
Compare 64 child daycare & preschools in Sarasota. Average rating: 4.32/5 stars. See top 10 ranked daycares, compare by type, and find the right childcare for your family.
Sarasota has 64 licensed child daycare & preschools with 681 parent reviews averaging 4.32/5.34 are top-rated with 4.5+ stars — 53% of rated programs, well above average.The highest-rated options cluster around the 34231 zip code, averaging 4.67 stars across 12 programs.Start with our top-10 ranked list below or filter by philosophy.
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.
4672 Mcintosh Lane, Sarasota, FL · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 45 children
Capokids receives universal 5/5 star ratings from parents who praise the caring staff, family-like environment, and unique capoeira-based program. Parents consistently report their children love attending, show increased confidence, and develop strong friendships while learning Brazilian culture and physical activity alongside academics.
800 Mcintosh Road, Sarasota, FL · Church Daycare · Capacity: 44 children
Ascension Evangelical Lutheran Preschool is a religious facility in Sarasota, Florida, with a 4.9/5 Google rating based on parent reviews. Parents consistently praise the Bible-based curriculum, welcoming and family-oriented community, and caring staff. The facility operates as part of a larger church and school system with strong Christian values emphasized throughout.
2935 E. Hillview St., Sarasota, FL · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 32 children
Bright Start Child Development Center in Sarasota receives consistently excellent reviews with parents praising the caring, attentive staff led by Ms. Agata. Parents highlight the warm environment, strong communication, cleanliness, and structured curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten. Multiple families note significant improvements in their children's development and emotional well-being after switching from other daycares.
5615 Midnight Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL · Church Daycare · Capacity: 45 children
St. Boniface Preschool in Sarasota is a religious facility with a 4.8/5 Google rating. However, the recent reviews provided are not about the daycare itself, but rather about candlelight concert events held at the facility. These concert reviews consistently praise the music quality, venue atmosphere, and overall experience.
2240 Proctor Road, Sarasota, FL · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 80 children
CapoKids is a highly-rated preschool and VPK program in Sarasota that combines traditional curriculum with capoeira martial arts, yoga, and cultural activities. Parents consistently praise the staff's dedication, the program's effectiveness in building children's confidence and social skills, and the unique blend of physical activity with academics. The school creates a welcoming, family-like environment where children thrive both emotionally and academically.
374 Scott Ave, Sarasota, FL · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 104 children
Parents consistently praise Little Peoples Place for exceptional staff care, educational focus, and family-like environment. The owner, Ms. Debbie, and her team are described as loving, nurturing educators who treat children as individuals and go above and beyond expectations. Multiple families have returned or recommended the facility based on their positive experiences.
3813 Alden Way, Sarasota, FL · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 42 children
Angels Child Development Center in Sarasota receives consistently excellent feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the professional, caring staff, welcoming environment, and strong child development outcomes, with many noting their children are happy and eager to attend.
5651 Honore Ave, Sarasota, FL · Church Daycare · Capacity: 100 children
Good Shepherd Lutheran School receives uniformly positive feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the caring, creative teachers, strong kindergarten preparation, family events, and safe learning environment. Many parents report their children look forward to attending and have enrolled multiple children at the facility.
4875 Swift Rd, Sarasota, FL · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 75 children
Wooden Shoes Child Care Center in Sarasota receives consistently excellent feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the caring and attentive staff, strong owner involvement, engaging curriculum, and clean facility that has positively impacted their children's development and happiness.
2500 10th St, Sarasota, FL · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 73 children
The Renaissance Preschool in Sarasota receives consistently positive feedback from parents, with all reviews rating the facility 5/5 stars. Parents praise the attentive and caring staff, clean environment, structured curriculum with hands-on learning, and strong communication from leadership. Children show measurable academic and social development, with parents reporting high satisfaction and willingness to recommend the center.
Based on 64 daycares with Google ratings in Sarasota
Top qualities mentioned across 681 reviews, analyzed by AI
Average ratings by facility type in Sarasota, based on parent reviews
Sarasota zip codes ranked by average daycare rating
| Zip Code | Daycares | Avg. Rating | Top Rated | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 34231 | 12 | 4.67 | 6 | |
| 34239 | 8 | 4.61 | 5 | |
| 34232 | 7 | 4.59 | 5 | |
| 34243 | 7 | 4.32 | 2 | |
| 34233 | 7 | 4.28 | 4 | |
| 34237 | 12 | 3.98 | 2 | |
| 34234 | 11 | 3.81 | 1 | |
| 34236 | 6 | 3.63 | 0 |
Capacity distribution of daycares in Sarasota (15–170 children)
Small
up to 30 children
11
Medium
31–75 children
44
Large
76–150 children
24
Very Large
150+ children
5
Highest rated daycares in Sarasota based on parent reviews
4672 Mcintosh Lane, Sarasota, FL
Capokids receives universal 5/5 star ratings from parents who praise the caring staff, family-like environment, and unique capoeira-based program. Parents consistently report their children love attending, show increased confidence, and develop strong friendships while learning Brazilian culture and physical activity alongside academics.
