Children at daycare

175 Preschools in San Diego, California

Find the best preschools in San Diego, California. Browse 175 options, compare ratings, and choose the right program for your child.

Best Preschools in San Diego

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.

  1. 1

    4895 Saratoga Avenue, San Diego, CA · 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
  2. 2

    5075 Ruffin Road, San Diego, CA · 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
  3. 3
    Wee Wisdom Preschool
    4.72 score
    5(13)

    8999 Activity Road, San Diego, CA · 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
  4. 4

    4168 Market Street, San Diego, CA · Capacity: 54 children

    Little Lamb Land Christian Preschool receives universal praise from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents consistently highlight the caring and qualified staff, strong curriculum that prepares children academically, and the school's nurturing Christian environment that provides peace of mind.

    Caring and attentive staffstrong academic curriculumChristian/spiritual educationdaily communication and updates
  5. 5

    1675 Garnet Avenue, San Diego, CA · Capacity: 51 children

    These reviews appear to be for the church itself rather than the preschool program. Reviews praise the welcoming community, pastor, worship services, and community involvement. No specific feedback about the daycare program was provided.

    Welcoming communityenergetic pastorquality worship servicescommunity support for homeless
  6. 6

    2051 Sunset Cliffs Boulevard, San Diego, CA · Capacity: 21 children

    World of Wonders Preschool receives consistently perfect 5-star reviews from parents who praise the attentive, caring staff and small class sizes. Parents highlight the clean, safe, gated facility, strong academic preparation for elementary school, and Director Julia's compassionate leadership and accessibility. Families report their children have thrived socially, emotionally, and academically during their time at the school.

    small class sizesattentive and kind teachersclean and safe facilitygated security
  7. 7

    9510 Carmel Mountain Road, San Diego, CA · Capacity: 249 children

    Parents consistently praise Carmel Mountain Preschool for its nurturing, child-centered approach with highly dedicated teachers who help children thrive and develop confidence. The school offers rich, diverse programming including outdoor activities, organic meals, and specialized amenities like gardens, art studios, and animal care, creating a warm community environment where children are excited to attend.

    Caring and attentive staffoutdoor and play-focused curric
  8. 8
    Green Beans Preschool
    4.63 score
    4.8(18)

    4153 First Avenue, San Diego, CA · Capacity: 22 children

    Green Beans Preschool receives consistently positive feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the nurturing, home-like environment, experienced staff led by owner Louise, play-based curriculum, and strong sense of community. Children reportedly thrive emotionally and developmentally, with many families enrolling multiple children and staying long-term.

    Warm and caring staffplay-based learning approachindividual attention to childrensmooth transitions for separation anxiety
  9. 9
    Murphy Canyon Preschool
    4.62 score
    4.8(17)

    5150 Murphy Canyon Road, #105, San Diego, CA · Capacity: 71 children

    Murphy Canyon Preschool receives consistently excellent reviews from parents, with all ratings at 5/5. Parents praise the warm, caring teaching staff, effective Montessori-based curriculum, and the significant developmental progress their children make, particularly in social skills, confidence, and kindergarten readiness.

    Warm and patient teachersstrong Montessori curriculumexcellent outdoor play spacegood communication with parents
  10. 10
    Adventure Days Preschool
    4.59 score
    4.8(14)

    10881 Tierransanta Boluevard, San Diego, CA · Capacity: 98 children

    Adventure Days Preschool receives perfect 5-star ratings from parents who praise the caring, qualified teachers, strong faith-based curriculum, and supportive community environment. Parents consistently highlight excellent communication, organized administration led by director Jill, and special attention to individual student needs including emotional development and special medical conditions.

    Dedicated and caring teachersfaith-based educationstrong communication with parents via SchoolStatus Connect Appweekly lesson plans with STEM activities

Preschools in San Diego, California

San Diego has 175 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 San Diego, consider visiting facilities in person, checking their licensing status, and asking about staff-to-child ratios, daily routines, and safety policies.

All Preschools in San Diego

Showing 175 results

Adventure Days Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Adventure Days Preschool receives perfect 5-star ratings from parents who praise the caring, qualified teachers, strong faith-based curriculum, and supportive community environment. Parents consistently highlight excellent communication, organized administration led by director Jill, and special attention to individual student needs including emotional development and special medical conditions.

Dedicated and caring teachersfaith-based educationstrong communication with parents via SchoolStatus Connect App
Address
10881 Tierransanta Boluevard, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 560-5686
Carmel Mountain Pre-School
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Parents consistently praise Carmel Mountain Preschool for its nurturing, child-centered approach with highly dedicated teachers who help children thrive and develop confidence. The school offers rich, diverse programming including outdoor activities, organic meals, and specialized amenities like gardens, art studios, and animal care, creating a warm community environment where children are excited to attend.

