Oaks Parent Child Workshop

Hands down the best preschool in Santa Barbara. The Oaks is such a wonderful community of parents, children, and teachers who work together in a co-op environment to let parents be their child's first teacher. The nature-based, play-based curriculum invites children to follow their curiosity. The beautiful outdoor classroom provides ample space for movement, discovery, and joyful play. Mixed-age learning lets kids learn from and with one another, and the teachers genuinely care. The co-op model isn't for everyone. It asks for your time and participation. But what you get back is irreplaceable: real friendships, a deeper understanding of your child's development, and a village that extends well beyond the school years. Many Oaks families stay connected long after their kids move on. And because families contribute their time, tuition is about a quarter of what you'd pay at other preschools. Generations of Santa Barbara families have come through The Oaks since 1947, many of whom have gone on to become community leaders, educators, and professionals who still speak fondly of their time here. This year, The Oaks was recognized with the Santa Barbara Independent's Best of 2025 award for Best Daycare Facility. If you're looking for a preschool where you're an active part of your child's early education, not just dropping them off, The Oaks is worth exploring.

The Oaks PCW has been such a special place for our family. Having had all three of our children attend, we feel so fortunate for the experience and friendships formed, for our kids and for us as parents. There’s something really meaningful about being part of a co-op and your child’s early education - learning together, and becoming a better parent in the process. Being surrounded by a community of passionate, caring families makes The Oaks feel like more than a school, it's a place of real connection that we’ve been so grateful for. We highly recommend The Oaks to anyone looking to make the most of these short, special years with your kiddos.

This preschool is truly unique — it’s not a typical preschool where you simply drop off your child in the morning and hope for the best. At The Oaks, you truly become part of your child’s early learning journey. Parents spend one full morning at school each week, sharing meaningful moments with their children and seeing firsthand how they learn, play, and grow. What makes The Oaks especially special is the deep sense of trust and community. The adult-to-child ratio is much better than at most preschools, which means children receive more individual attention and care. You always know your child is surrounded by thoughtful, attentive, and trustworthy adults. Through weekly evening parent education classes, committee work, and many shared experiences, families form genuine connections and support one another. It feels less like a school and more like a community raising children together. Yes, The Oaks asks for a real commitment of time and energy — but what you receive in return is invaluable. You gain a deeper understanding of your child, grow as a parent, and create memories that will last far beyond the preschool years. On top of all of that, the tuition is very reasonable compared to other preschools in town, making this experience even more meaningful and accessible.

We are so grateful we chose The Oaks for preschool a few months after moving to Santa Barbara. Our daughter started as a 2.5 year old and has thrived within their play-based learning environment. The school has a special way of fostering creativity, curiosity, and social-emotional development, and I'm always astounded at the scope of materials and activities provided every week. As a parent, you will look back on your time at The Oaks as some of the most special time you were able to spend with your child(ren). Not to mention the lifelong friends you will meet along the way. The Oaks community has quickly made Santa Barbara feel like home, and I look forwarded to attending with my son when he's of age.

It was love at first sight for us! We enjoy our weekly meetings and the community atmosphere on work days. Established in 1947, The Oaks is the oldest parent-child workshop on the west coast. I was impressed to learn the original members actually built the building that’s still in use today! Two founders were architects, so the rest is history. Your kid will thrive, learn through play, and your family will make connections through the community atmosphere. Just bring your kid, and go for a tour to experience the vibe for yourself!