How do I choose the right preschool in San Mateo?

When selecting a preschool in San Mateo, 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

Preschools in San Mateo, California (13 Results)

Q: How much does preschool cost in San Mateo, California?

Preschool costs in San Mateo 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 San Mateo

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.

Early Bird Preschool

4.49 score

4.7(12)

120 Lindbergh Street, San Mateo, CA · Capacity: 34 children

Building Kidz of San Mateo is highly praised by parents for its caring, family-like atmosphere and strong leadership under Director Kay. The center offers excellent value with reasonable tuition, provided meals, and a well-rounded curriculum featuring performing arts, music, and dance. Parents consistently report that their children thrive socially and academically in this welcoming environment.

Caring and engaged staffDirector Kay's involvement and communication

Intelligent Learning Preschool

4.44 score

5(4)

217 N Grant Street, San Mateo, CA · Capacity: 35 children

Foster City Pre-School And Day Care Center

4.35 score

4.7(5)

1685 Eishenhower Street, San Mateo, CA · Capacity: 96 children

Foster City Preschool receives consistently high praise from parents for its nurturing environment, quality teachers, and comprehensive curriculum. Parents report their children thrive academically and socially, with strong preparation for kindergarten. Multiple families have enrolled multiple children and recommend the center highly.

Warm and caring teachers who genuinely love childrenclean and nurturing environmenthigh educational standardswell-rounded 360-degree development approach

A+ Immersion Preschool II

4.29 score

5(2)

30 W. 39th Avenue, San Mateo, CA · Capacity: 90 children

Bright Beginnings Toddler/Preschool

4 score

30 Hobart Avenue, San Mateo, CA · Capacity: 23 children

Chai Preschool

4 score

137 North San Mateo Drive, San Mateo, CA · Capacity: 30 children

Chai Preschool INC.

4 score

115 Monte Diablo, San Mateo, CA · Capacity: 35 children

Petite Sorbonne Preschool

4 score

319 E. Santa Inez Avenue, San Mateo, CA · Capacity: 36 children

Empire Preschool

4 score

3080 La Selva Street, San Mateo, CA · Capacity: 102 children

Preschools in San Mateo, California

San Mateo has 13 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 Mateo, 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 13 preschools in San Mateo, California. Browse our directory to compare programs, read parent reviews, and find the best option for your child.

Most preschool programs in San Mateo 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 Mateo 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 Mateo 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 Mateo, 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

13 Preschools in San Mateo, California

Best Preschools in San Mateo

Browse by type in San Mateo