2935 E. Hillview St., Sarasota, FL
Bright Start Child Development Center in Sarasota receives consistently excellent reviews with parents praising the caring, attentive staff led by Ms. Agata. Parents highlight the warm environment, strong communication, cleanliness, and structured curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten. Multiple families note significant improvements in their children's development and emotional well-being after switching from other daycares.
2240 Proctor Road, Sarasota, FL
CapoKids is a highly-rated preschool and VPK program in Sarasota that combines traditional curriculum with capoeira martial arts, yoga, and cultural activities. Parents consistently praise the staff's dedication, the program's effectiveness in building children's confidence and social skills, and the unique blend of physical activity with academics. The school creates a welcoming, family-like environment where children thrive both emotionally and academically.
374 Scott Ave, Sarasota, FL
Parents consistently praise Little Peoples Place for exceptional staff care, educational focus, and family-like environment. The owner, Ms. Debbie, and her team are described as loving, nurturing educators who treat children as individuals and go above and beyond expectations. Multiple families have returned or recommended the facility based on their positive experiences.
3813 Alden Way, Sarasota, FL
Angels Child Development Center in Sarasota receives consistently excellent feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the professional, caring staff, welcoming environment, and strong child development outcomes, with many noting their children are happy and eager to attend.
4875 Swift Rd, Sarasota, FL
Wooden Shoes Child Care Center in Sarasota receives consistently excellent feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the caring and attentive staff, strong owner involvement, engaging curriculum, and clean facility that has positively impacted their children's development and happiness.
Sarasota offers 64 childcare and preschool options, giving families plenty of choices for their children's early education. Parents frequently highlight clean facilities, safe environments, and the excitement children feel about attending. For those seeking the highest satisfaction, the 34235 zip code stands out with an average rating of 4.67 stars across four local facilities.
Based on Google reviews, daycares in Sarasota have an average rating of 4.32 out of 5 across 64 rated facilities, with 53% scoring 4.5 stars or higher. Church Daycare facilities lead with an average of 4.49 stars. Our analysis covers 681 parent reviews. Parents in Sarasota most frequently praise daycares for clean facility, children excited to attend, and safe environment.
When choosing a daycare in Sarasota, consider visiting facilities in person, checking their licensing status, and asking about staff-to-child ratios, daily routines, and safety policies.
Showing 64 results
One parent describes receiving thorough, personalized, and gentle care for their young child, noting that the smaller class size prevented the child from feeling lost compared to larger preschools. A second review highlights the program as a recommended option for early age care, citing its secure environment and central location.
Capokids receives universal 5/5 star ratings from parents who praise the caring staff, family-like environment, and unique capoeira-based program. Parents consistently report their children love attending, show increased confidence, and develop strong friendships while learning Brazilian culture and physical activity alongside academics.
Parents describe the center as warm, helpful, and practically perfect, highlighting the staff's caring nature and the wide array of resources available to families. Reviewers appreciate the engaging activities for toddlers, free library playgroups, and supportive therapy services that help parents feel more confident.
One parent describes a supportive environment where their child has learned significantly through hands-on activities and art projects. The reviewer highlights the staff's helpful and friendly demeanor during daily drop-offs and pick-ups.
Reviewers highlight Bradley D. and Mrs. Estrellita as caring and knowledgeable therapists who provide invaluable support to parents. The center is described as a wonderful community resource offering a safe and fun learning environment with excellent teachers.
One parent highlights the comprehensive curriculum, which includes Spanish, dance, and art alongside standard academics, while noting that teachers provide caring, personalized attention. Another review describes the facility as a safe, secure, and organized environment where children feel comfortable and welcomed.
Bright Start Child Development Center in Sarasota receives consistently excellent reviews with parents praising the caring, attentive staff led by Ms. Agata. Parents highlight the warm environment, strong communication, cleanliness, and structured curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten. Multiple families note significant improvements in their children's development and emotional well-being after switching from other daycares.
Angels Child Development Center in Sarasota receives consistently excellent feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the professional, caring staff, welcoming environment, and strong child development outcomes, with many noting their children are happy and eager to attend.
Parents consistently praise Little Peoples Place for exceptional staff care, educational focus, and family-like environment. The owner, Ms. Debbie, and her team are described as loving, nurturing educators who treat children as individuals and go above and beyond expectations. Multiple families have returned or recommended the facility based on their positive experiences.
CapoKids is a highly-rated preschool and VPK program in Sarasota that combines traditional curriculum with capoeira martial arts, yoga, and cultural activities. Parents consistently praise the staff's dedication, the program's effectiveness in building children's confidence and social skills, and the unique blend of physical activity with academics. The school creates a welcoming, family-like environment where children thrive both emotionally and academically.
