Children at daycare

372 Child Daycare & Preschools in San Diego, California

Browse all 372 child daycare & preschools in San Diego, California. Compare options and find the right childcare for your family.

Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in San Diego

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

    4754 Sea Tern Court, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 14 children

    Montessori Child Development LLC receives consistently excellent reviews from parents who praise the caring, attentive staff and effective Montessori curriculum. Parents report significant improvements in their children's confidence, independence, academic skills, and social development. The school is highlighted for its welcoming environment, strong communication with families, and dedicated leadership.

    Caring and attentive staffeffective Montessori curriculumhe
  2. 2
    Little Angels Academy
    4.8 score
    5(20)

    3078 L Street, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 72 children

    Little Angels Academy receives perfect 5/5 ratings from all parents. Parents consistently praise the caring and attentive staff, smooth transitions for children of all ages, educational activities, and communication through their parent app. Children show strong development and look forward to attending.

    Loving and nurturing staffbilingual teachers availablesmooth transitions for infants and toddlerseducational activities (art
  3. 3

    4895 Saratoga Avenue, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 137 children

    Sacred Heart Academy Preschool in San Diego receives universally positive feedback from parents who praise the caring, dedicated staff and comprehensive curriculum that balances play-based learning with kindergarten readiness skills. Parents consistently highlight the school's effectiveness with potty training, social-emotional development, and strong teacher-parent communication through the Brightwheel app.

    Caring and dedicated teachersstrong kindergarten preparationplay-based learning approachpotty training success
  4. 4

    12285 B World Trade Drive, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 49 children

    Manna's Martial Arts is a highly-rated martial arts studio in San Diego with consistent 5/5 star reviews. Parents praise the quality instruction, strong emphasis on discipline and life skills, and community atmosphere that extends beyond martial arts training. Multiple families report long-term enrollment (8-13 years) and significant positive impacts on their children's confidence, self-defense abilities, and character development.

    Excellent instruction qualityemphasis on safety and respectpersonal attention to studentsflexible class scheduling with unlimited monthly classes
  5. 5

    3743 Front Street, San Diego, CA · Before or After School Daycare · Capacity: 95 children

    Parents consistently praise Fleur de Lis as an exceptional preschool that fosters individual growth, confidence, and a love of learning through a dedicated, play-based curriculum. Staff members are described as caring, professional, and genuinely invested in each child's cognitive, emotional, and physical development. The beautiful natural setting, diverse and welcoming community, and strong preparation for kindergarten are frequently highlighted.

    Individualized attention to each childwarm and caring staffdedicated curriculumbeautiful canyon setting with playgrounds
  6. 6

    1752 Via Las Cumbres, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 60 children

    Manchester Family Child Development Center receives universal 5-star ratings from parents who praise its caring, professional staff, safe and welcoming environment, and focus on child development and learning through play. Parents highlight excellent communication through daily apps and photos, strong parent community engagement, and successful preparation for kindergarten and school transitions. The center has a long-standing positive reputation in the San Diego community.

  7. 7

    9855 Erma Road Ste. 128, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 36 children

    Parents consistently praise Scripps Exploring Academy for exceptional childcare with attentive, caring staff who genuinely bond with children. Families report their children are happy, well-prepared for kindergarten, and experience smooth transitions. The facility is described as clean, welcoming, and homey with strong parent communication.

    Caring and attentive teachershappy childrensmooth transition to kindergartenacademic preparation (reading and writing)
  8. 8

    5075 Ruffin Road, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 90 children

    Chinese Bilingual Preschool receives consistently high praise from parents for its bilingual Mandarin-English curriculum, caring and patient teachers, and strong sense of community. Parents highlight the school's commitment to child development, flexible scheduling, and on-site prepared meals. Children show advanced academic preparation and develop lasting friendships.

