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

Seaside Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.1

Seaside Preschool receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from current parents, who praise the warm environment, skilled and caring staff, and balanced approach to learning and play. One prospective parent reported difficulty accessing enrollment information due to a long waiting list. The daycare appears to excel at supporting children's social and emotional development in a welcoming setting.

Patient and nurturing teacherswarm and welcoming environmentthoughtfully designed space
Address
1201 Turquoise Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 581-0725
Bay Point State Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
2850 Wasp Way, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 221-2936
Col. Salomon Child Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
1789 State Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 344-6325
Nha-Stem Institute For Early Learning
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
808 West Cedar, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 239-1985
San Diego City College Child Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
1601 B Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 388-3205
Panda Bear Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
4998 Via Valarta, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 576-2327
S.D. City College Child Development Infant Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
1601 B Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 388-3205
Montessori School Of Kearny Mesa
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.9

Montessori School of Kearny Mesa receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from most parents, who praise the caring staff, strong Montessori curriculum, and child development outcomes. However, two concerning reviews allege serious safety and supervision issues, including physical abuse and inadequate monitoring of children.

Caring and welcoming staffexperienced teachers with long tenurestrong child development and learning outcomes
Address
3411 Sandrock Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 505-0332
Playhouse Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.9

Playhouse Preschool receives mostly positive feedback, with parents praising the staff's warmth and care, noting significant developmental progress in their children. However, one parent reported a negative experience, citing dishonesty, unreliability, and unprofessionalism, though this appears to be an isolated complaint against a specific location.

friendly and caring staffchildren are happystaff treats families like family
Address
6545 Balboa Avenue Ste. B, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 279-2009
The Kid'S Bay
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.9

THE KID'S BAY receives mixed reviews with an average rating of 3.9/5. Most parents praise the caring teachers, quality curriculum, and positive child development experiences, though some parents raised concerns about teacher responsiveness to behavioral issues and staff consistency.

caring and attentive teachersindividualized development plansclean facility
Address
13770 Carmel Valley Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 240-6710
Dot To Dot
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.9

Dot to Dot is a highly-rated center-based daycare in San Diego with exceptional focus on social-emotional development, curiosity, and individual child growth. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, Reggio Emilia-inspired curriculum, hands-on learning, and outstanding food program. All recent reviews are 5-star ratings reflecting strong parent satisfaction.

Caring and responsive owner and staffpassionate teachershands-on learning and exploration
Address
12160 Alta Carmel Court, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 485-1978
Montessori School Of Kearny Mesa - Infant
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.9

Most parents praise Montessori School of Kearny Mesa for its caring, experienced staff, strong Montessori philosophy implementation, and child development outcomes. However, two parents reported serious safety and supervision concerns, including alleged physical abuse and inadequate attention to children's needs.

Warm and caring staff with long tenureexperienced directorstrong Montessori curriculum
Address
3411 Sandrock Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 505-0332
The Kid'S Bay - Infant
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.9

The Kid's Bay Infant center in San Diego receives mixed reviews. Three parents praised the caring teachers, individual attention, cleanliness, and positive child development experiences. Two parents reported concerns about teacher responsiveness to safety issues and staff turnover affecting their children's experience.

caring and attentive teachersindividual development plansclean facility
Address
13770 Carmel Valley Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 240-6710
Copley-Price Family Ymca Preschool Child Care
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.8

Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, praising the facility's cleanliness, friendly staff, and quality amenities. Parents appreciate the well-maintained gym equipment, pools, and family-friendly atmosphere. The location is noted as one of the best among YMCA branches.

Clean facilityfriendly and helpful staffmodern equipment
Address
4300 El Cajon Boulevard, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 280-9622
Crown Point Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.8

Crown Point Junior Music Academy is a highly-rated magnet school serving Pre-K through 5th grade with an exceptional music program. Parents consistently praise the dedicated teachers, caring administration, strong Suzuki violin curriculum, and welcoming community atmosphere. The school recently completed construction renovations and offers multiple after-school enrichment programs.

Award-winning music program with Suzuki violin instructiondedicated and caring teachersprincipal who knows students by name
Address
4033 Ingraham Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 987-5500
Associated Students Child Care Center Infant Ctr
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.8
Address
5500 Campanile Dr, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 594-7428
Associated Students Child Care Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.8
Address
5500 Campanile Dr, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 594-7428
Mission Nazarene Preschool-Infant
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.7
Address
4750 Mission Gorge Place, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 287-4900
Mission Nazarene Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.7
Address
4750 Mission Gorge Place, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 287-4900
Klassic Kids Day Care - Sandburg Children Ctr.
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.7
Address
11230 Avenida Del Gato, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 265-7798
Klassic Kids Hardy
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.5
Address
5420 Montezuma Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 534-2845
Klassic Kids Day Care- Hage Elementary
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.5
Address
9750 Galvin Ave., San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 265-9552
Klassic Kids Day Care - Jerabek
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.5
Address
10050 Avenida Magnifica, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 265-9971
Rising Star Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.4

Rising Star Preschool San Diego receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents who praise the attentive, knowledgeable staff and director Ms. Rachelle for accommodating individual child needs, supporting developmental milestones, and being military-family friendly. However, two negative reviews reference concerns about a specific staff member's behavior and broader management issues at other Rising Star locations.

Caring and knowledgeable staffaccommodating to military families and special needsindividual learning tailored to each child
Address
3040 Fairmount Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 213-9356
Carmel Valley Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.3
Address
13340 Hayford Way, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 481-7933
Euclid Children'S Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.3
Address
4141 Menlo Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 344-5631
Ees-Child Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
3
Address
6960 Linda Vista Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 278-2457
Monterey Ridge Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
17117 4s Ranch Parkway, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 487-2628
Mt. Erie Christian Academy Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
530 South 47th Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 262-6069
Little Sprouts Academy
Child Daycare & Preschools

Little Sprouts Academy receives consistently positive feedback from parents, with all reviewers giving 5-star ratings. Parents praise the caring and dedicated teachers, engaging curriculum, and safe, clean facility. Children reportedly enjoy attending and parents feel confident their kids are well-cared for and prepared for kindergarten.

Dedicated and caring teachersengaging activities and curriculumorganic meals
Address
6690 Mission Gorge Rd., #R/S/T/Q, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 280-6690

Page 5 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.