Parents highlight the facility's cleanliness, caring teachers, and exceptional communication with working families. A former employee also praises the nurturing, child-led environment and the owner's leadership, while one review offers a general positive note on staff friendliness.
Wooden Shoes Child Care Center in Sarasota receives consistently excellent feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the caring and attentive staff, strong owner involvement, engaging curriculum, and clean facility that has positively impacted their children's development and happiness.
The Renaissance Preschool in Sarasota receives consistently positive feedback from parents, with all reviews rating the facility 5/5 stars. Parents praise the attentive and caring staff, clean environment, structured curriculum with hands-on learning, and strong communication from leadership. Children show measurable academic and social development, with parents reporting high satisfaction and willingness to recommend the center.
The Learning Cottage receives consistently high praise from parents for its balanced approach to education and play, caring staff, and nurturing environment. Parents highlight strong academic and social-emotional development, with children showing enthusiasm for learning and improved speech/skills. The center is noted for effective communication, healthy snacks, and creating a welcoming, family-like atmosphere.
Parents consistently praise The Learning Cottage for its balanced educational approach combined with nurturing care. Staff are described as caring, professional, and communicative, with children showing excitement about learning and strong social-emotional development. All reviewers express high satisfaction and confidence in their children's safety and growth.
Smarty Pants Preschool receives consistently high praise from parents for its caring, professional staff and rigorous curriculum that prepares children well for kindergarten. Parents highlight the clean facilities, attentive teachers, and personalized approach to each child's development. Multiple families report their children entering elementary school significantly ahead academically and emotionally.
Bizzy Bee Early Care Center receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents, with nine 5-star reviews praising the caring teaching staff, engaging learning activities, clean facilities, and family-like atmosphere. One 4-star review commended the teachers but raised concerns about administrative leadership and perceived staffing issues during peak times.
Kingdom Academy is a highly-rated preschool in Sarasota with consistently excellent parent feedback. Parents praise the caring, experienced staff, strong academic preparation for kindergarten, and safe, clean learning environment. Children reportedly thrive emotionally and academically, with many families crediting the school for their children's long-term educational success.
Shining Stars Learning Center receives consistently excellent feedback from parents who praise the staff's genuine care, nurturing environment, and rigorous academic curriculum. Parents report their children develop advanced academic skills, transition smoothly to kindergarten and elementary school, and genuinely enjoy attending. The facility is described as a top choice in the Sarasota area.
Parents praise the Selby Preschool program at this facility for fostering children's growth and interests, with consistently positive feedback about the beautiful campus, safe environment, and excellent staff. Communication with parents through the Dojo app and daily activity photos is highlighted as a strength. Children are reported to be happy and eager to attend daily.
Parents consistently praise Lakeside Academy for its caring staff, particularly director Ms. Jackie, and its strong academic curriculum that prepares children well for kindergarten. Children reportedly enjoy attending daily and show advanced development across academic, social, and emotional domains. The facility is described as a nurturing community that balances structured learning with play and fun activities.
NEW COLLEGE CHILD CENTER in Sarasota receives mostly positive feedback, with parents praising staff care and educational activities. However, one negative review indicates management changes led to concerns about hygiene, excessive screen time, and unclear policies in the toddler class.
Albatross Learning Centers in Sarasota receives consistently high praise from parents who highlight the caring and dedicated staff, engaging daily activities, and clean facilities. Parents report their children are happy, learning, and developing well, with some noting improvements in behavior and health compared to other daycares.
One parent highlights the center's thoughtful and caring staff, noting that children are only sent home when health criteria are met. In contrast, another review criticizes the facility for frequently sending children home for minor symptoms like coughs, citing a lack of consideration for parents' work obligations.
One parent reports that the center is thoughtful and caring, keeping children home only when specific health criteria are met, while another criticizes the strict policy of sending children home for minor symptoms like a cough or sniffle. A third inquiry was made regarding a staff member's name but contained no feedback on the service.
Circle of Friends Preschool receives unanimous 5-star ratings from parents who praise the warm, nurturing teaching staff and strong developmental focus. Parents report their children thrived academically and socially, with many noting children exceeded kindergarten readiness and excelled in elementary school. The facility is described as well-organized with a family-like community atmosphere.
KinderHouse Preschool in Sarasota receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with parents praising the caring and dedicated staff, clean facilities, and quality education. One parent reported concerns about behavior changes, sugary snacks, and a physical incident with their child that led them to withdraw.
Several parents highlight the loving, family-like atmosphere and enthusiastic teachers, noting that children enjoy attending daily. Conversely, one review warns of a significant decline in cleanliness and professionalism, citing rude communication from the owner.
One parent describes a highly positive experience with patient teachers and a safe, organized environment that supported their grandson's gifted academic development. In contrast, a separate review highlights significant communication failures and administrative neglect regarding a refund and schedule changes during the pandemic.
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