    Bilingual Mandarin-English immersioncaring and patient teacherson-site fresh meals (breakfastlunch
  9. 9
    Wee Wisdom Preschool
    4.72 score
    5(13)

    8999 Activity Road, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 50 children

    Wee Wisdom Preschool receives universal 5-star ratings from parents who praise the caring, knowledgeable staff, clean facility, and developmentally appropriate curriculum. Parents highlight strong teacher-child relationships, innovative teaching methods including yoga and meditation, and children's enthusiasm for attending school.

    Caring and knowledgeable staffclean and well-organized facilityindividualized attention to each childdevelopmentally appropriate activities
  10. 10
    Al-Rribat Academy
    4.72 score
    4.9(20)

    7183-A Saranac Street, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 23 children

    AL-RRIBAT Academy appears to be an Islamic center (masjid) rather than a daycare facility. Reviews praise it as a welcoming community space with clean facilities, active programming including classes and events, and knowledgeable religious leadership. Parents describe feeling a strong sense of belonging and community support.

    Clean facilitieswelcoming and friendly communityactive programming (classeslectures

Top Rated

Highest rated daycares in San Diego based on parent reviews

Montessori Child Development LLC

5(20)

4754 Sea Tern Court, San Diego, CA

Montessori Child Development LLC receives consistently excellent reviews from parents who praise the caring, attentive staff and effective Montessori curriculum. Parents report significant improvements in their children's confidence, independence, academic skills, and social development. The school is highlighted for its welcoming environment, strong communication with families, and dedicated leadership.

Caring and attentive staffeffective Montessori curriculumhe

Little Angels Academy

5(20)

3078 L Street, San Diego, CA

Little Angels Academy receives perfect 5/5 ratings from all parents. Parents consistently praise the caring and attentive staff, smooth transitions for children of all ages, educational activities, and communication through their parent app. Children show strong development and look forward to attending.

Loving and nurturing staffbilingual teachers availablesmooth transitions for infants and toddlers

Sacred Heart Academy Preschool

5(20)

4895 Saratoga Avenue, San Diego, CA

Sacred Heart Academy Preschool in San Diego receives universally positive feedback from parents who praise the caring, dedicated staff and comprehensive curriculum that balances play-based learning with kindergarten readiness skills. Parents consistently highlight the school's effectiveness with potty training, social-emotional development, and strong teacher-parent communication through the Brightwheel app.

Caring and dedicated teachersstrong kindergarten preparationplay-based learning approach

Manna'S Martial Arts INC.

5(20)

12285 B World Trade Drive, San Diego, CA

Manna's Martial Arts is a highly-rated martial arts studio in San Diego with consistent 5/5 star reviews. Parents praise the quality instruction, strong emphasis on discipline and life skills, and community atmosphere that extends beyond martial arts training. Multiple families report long-term enrollment (8-13 years) and significant positive impacts on their children's confidence, self-defense abilities, and character development.

Excellent instruction qualityemphasis on safety and respectpersonal attention to students

Manchester Family Child Development Center

5(16)

1752 Via Las Cumbres, San Diego, CA

Manchester Family Child Development Center receives universal 5-star ratings from parents who praise its caring, professional staff, safe and welcoming environment, and focus on child development and learning through play. Parents highlight excellent communication through daily apps and photos, strong parent community engagement, and successful preparation for kindergarten and school transitions. The center has a long-standing positive reputation in the San Diego community.

Scripps Exploring Academy-Infant

5(14)

9855 Erma Road Ste. 128, San Diego, CA

Parents consistently praise Scripps Exploring Academy for exceptional childcare with attentive, caring staff who genuinely bond with children. Families report their children are happy, well-prepared for kindergarten, and experience smooth transitions. The facility is described as clean, welcoming, and homey with strong parent communication.

Caring and attentive teachershappy childrensmooth transition to kindergarten

Map

Child Daycare & Preschools in San Diego, California

There are 372 child daycare & preschools in San Diego, California, making up 88% of the 425 total childcare facilities in the city. Below you'll find a complete directory to help you compare and choose the right daycare for your child.

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

All Child Daycare & Preschools in San Diego

Showing 372 results

Pacific Beach Presbyterial / Infant Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.9

The reviews provided are for Pacific Beach Presbyterian Church, not the daycare center. No actual daycare reviews are available. The Google Rating shows 0 reviews for the daycare facility.

