Best Child Daycare & Preschools in Sarasota, FL
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, Florida at a glance
- Programs
- 64
- Avg rating
- 4.32/5
- Parent reviews
- 681
- Top rated (4.5+)
- 34
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.
Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in Sarasota
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.
- 1Capoeira Volta Ao Mundo INC. Capokids4.74 score5(14)
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.
Caring and professional stafffamily-oriented environmentcapoeira instruction combined with academicsflexible hours - 2Ascension Evangelical Lutheran Preschool4.72 score4.9(20)
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.
Bible-based and scripturally sound teachingswelcoming and friendly communityfamily-oriented atmospherecaring and dedicated staff and pastors - 3Bright Start Child Development Center4.72 score4.9(20)
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.
Caring and compassionate staffexcellent communication with parentsclean and well-maintained facilitystructured kindergarten-prep curriculum - 4St. Boniface Preschool4.64 score4.8(20)
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.
Beautiful venuetalented musiciansexcellent music selectionwelcoming atmosphere - 5Capokids The Martial Arts School Preschool4.63 score4.8(19)
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.
Builds confidence in shy or timid childrenExcellent staff who are caring and passionateVPK-approved curriculumIncorporates capoeira - 6Little Peoples Place4.59 score4.8(14)
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.
Caring and nurturing staffstrong educational focusclean facilityfamily atmosphere - 7Angels Child Development Center4.58 score4.9(9)
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.
Professional and attentive staffcaring teachers who genuinely love their jobswelcoming and friendly environmentstrong child development and learning outcomes - 8Good Shephard Lutheran School4.58 score4.8(13)
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.
Caring and patient teacherscreative engagement and hands-on activitiesdaily photo updates shared with parentskindergarten preparation - 9Wooden Shoes Child Care Center4.56 score4.7(20)
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.
Patient and caring staffactive owner involvementdaily picture updatesengaging arts and crafts activities - 10The Renaissance Preschool INC.4.56 score4.7(20)
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.
Attentive and caring teachersclean facilitystructured daily schedulehands-on learning approach (minimal technology)
Rating Distribution
Based on 64 daycares with Google ratings in Sarasota
What Parents Value Most
Top qualities mentioned across 681 reviews, analyzed by AI
Daycare Types Compared
Average ratings by facility type in Sarasota, based on parent reviews
Best Rated Neighborhoods
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 |
Facility Sizes
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
Top Rated
Highest rated daycares in Sarasota based on parent reviews
Capoeira Volta Ao Mundo INC. Capokids
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.
Bright Start Child Development Center
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.
Capokids The Martial Arts School Preschool
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.
Little Peoples Place
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.
Angels Child Development Center
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.
Wooden Shoes Child Care Center
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.
Map
Daycare types in Sarasota
Browse by type in Sarasota
Child Daycare & Preschools in Sarasota, Florida
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.
All Child Daycare & Preschools in Sarasota
Showing 64 results
One parent highlights the center's loving teachers and organized environment, while another shares a detailed account of her grandson's exceptional academic success under their care. However, a separate reviewer reports significant issues with staff professionalism and communication regarding refunds and hours at a different location.
- Address
- 1912 N. Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
Little Disciples Preschool receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from most parents, who praise the creative curriculum, caring staff, and positive school culture. However, one parent reported a negative experience involving the abrupt removal of their child, citing concerns about lack of support for children needing additional attention.
- Address
- 4835 Beneva Rd, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
The reviews appear to be mismatched with the daycare listing. Most reviews reference Suncoast Technical College/Career Center programs, not a preschool. The few relevant comments praise staff helpfulness and clean facilities.
- Address
- 4748 Beneva Rd, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
One parent describes the facility as excellent and wishes they had another infant to enroll, while another simply notes it was a good time.
- Address
- 2700 Leon Avenue, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
Reviewers highlight a structured, creative curriculum and a close-knit family atmosphere where teachers model good manners. Parents appreciate the engaging arts and performance opportunities offered within a small-class setting.
- Address
- 4466 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
Parents consistently praise Sandman Preschool & Academy for its friendly, caring staff and family-owned atmosphere. Children show enthusiasm for attending, with reported developmental progress in speech, learning, and social skills. The facility is noted for excellent pricing and flexible scheduling options.
- Address
- 924 Wilmerling Ave, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- (941) 755-2591
Note: Reviews provided are for The Pines of Sarasota skilled nursing and memory care facility, not a child care center. Reviews consistently praise exceptional care, compassionate staff, cleanliness, and strong communication with families. Multiple reviewers highlight outstanding physical therapy services and support during end-of-life care.