Caring and attentive staffoutdoor and play-focused curric
Address
9510 Carmel Mountain Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 484-4877
Green Beans Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Green Beans Preschool receives consistently positive feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the nurturing, home-like environment, experienced staff led by owner Louise, play-based curriculum, and strong sense of community. Children reportedly thrive emotionally and developmentally, with many families enrolling multiple children and staying long-term.

Warm and caring staffplay-based learning approachindividual attention to children
Address
4153 First Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 945-2302
Mira Mesa Presbyterian Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Parents consistently praise Mira Mesa Presbyterian Preschool for its caring and engaging staff who treat families like family. Children reportedly thrive academically and socially, with smooth transitions to elementary school. The facility is highly recommended by families who have enrolled multiple children.

Kind and caring teachersengaging learning environmentstrong academic foundation
Address
8081 Mira Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 578-2160
Murphy Canyon Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Murphy Canyon Preschool receives consistently excellent reviews from parents, with all ratings at 5/5. Parents praise the warm, caring teaching staff, effective Montessori-based curriculum, and the significant developmental progress their children make, particularly in social skills, confidence, and kindergarten readiness.

Warm and patient teachersstrong Montessori curriculumexcellent outdoor play space
Address
5150 Murphy Canyon Road, #105, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 279-5437
Adventure Days Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Adventure Days Preschool receives exclusively positive reviews from parents who praise the caring, qualified teachers and strong leadership. Parents highlight the faith-based curriculum, regular STEM activities, community involvement, and excellent parent-teacher communication as standout features. The school is noted for making children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn.

Dedicated and caring teachersfaith-based educationstrong leadership (Jill and Jackie)
Address
10881 Tierrasanta Boulevard, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 560-5686
Price Family Preschool Of Temple Emanu-El
Church Daycare
4.7

Note: Reviews appear to be for Temple Emanu-El synagogue and its programs rather than the preschool specifically. Reviewers praise the facility as a warm, welcoming, and inclusive religious community with diverse programming including senior centers, family events, and educational activities.

Welcoming and inclusive communityLGBT friendlycaring and knowledgeable rabbis
Address
6299 Capri Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 286-2999
Congregation Beth Israel / Sid Rubin Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Congregation Beth Israel's Sid Rubin Preschool is consistently praised as a warm, welcoming Jewish community with exceptional staff and clergy. Parents highlight the strong musical programming, inclusive atmosphere, and child development professionals, though one reviewer noted it feels less personalized despite its quality. The facility is commended for fostering spiritual growth and community connection for families of all ages.

Warm and welcoming communityexcept
Address
9001 Towne Centre Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 900-2530
The French Montessori Preschool Of San Diego
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

The French Montessori Preschool of San Diego receives mostly positive reviews, with parents praising the bilingual and trilingual education, caring teachers, and supportive environment. However, one parent raised concerns about high teacher turnover and limited owner communication after enrollment.

Bilingual/trilingual instruction (EnglishSpanishFrench)
Address
4011 Ohio Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 501-3787
College Ave Pre-School
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

College Ave Preschool receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from most parents, who praise the dedicated staff, experienced director Lara Blouin, secure facilities, and strong child development outcomes. However, one parent reported concerns about a teacher's behavior, including yelling and physical handling of their child.

Experienced and attentive directordedicated and caring staffchild development and learning
Address
4747 College Ave, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 583-7111
Die Rasselbande Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Die Rasselbande Preschool is a highly-regarded bilingual German-English preschool that uses a play-based learning approach. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, strong community atmosphere, and the school's effectiveness in teaching German immersion while fostering social-emotional development. Children reportedly develop confidence, peer interaction skills, and problem-solving abilities that benefit them in elementary school.

Play-based learning philosophyGerman language immersion with native speakerscaring and attentive teachers
Address
6747 Amherst Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 465-4420
Grace Kids Christian Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Grace Kids Christian Preschool receives consistently high praise from parents who appreciate its warm, faith-based environment and caring staff. Parents report their children are happy, engaged, and developing well socially and academically. The facility is described as safe, secure, and clean with strong leadership.

loving and patient staffwarm welcoming environmentfaith-based curriculum
Address
2716 Madison Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 269-8080
International Pre-School
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

International Pre-School in San Diego receives overwhelmingly positive reviews (6 five-star ratings) praising the caring staff, strong academic preparation, and performing arts curriculum. However, one parent reported their child with behavioral and emotional regulation issues was unenrolled without proper accommodations or evaluation, alleging the school failed to follow California disability law.

Caring and seasoned teaching staffstrong academic curriculumchild
Address
5940 Winchester Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 479-2410
Ridge City Preschool And Daycare
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Ridge City Preschool and Daycare in San Diego receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with nine 5-star reviews praising the loving, caring staff and clean facilities. One 3-star review noted the daycare lacks modern communication technology and raised concerns about how staff handled certain behavioral situations.

Caring and loving staffclean facilitiesstructured curriculum
Address
6866 Linda Vista Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 277-1442
Hillcrest Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Hillcrest Preschool receives unanimous 5-star ratings from parents who praise the caring, experienced teachers, nurturing environment, and strong educational curriculum. Parents highlight the small, intimate community feel, affordable pricing, convenient hours, and new facilities as major strengths. The leadership and staff are consistently described as genuinely invested in children's development and family partnerships.