None mentioned - reviews are about the churchnot the daycare
Address
1675 Garnet, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 273-1320
Little Lamb Land Christian Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.9

Little Lamb Land Christian Preschool receives universal praise from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents consistently highlight the caring and qualified staff, strong curriculum that prepares children academically, and the school's nurturing Christian environment that provides peace of mind.

Caring and attentive staffstrong academic curriculumChristian/spiritual education
Address
4168 Market Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 527-4311
The Merry-Go-Around
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.9

The Merry-Go-Around receives unanimous 5-star reviews from parents who praise the dedicated staff, welcoming environment, and quality curriculum. Parents highlight the center's safety measures, transparency, and positive impact on their children's development and learning. The facility is NAEYC accredited and offers nutritious meals, parent engagement events, and individualized attention.

Caring and dedicated staffNAEYC accreditedstrong curriculum
Address
9175 Kearny Villa Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 536-1008
Normal Heights Children'S Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.9

NOTE: The reviews provided are for Normal Heights United Methodist Church, not a daycare center. The Google listing appears to be miscategorized. Reviews consistently praise the church as an inclusive, welcoming community with progressive values and strong community involvement.

Welcoming and inclusive environmentaffirming of LGBTQ+ individualsengaging pastoral leadership
Address
4650 Mansfield Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 284-9325
Pacific Beach Presbyterian Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.9

These reviews appear to be for the church itself rather than the preschool program. Reviews praise the welcoming community, pastor, worship services, and community involvement. No specific feedback about the daycare program was provided.

Welcoming communityenergetic pastorquality worship services
Address
1675 Garnet Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 273-1320
St Andrews By The Sea Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.9

St. Andrews by the Sea Preschool receives exceptional reviews from parents who praise the warm, professional staff and nurturing environment where children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Parents consistently highlight excellent communication, thoughtful curriculum balancing structured learning with creative play, and strong community building. The facility is highly recommended for families seeking quality early childhood education.

Warm and caring staffnurturing and safe environmentexcellent parent communication with daily updates and photos via Brightwheel app
Address
1050 Thomas Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 273-3023
The Merry-Go-Around/Infant
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.9

Parents consistently praise The Merry-Go-Round/Infant as an exceptional childcare facility with dedicated, caring staff and a strong educational curriculum. Multiple reviewers highlight the welcoming environment, transparent communication, safety measures, and NAEYC accreditation as reasons for their strong satisfaction and loyalty.

Caring and dedicated staffwelcoming environmentstrong curriculum
Address
9175 Kearny Villa Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 536-1008
Nha University Of Early Learning Bethel Campus
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Reviews appear to be for Bethel AME Church rather than the daycare center. Reviewers praise the church's welcoming community, spiritual environment, and community involvement. No actual daycare reviews were found.

Welcoming and friendly staffstrong community presencespiritual focus
Address
3085 K Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 693-4470
Adventure Days Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Adventure Days Preschool receives perfect 5-star ratings from parents who praise the caring, qualified teachers, strong faith-based curriculum, and supportive community environment. Parents consistently highlight excellent communication, organized administration led by director Jill, and special attention to individual student needs including emotional development and special medical conditions.

Dedicated and caring teachersfaith-based educationstrong communication with parents via SchoolStatus Connect App
Address
10881 Tierransanta Boluevard, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 560-5686
Carmel Mountain Pre-School
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Parents consistently praise Carmel Mountain Preschool for its nurturing, child-centered approach with highly dedicated teachers who help children thrive and develop confidence. The school offers rich, diverse programming including outdoor activities, organic meals, and specialized amenities like gardens, art studios, and animal care, creating a warm community environment where children are excited to attend.

Caring and attentive staffoutdoor and play-focused curric
Address
9510 Carmel Mountain Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 484-4877
Clairemont Emmanuel Schools
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Reviews praise Clairemont Emmanuel as a welcoming, Bible-focused church community with strong leadership and diverse programming. Parents highlight excellent childcare services, family-oriented atmosphere, and well-run children's programs like AWANA. The facility offers scenic Mission Bay views and fosters intergenerational community connection.

