal beyond the park facilities.
- Address
- 1324 Adeline St., Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 891-0035
Parents praise the patient and caring teachers at this HeadStart center in Oakland. Most reviews are positive, though some note concerns about income eligibility requirements and limited referrals to other programs.
- Address
- 1155 - 35th Avenue, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 535-6112
Several parents highlight the school's nurturing environment, multilingual instruction, and reasonable tuition, noting that children adapt quickly and feel safe. Conversely, one former student recalls harsh disciplinary practices during their own childhood attendance, including physical altercation by the principal.
- Address
- 1011 7th Avenue, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 267-0788
The Lake School is highly regarded by most parents, with nearly all reviews praising the warm, caring staff, play-based emergent curriculum, and strong community. Two negative reviews cite disappointment and concerns about teacher engagement, though these are outliers among predominantly 5-star ratings.
- Address
- 304 Lester Avenue, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 839-6774
One parent highlights the supportive teachers who successfully assisted with potty training, while another criticizes the center's responsiveness and chaotic phone experience. Although the second reviewer noted a lack of immediate information, they expressed interest in visiting the facility to make a final assessment.
- Address
- 8501 International Boulevard, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 544-3821
One parent highlights the supportive staff and success with potty training, while another reports a negative phone experience characterized by unhelpful and inattentive reception. The latter reviewer notes the environment seemed hectic and lacked necessary information for assessment.
- Address
- 274 12th Street, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 238-3165
One parent describes a supportive environment with staff who take time with children, while another reviewer simply labels the school as awesome. A third parent notes it is great for education.
- Address
- 3695 High St., Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 434-7990
- Address
- 4143 Macarthur Blvd., Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 531-9130
These reviews appear to be about San Antonio Park rather than the Head Start daycare center. Reviewers consistently praise the park as a spacious neighborhood gem with excellent facilities including soccer fields, basketball courts, and play structures. The park is clean, well-maintained, and offers a welcoming community atmosphere.
- Address
- 1701 East 19th Street, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 535-5609
- Address
- 2563 E. 14th Street, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 535-5649
Unity Council Child Center receives mixed reviews. Parents praise the friendly staff, community resources, and helpful services, particularly for low-income families and people of color. However, some customers report poor customer service, including rudeness, unresponsiveness, and unresolved refund issues.
- Address
- 2615 E 15th St, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 535-2760
Wildwood Children's School receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from most parents, with praise for Director Anita Lee's leadership, dedicated teachers, play-based learning approach, and strong community engagement. However, one detailed 1-star review raises serious concerns about the owner's labor practices, fraudulent marketing claims, and a history of teacher turnover at a related school.
- Address
- 8 Wildwood Ave., Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 922-9197
- Address
- 5811 Racine St, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 848-0237
Starlite Child Development Center II receives highly polarized reviews. Positive reviewers praise the kind and attentive staff, safe environment, educational activities including Mandarin instruction, and children's happiness. Negative reviewers report serious concerns including alleged physical abuse by a teacher, inadequate care for children picked up late, and failure to address bullying.
- Address
- 246 - 14th Street, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 238-8809
- Address
- 3900 35th Avenue, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 531-3715
- Address
- 900 Fallon Street, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 464-3575
- Address
- 6686 Chabot Road, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 655-8151
- Address
- 2162 Mountain Blvd, Ste 300, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 336-7082
One parent describes the program as a developmentally appropriate, play-based environment focused on social-emotional growth, praising the teachers as kind and dedicated. Another reviewer notes that their child enjoyed the experience years ago.
- Address
- 5766 Broadway St., Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 655-0300
Kids Konnect receives consistently positive feedback from parents, with all reviews rating the center 5/5 stars. Parents praise the caring and communicative staff, balanced approach to learning and play, and welcoming environment where children thrive and enjoy attending.
- Address
- 8800 Fontaine St, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 305-7857
- Address
- 3415 Maple Ave, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 590-1871
- Address
- 3710 Dorisa Avenue, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 957-0570
- Address
- 1025 Eighty First Avenue, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 879-0197
- Address
- 401 Jones Avenue, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 633-0462
- Address
- 1010 East 15th Street, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 238-1306
- Address
- 2618 Grande Vista Avenue, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 879-0829
- Address
- 920 Campbell St, Oakland, CA
- Phone
- (510) 874-3333
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Frequently asked questions
- 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
- Child Daycare & Preschools — 124 facilities
- Headstart Programs — 14 facilities
- Church Daycare — 1 facilities
- Before or After School Daycare — 19 facilities