Children at daycare

29 Headstart Programs in San Diego, California

Browse all 29 headstart programs 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

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Headstart Programs in San Diego, California

There are 29 headstart programs in San Diego, California, making up 7% 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 Headstart Programs in San Diego

Showing 29 results

Nha - Altadena Head Start
Headstart Programs
5
Address
3778 Altadena Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 280-6951
Nha - Chollas View Head Start
Headstart Programs
5
Address
918 No. 47th Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 262-1147
Nha Mercado Head Start Family Focused Ctr
Headstart Programs
5
Address
2001 Newton Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 687-0322
Nha North Park Head Start Family Focus Center
Headstart Programs
5
Address
2717 University Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 298-4500
Ecs Zamorano Head Start
Headstart Programs
5
Address
7375 Tooma Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 434-5780
Nha Early Link-Skill Centers Of America Head Start
Headstart Programs
5
Address
6285 University Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 243-1607
Nha O'Farrell Head Start
Headstart Programs
5
Address
6130 Skyline Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 266-9375
Nha Webster Head Start Family Focused Ctr
Headstart Programs
5
Address
2930 Marcy Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 232-4521
Nha Urban Village II Head Start
Headstart Programs
4.9

Parents consistently praise NHA Urban Village II Head Start for its professional, caring, and well-educated staff. The facility is noted for its hands-on learning approach, warm environment, and high standards. The centralized City Heights location is also mentioned as convenient.

Professional and warm staffwell-educated teacherscaring and loving environment
Address
4305 University Avenue, #107, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 284-5644
Nha- New Life Head Start Family Focus Center
Headstart Programs
4.4
Address
766 28th Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 233-4782
Nha-Euclid Avenue Head Start
Headstart Programs
3.5
Address
210 S. Euclid Ave, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 264-3577
Nha - Miller Head Start
Headstart Programs
3.4
Address
4343 Shields, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 278-0502
Ecs - Nestor Head Start
Headstart Programs
3
Address
2399 Grove Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 423-4986
Nha-Clairemont Mesa Head Start
Headstart Programs
3
Address
4271 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 581-2193
Ecs Montgomery Head Start
Headstart Programs
2.8

ECS Montgomery Head Start has polarizing reviews. Some parents report positive experiences with caring staff, bilingual education, and children enjoying school. However, multiple parents cite serious concerns including poor communication, failure to report injuries, unprofessional staff behavior, and lack of adherence to safety protocols.

Bilingual English/Spanish instructionteachers described as amazing and caringchildren eager to attend
Address
3240 Palm Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 424-4027
Aka Head Start - Darnall
Headstart Programs
1
Address
6020 Hughes Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 955-8730
Nha- John Marshall Head Start
Headstart Programs

NHA John Marshall Head Start receives consistently positive feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the warm and well-educated staff, clean facilities, and strong special education programs, particularly appreciating its proximity to John Marshall Elementary for accessing school district resources.

Friendly and caring staffclean facilitystrong special education programs
Address
3550 Altadena Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 624-2362
Nha - Walker Head Start
Headstart Programs
Address
9245 Hillery Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 653-3671
Nha Home Avenue Head Start Family Focus Center
Headstart Programs

NHA Home Avenue Head Start Family Focus Center receives consistently positive feedback from parents, with all 10 reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the caring and nurturing staff, quality education, and strong teacher-student relationships that help children develop behaviorally, emotionally, and academically.

Caring and kind staffexperienced teachers (particularly Ms. Pachuca and Ms. Sarah)strong teacher-student bonds
Address
4111 Home Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 262-8199
Nha Karen D Love Head Start
Headstart Programs
Address
6762 N Elman Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 560-6034
Aka Head Start - Rolando Park
Headstart Programs
Address
6620 Marlowe Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 795-4650
Cherokee Point State Preschool/Head Start Program
Headstart Programs
Address
3735 38th Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 641-3400
Episcopal Community Services-Reo Head Start
Headstart Programs
Address
2602 Reo Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 228-2800
Nha-Alcott Early Head Start
Headstart Programs
Address
4680 Hidalgo Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 272-9641
Nha-Loma Portal Head Start/Cdd
Headstart Programs
Address
2905 Cadiz, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 523-2510
Nha Educational Cultural Complex Head Start & Cdc
Headstart Programs

This facility appears to be a community college/adult education center rather than a daycare. Reviews praise the diverse class offerings, safe learning environment, helpful staff, and cultural programs. All reviewers gave 5-star ratings and highlighted positive experiences with classes and staff assistance.

Diverse class offeringshelpful and patient staffclean campus
Address
4343 Ocean View Blvd., San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 388-4802
Nha Mcgill School Of Success Head Start
Headstart Programs
Address
3025 Fir Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 239-0632
Rodriguez State Ps/Head Start Program
Headstart Programs
Address
825 South 31st Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 699-4500
Sherman State Preschool/Head Start Program
Headstart Programs
Address
301 22nd Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 615-7000

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Frequently asked questions

There are 29 headstart programs 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.