Welcoming and friendly staffBible-based teachingfamily-oriented environment
Address
2610 Galveston Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 276-4092
Congregation Beth Am Early Childhood Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8
Address
5050 Del Mar Heights Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 481-2893
Green Beans Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Green Beans Preschool receives consistently positive feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the nurturing, home-like environment, experienced staff led by owner Louise, play-based curriculum, and strong sense of community. Children reportedly thrive emotionally and developmentally, with many families enrolling multiple children and staying long-term.

Warm and caring staffplay-based learning approachindividual attention to children
Address
4153 First Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 945-2302
Kids' Care Club
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Parents consistently praise Kids' Care Club for its caring, dedicated staff, clean facilities, and strong educational curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten. Multiple families have enrolled multiple children over many years, citing excellent communication, nurturing environment, and well-rounded developmental support. The center is highly regarded for both academic achievement and social-emotional growth.

Caring and patient staffstrong academic curriculumchildren eager to attend
Address
10414 Craftsman Way, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 675-7000
Mira Mesa Presbyterian Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Parents consistently praise Mira Mesa Presbyterian Preschool for its caring and engaging staff who treat families like family. Children reportedly thrive academically and socially, with smooth transitions to elementary school. The facility is highly recommended by families who have enrolled multiple children.

Kind and caring teachersengaging learning environmentstrong academic foundation
Address
8081 Mira Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 578-2160
Murphy Canyon Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Murphy Canyon Preschool receives consistently excellent reviews from parents, with all ratings at 5/5. Parents praise the warm, caring teaching staff, effective Montessori-based curriculum, and the significant developmental progress their children make, particularly in social skills, confidence, and kindergarten readiness.

Warm and patient teachersstrong Montessori curriculumexcellent outdoor play space
Address
5150 Murphy Canyon Road, #105, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 279-5437
Adventure Days Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Adventure Days Preschool receives exclusively positive reviews from parents who praise the caring, qualified teachers and strong leadership. Parents highlight the faith-based curriculum, regular STEM activities, community involvement, and excellent parent-teacher communication as standout features. The school is noted for making children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn.

Dedicated and caring teachersfaith-based educationstrong leadership (Jill and Jackie)
Address
10881 Tierrasanta Boulevard, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 560-5686
Carmel Mountain School-Age Program
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Parents consistently praise Carmel Mountain Preschool for its holistic, play-based curriculum and dedicated staff who help children thrive and build confidence. The school is highly valued for its outdoor focus, organic food program, diverse facilities (garden, art studio, animals), and strong sense of community. All reviews are 5-star ratings reflecting very high satisfaction.

Attentive and caring teachersoutdoor and play-focused learningorganic/healthy meals
Address
9510 Carmel Mountain Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 484-4877
Children'S Growing Center-Infant-1st United Meth
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8
Address
2111 Camino Del Rio South, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 295-1915
Kids' Care Club-Infant
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Parents consistently praise Kids' Care Club Infant for its caring, patient staff, nurturing environment, and strong educational curriculum. Children show significant academic progress (reading, writing, math skills ahead of peers) and develop strong social-emotional skills. Multiple families have enrolled multiple children over many years, citing trust, safety, and genuine staff dedication.

Caring and patient teacherswarm welcoming environmentstrong academic curr
Address
10414 Craftsman Way, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 675-7000
The Vine Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.7

Parents consistently praise The Vine Learning Center for exceptional infant care, with teachers described as loving, attentive, and nurturing. The facility is noted for cleanliness, detailed daily communication through a mobile app, and strong support for child development. Parents report feeling confident and at ease leaving their children in this environment.

Caring and patient teachersexcellent communication and daily updates via appclean facility
Address
6705 Linda Vista Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 715-1720
The Vine Learning Center #2
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.7

The Vine Learning Center #2 receives consistently excellent feedback from parents of infants and toddlers. Parents praise the caring and attentive teachers, cleanliness, developmental support, and daily communication through the facility's app. The center is noted for staff consistency, individual attention to each child's needs, and creating a welcoming environment for families.

