How do I choose the right preschool in Los Altos?

When selecting a preschool in Los Altos, 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 Los Altos, CA — Compare 8

Q: How much does preschool cost in Los Altos, California?

Preschool costs in Los Altos 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 Los Altos

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.

University Oaks Preschool

4.58 score

5(7)

858 University Avenue, Los Altos, CA · Capacity: 32 children

University Oaks Preschool receives unanimous 5-star ratings from parents who praise the school's warm, nurturing environment and individualized approach to each child's development. Parents consistently highlight the experienced, caring teachers, strong parent-school communication, and balanced curriculum combining play-based learning with academics. The Christian community aspect and sense of belonging are also frequently mentioned as significant strengths.

Individualized attentionexperienced and passionate teacherswarm and nurturing environmentstrong parent communication

Los Altos Parent Preschool

4.44 score

5(4)

201 Covington Road, Los Altos, CA · Capacity: 22 children

Parents highlight a play-based curriculum that fosters social, fine, and gross motor skills, alongside a supportive community that actively involves parents in their child's education. Reviewers appreciate the dedicated, experienced teachers and the school's ability to help children navigate separation anxiety and conflict resolution.

Play-based curriculumstrong parent community involvementexperienced and dedicated teachersfocus on social and motor skill development

Montecito Preschool

4 score

4(15)

1468 Grant Road, Los Altos, CA · Capacity: 86 children

Parents consistently praise Montecito Preschool as a happy, well-maintained facility with caring teachers and excellent student-teacher ratios. The outdoor-focused, play-based curriculum with on-campus animals and extensive outdoor spaces is a major highlight, and families appreciate the responsive administration and strong sense of community.

Caring and kind teachersexcellent teacher-student ratiosbeautiful outdoor campus with diverse play structureson-campus animals integrated into curriculum

Clc Foothill Preschool

4 score

2100 Woods Lane, Los Altos, CA · Capacity: 24 children

Stepping Stones Preschool & Infant Care

3.78 score

3.5(4)

201 Covington Road, Los Altos, CA · Capacity: 20 children

Some parents praise the school for its loving staff, low ratios, and comprehensive curriculum that prepares children well for kindergarten, noting a strong sense of community. However, other families report significant issues including poor management, lack of transparency regarding refunds, staff nepotism, and inadequate supervision leading to bullying and neglect.

loving and nurturing stafflow student-to-teacher ratioscomprehensive academic and social curriculuminclusive community focus

Preschools in Los Altos, California

Los Altos has 8 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 Los Altos, 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 8 preschools in Los Altos, California. Browse our directory to compare programs, read parent reviews, and find the best option for your child.

Most preschool programs in Los Altos 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 Los Altos 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 Los Altos 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 Los Altos, 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 Los Altos, CA