- Address
- 1501 N Orange Avenue, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
Koala Early Education Center receives highly polarized reviews. While many parents praise the caring staff, educational curriculum, cleanliness, and bilingual environment, others report poor communication, lack of supervision, billing issues, and unprofessional administration.
- Address
- 3710 N Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
Play & Grow Preschool receives overwhelmingly positive reviews from most parents, who praise the caring staff, hands-on teaching, strong communication, and bilingual curriculum. However, a small number of negative reviews cite concerns about refund policies and staff rudeness. The majority of parents report their children thrive and love attending.
- Address
- 2435 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
One parent highlights significant skill improvement in their baby and expresses strong appreciation for the director and staff. A second review offers a brief positive note regarding their grandson's attendance, though it provides no specific details about the care quality.
- Address
- 4726 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
One parent describes a positive experience with caring staff and strong communication, while another notes a professional, clean, and affordable environment. Conversely, a separate review details severe allegations of negligence, physical harm, and discriminatory treatment of a disabled child, citing ongoing investigations and legal action.
- Address
- 2185 Wood Street, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
Some parents highlight the facility as a professional, clean, and affordable option with caring staff who communicate regularly and support learning. In contrast, one review details severe allegations of neglect, physical injury, and discriminatory treatment of a disabled child, citing ongoing legal investigations.
- Address
- 823 S. School Ave., Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- (941) 955-4163
A few parents highlight the staff's professionalism and genuine care for children, including those with special needs like premature infants. However, others report significant issues with administrative communication, including unreturned calls, hanging up, and poor handling of enrollment inquiries.
- Address
- 1609 10 Th Street, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
- Address
- 1729 33rd St, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
Faith Early Learning Center received consistently high praise for its exceptional director Amanda Grados and dedicated staff who provided outstanding care and early learning curriculum. However, multiple recent reviews indicate the center was taken over by the affiliated church in May 2022, resulting in the departure of the director and staff, prompting several families to withdraw their children due to concerns about declining quality and accreditation.
- Address
- 7750 Beneva Road, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
A few reviews describe severe neglect, including children being left dirty, hungry, and exposed to contagious illnesses without notification. Parents report unsafe conditions such as being strapped in chairs facing walls, the presence of random adults, and staff refusing to answer questions or provide basic care.
- Address
- 611 N. East Avenue, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
Little Scholars receives highly polarized reviews ranging from 1-5 stars. Positive reviewers praise the owner Sandra's management, academic curriculum, safety measures, and staff qualifications, while negative reviewers cite concerns about the director's management style, lack of parent camera access, food withholding as punishment, and high teacher turnover.
- Address
- 5745 Rosin Way, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
- Address
- 1700 Gore Street, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
- Address
- 11011 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
La Petite Academy Sarasota receives consistently excellent reviews from parents who praise the caring, patient, and compassionate staff. Parents highlight strong teacher-child relationships, effective communication, clean facilities, and a balanced approach to play-based and structured learning. Children show measurable growth in confidence, social skills, and development.
- Address
- 4507 Vintage Dr, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- (941) 355-7677
Parents highlight the center's loving, organized environment and exceptional staff who foster early development and family engagement. However, a recent negative experience at the North Port location cited unprofessional communication, sudden program closures, and unresolved refund issues during the pandemic.
- Address
- 1742 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
- Address
- 1773 Morrill St, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
- Address
- 521 N Lime Ave, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
- Address
- 3631 Tallevast Rd, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- (941) 355-6857
- Address
- 4141 Desoto Road, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
- Address
- 2811 17th St, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
- Address
- 1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
- Address
- 7950 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
- Address
- 2674 Dr. Mlk Jr. Way, Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- (941) 914-5732
- Address
- 6220 Mcintosh Rd., Sarasota, FL
- Phone
- NOT AVAILABLE
Page 2 of 3· 64 results
Frequently asked questions
- Licensing status with Florida's regulatory agency
- Staff-to-child ratios (requirements vary by age group in Florida)
- Safety measures and cleanliness
- Daily routines and educational curriculum
- Parent reviews and ratings
- Location and hours that fit your schedule
- Child Daycare & Preschools — 64 facilities
- Headstart Programs — 2 facilities
- Church Daycare — 20 facilities
- Before or After School Daycare — 1 facilities