Caring and nurturing teachersClean facilityDaily photo and activity updates via app
Address
6705 Linda Vista Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 715-1720
The Vine Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.7

The Vine Learning Center receives consistently excellent feedback from parents, with all reviews rating 5/5 stars. Parents praise the caring and attentive staff, nurturing environment, strong communication through the Brightwheel app with daily photo updates, and positive developmental outcomes for their children.

Caring and patient staffstrong communication and daily photo/video updatesnurturing and safe environment
Address
2130 Ulric Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 974-1222
Congregation Beth Israel / Sid Rubin Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Congregation Beth Israel's Sid Rubin Preschool is consistently praised as a warm, welcoming Jewish community with exceptional staff and clergy. Parents highlight the strong musical programming, inclusive atmosphere, and child development professionals, though one reviewer noted it feels less personalized despite its quality. The facility is commended for fostering spiritual growth and community connection for families of all ages.

Warm and welcoming communityexcept
Address
9001 Towne Centre Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 900-2530
The French Montessori Preschool Of San Diego
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

The French Montessori Preschool of San Diego receives mostly positive reviews, with parents praising the bilingual and trilingual education, caring teachers, and supportive environment. However, one parent raised concerns about high teacher turnover and limited owner communication after enrollment.

Bilingual/trilingual instruction (EnglishSpanishFrench)
Address
4011 Ohio Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 501-3787
Abc Children'S Center At San Diego
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

ABC Children's Center receives consistently high praise from parents across all reviews. Parents highlight exceptional teacher care, strong communication through a family app, balanced academics and play-based learning, and smooth transitions for children from infancy through preschool. Families report their children are excited to attend daily and show significant growth in academic, social, emotional, and life skills.

Caring and attentive teachersexcellent parent
Address
12145 Alta Carmel Ct., #270, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 451-1663
College Ave Pre-School
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

College Ave Preschool receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from most parents, who praise the dedicated staff, experienced director Lara Blouin, secure facilities, and strong child development outcomes. However, one parent reported concerns about a teacher's behavior, including yelling and physical handling of their child.

Experienced and attentive directordedicated and caring staffchild development and learning
Address
4747 College Ave, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 583-7111
Die Rasselbande Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Die Rasselbande Preschool is a highly-regarded bilingual German-English preschool that uses a play-based learning approach. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, strong community atmosphere, and the school's effectiveness in teaching German immersion while fostering social-emotional development. Children reportedly develop confidence, peer interaction skills, and problem-solving abilities that benefit them in elementary school.

Play-based learning philosophyGerman language immersion with native speakerscaring and attentive teachers
Address
6747 Amherst Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 465-4420
Early Learners Children'S Academy
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Early Learners Children's Academy receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents, with the vast majority praising attentive and caring staff, clean facilities, strong security measures, and positive child development outcomes. Most parents report their children are happy, engaged, and look forward to attending. One negative review mentions poor owner communication and inspector violations.

Attentive and caring teachersclean and bright facilitysecure acces
Address
9585 Candida Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 530-8200
Grace Kids Christian Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Grace Kids Christian Preschool receives consistently high praise from parents who appreciate its warm, faith-based environment and caring staff. Parents report their children are happy, engaged, and developing well socially and academically. The facility is described as safe, secure, and clean with strong leadership.

loving and patient staffwarm welcoming environmentfaith-based curriculum
Address
2716 Madison Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 269-8080

Page 3 of 13· 372 results

Frequently asked questions

There are 372 child daycare & preschools daycares in San Diego, California, out of 425 total childcare facilities in the city. Browse our directory to compare options and find the right fit for your child.
When choosing a daycare in San Diego, 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
San Diego offers several types of childcare facilities:
  • Child Daycare & Preschools — 372 facilities
  • Headstart Programs — 29 facilities
  • Church Daycare — 7 facilities
  • Before or After School Daycare — 17 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 San Diego for current pricing.
Yes, daycare centers in San Diego 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.