Caring and experienced teacherssmall community feel where staff know all children and familiesnurturing and safe environment
Address
3900 Cleveland Ave, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 295-4147
St. Andrew'S Lutheran Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Unable to provide accurate daycare review summary. The reviews provided are for St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, not the preschool program. All 10 reviews focus on church services and community rather than childcare quality, curriculum, or preschool operations.

None relevant to daycare operations
Address
8350 Lake Murray Boulevard, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 469-3531
Northminster Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5

Northminster Preschool receives consistently high praise from parents for its warm, nurturing environment and exceptional staff who genuinely care for each child. Parents highlight the school's small class sizes, personalized attention, strong arts programs, and successful transitions to kindergarten. Multiple families report significant growth in their children's confidence, social skills, and academic readiness.

Caring and patient teacherssmall class sizes with l
Address
4324 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 270-3760
Saint Michael Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5

Saint Michael Preschool receives predominantly positive reviews (7 five-star ratings) praising the dedicated staff, family-like environment, and STEM-focused Catholic curriculum. One negative review criticized the director's unprofessional conduct during a tour and harsh enrollment policies.

Dedicated and well-trained stafffamily-oriented environmentSTEM-focused curriculum
Address
2637 Homedale Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 472-5437
Toby Wells Ymca Developmental Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5

Toby Wells YMCA is highly praised for its comprehensive facilities, quality instruction, and friendly staff. Parents highlight excellent preschool programming with intentional activities, strong teacher-student relationships, and included amenities like swimming and gymnastics. The facility is clean, well-maintained, and offers diverse programs for children and families year-round.

Quality instruction and teacher-student relationshipsincluded swimming and gymnastics classesnice facilities (indoor pool
Address
5105 Overland Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 496-9622
Grace Lutheran Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.4

Reviews appear to be for Grace Lutheran Church's worship services rather than the preschool program itself. Most reviewers praise the liturgical experience, theology, community, and worship environment. One reviewer reported a negative interaction with leadership.

Beautiful worship space and architecturereverent liturgical servicesquality music and hymns
Address
3967 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 299-2890
Seaside Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.1

Seaside Preschool receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from current parents, who praise the warm environment, skilled and caring staff, and balanced approach to learning and play. One prospective parent reported difficulty accessing enrollment information due to a long waiting list. The daycare appears to excel at supporting children's social and emotional development in a welcoming setting.

Patient and nurturing teacherswarm and welcoming environmentthoughtfully designed space
Address
1201 Turquoise Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 581-0725
Bay Point State Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
2850 Wasp Way, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 221-2936
Panda Bear Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
4998 Via Valarta, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 576-2327
Playhouse Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.9

Playhouse Preschool receives mostly positive feedback, with parents praising the staff's warmth and care, noting significant developmental progress in their children. However, one parent reported a negative experience, citing dishonesty, unreliability, and unprofessionalism, though this appears to be an isolated complaint against a specific location.

friendly and caring staffchildren are happystaff treats families like family
Address
6545 Balboa Avenue Ste. B, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 279-2009
Copley-Price Family Ymca Preschool Child Care
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.8

Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, praising the facility's cleanliness, friendly staff, and quality amenities. Parents appreciate the well-maintained gym equipment, pools, and family-friendly atmosphere. The location is noted as one of the best among YMCA branches.

Clean facilityfriendly and helpful staffmodern equipment
Address
4300 El Cajon Boulevard, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 280-9622
Crown Point Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.8

Crown Point Junior Music Academy is a highly-rated magnet school serving Pre-K through 5th grade with an exceptional music program. Parents consistently praise the dedicated teachers, caring administration, strong Suzuki violin curriculum, and welcoming community atmosphere. The school recently completed construction renovations and offers multiple after-school enrichment programs.

Award-winning music program with Suzuki violin instructiondedicated and caring teachersprincipal who knows students by name
Address
4033 Ingraham Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 987-5500
Mission Nazarene Preschool-Infant
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.7
Address
4750 Mission Gorge Place, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 287-4900
Mission Nazarene Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.7
Address
4750 Mission Gorge Place, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 287-4900
Rising Star Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.4

Rising Star Preschool San Diego receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents who praise the attentive, knowledgeable staff and director Ms. Rachelle for accommodating individual child needs, supporting developmental milestones, and being military-family friendly. However, two negative reviews reference concerns about a specific staff member's behavior and broader management issues at other Rising Star locations.

Caring and knowledgeable staffaccommodating to military families and special needsindividual learning tailored to each child
Address
3040 Fairmount Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 213-9356
Carmel Valley Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.3
Address
13340 Hayford Way, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 481-7933

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Frequently asked questions

There are 175 preschools in San Diego, California. Browse our directory to compare programs, read parent reviews, and find the best option for your child.
Most preschool programs in San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego, 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