How do I choose the right preschool in Chico?

When selecting a preschool in Chico, consider: Visit the facility in person to observe the environment Ask about teacher qualifications and experience Check licensing status with California's regulatory agency Review the curriculum and daily schedule Read parent reviews for firsthand experiences Compare staff-to-child ratios across facilities

Best Preschools in Chico, CA — Compare 28

Q: How much does preschool cost in Chico, California?

Preschool costs in Chico typically range from $600 to $1,500 per month for full-time programs. Half-day programs are usually less expensive. Some preschools offer financial aid, and California may have state-funded pre-K programs for qualifying families. Contact individual facilities for current tuition rates.

Best Preschools in Chico

Ranked using a weighted score that combines Google rating with the number of parent reviews — preschools with more reviews rank higher than those with a high rating but few reviews. Last updated: March 2026.

Littlefoot Daycare - Preschool

4.64 score

5(9)

2022 Franklin St., Chico, CA · Capacity: 24 children

Littlefoot Daycare (also referred to as Little Pines in reviews) in Chico has a perfect 5/5 rating across all parent reviews. Parents consistently praise the caring, experienced staff, small class sizes, safe environment, and strong developmental outcomes for their children.

Loving and attentive staffsmall and intimate environmentstrong parent communicationsafe and secure facility with key card access

Chico Child Development Center - Preschool

4.62 score

5(8)

2550 Hwy 32, Chico, CA · Capacity: 27 children

Chico Child Development Center receives consistently high praise from parents who highlight the caring, attentive staff and welcoming environment. Parents report their children are happy, engaged, and thriving, with several noting significant behavioral improvements and long-term loyalty to the center. The facility is described as clean, safe, and offering quality educational activities and support.

Caring and attentive teachersexcellent communication with parentswelcoming and warm environmentclean and safe facility

Chico Christian Preschool

4.55 score

5(6)

2801 Notre Dame Blvd., Chico, CA · Capacity: 130 children

Parents consistently praise Chico Christian Preschool for its caring and compassionate staff who excel at easing parental anxiety about childcare transitions. Reviews highlight strong child development across social and academic areas, family-centered values, and excellent communication with parents.

Caring and loving staffcompassionate and welcoming environmentstrong developmental growth (social and academic)good communication with parents

The King'S Christian Preschool

4.44 score

5(4)

1137 Arbutus Avenue, Chico, CA · Capacity: 25 children

Parents highlight the school's caring staff and strong communication, noting that children enjoy the safe, engaging environment with activities like crafts and outdoor play. Reviewers appreciate the small class sizes and positive atmosphere, with one parent also praising the exciting summer camp features such as water play and field trips.

caring teachersstrong staff-parent communicationsmall class sizessafe environment

The King'S Christian Preschool

4.44 score

5(4)

1137 Arbutus Ave., Chico, CA · Capacity: 48 children

Parents highlight the school's caring staff, small class sizes, and safe, clean environment, with children enjoying daily activities and field trips. Reviewers appreciate the strong communication between staff and families, noting that their kids look forward to attending. One parent specifically praises the extensive facilities and unstructured play options during summer camp.

caring and kind teacherssmall class sizesstrong parent-staff communicationsafe and clean learning environment

Smart Start Preschool

4.38 score

5(3)

1565 East Avenue, Chico, CA · Capacity: 111 children

Parents highlight the engaging curriculum and strong staff dedication, noting that the facility is clean and offers easy drop-off and pickup processes. Reviewers appreciate the clear communication from management and the structured environment that effectively prepares children for future schooling.

engaging and fun activitiescaring and great teachersclean facilityclear communication

Castles Preschool

4.34 score

4.5(11)

55 Jan Ct., Chico, CA · Capacity: 64 children

Castles Preschool receives consistently positive feedback from parents who praise the dedicated staff, welcoming diverse environment, and focus on child development and learning. Parents report their children are well-cared for, happy, and growing academically and socially. The center has successfully retained families for multiple years and across multiple children.

Dedicated and caring staffdiverse and welcoming environmentstrong focus on child development and learningcultural education (Arabic language/numbers)

Castles Preschool (Infant)

4.34 score

4.5(11)

55 Jan Ct., Chico, CA · Capacity: 14 children

Castles Preschool receives consistently high praise from parents for dedicated staff who go above and beyond in supporting child development and growth. Parents appreciate the welcoming, diverse environment and emphasis on core values, with many having enrolled multiple children long-term. A few minor concerns were raised about meal nutrition, limited photo updates for infants, and early closing time.

Dedicated and caring staffdiverse and welcoming environmentfocus on child development and learningcultural education (Arabic language/numbers)

Laura'S Daycare Center & Preschool

4.23 score

4.8(2)

475 E. 5th Avenue, Chico, CA · Capacity: 36 children

Parkside Preschool & Daycare

4.22 score

4.3(13)

1885 E 8th Street, Chico, CA · Capacity: 72 children

Parents consistently praise Parkside Preschool & Daycare for its caring, family-like environment where children thrive emotionally and academically. Staff members are highly responsive to individual needs, and the center emphasizes outdoor activities, nature exposure, and engaging learning experiences that prepare children well for elementary school.

Compassionate and attentive staffstrong teacher-parent communicationindividualized child-centered approachoutdoor adventures and park walks

Preschools in Chico, California

Chico has 28 preschool programs designed to prepare children ages 3-5 for kindergarten. These programs focus on early literacy, social skills, and structured learning in a nurturing environment.

When choosing a preschool in Chico, consider visiting facilities in person, checking their licensing status, and asking about staff-to-child ratios, daily routines, and safety policies.

Frequently asked questions

There are 28 preschools in Chico, California. Browse our directory to compare programs, read parent reviews, and find the best option for your child.

Most preschool programs in Chico accept children between ages 2.5 and 5. Many children start at age 3 or 4, about one to two years before kindergarten. Look for signs of readiness such as being comfortable away from parents, ability to follow simple instructions, and interest in playing with other children.

While both provide childcare, preschools in Chico typically focus more on structured educational activities to prepare children for kindergarten. Preschool programs often run half-day or school-year schedules, while daycare centers offer full-day, year-round care. Many facilities combine both, offering preschool curriculum within a full-day daycare setting.

Preschool costs in Chico typically range from $600 to $1,500 per month for full-time programs. Half-day programs are usually less expensive. Some preschools offer financial aid, and California may have state-funded pre-K programs for qualifying families. Contact individual facilities for current tuition rates.

When selecting a preschool in Chico, consider:

Visit the facility in person to observe the environment
Ask about teacher qualifications and experience
Check licensing status with California's regulatory agency
Review the curriculum and daily schedule
Read parent reviews for firsthand experiences
Compare staff-to-child ratios across facilities

Best Preschools in Chico, CA