How do I choose the right preschool in San Rafael?

When selecting a preschool in San Rafael, 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 Rafael, California (15 Results)

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

Preschool costs in San Rafael 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 Rafael

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.

Creart Early Education & Preschool

4.64 score

5(9)

1055 Las Ovejas Ave., #9 & #10, San Rafael, CA · Capacity: 24 children

CreArt Early Education & Preschool in San Rafael receives perfect 5/5 ratings from parents who praise the nurturing, creative environment and dedicated staff led by owner Patricia. Parents consistently highlight their children's happiness, the school's inclusive community, and their peace of mind leaving their children in the center's care.

Loving and nurturing teacherscreative daily activitiesoutdoor playnatural classroom design

Creart Early Education & Preschool-Infant Program

4.64 score

5(9)

1055 Las Ovejas Ave., #9 & #10, San Rafael, CA · Capacity: 18 children

CreArt Early Education & Preschool-Infant Program in San Rafael receives perfect 5/5 ratings from parents who praise the nurturing environment, dedicated staff led by owner Patricia, and creative curriculum. Parents consistently highlight their children's happiness, safety, and strong attachment to teachers, with many noting their children eagerly return to school.

Caring and loving teachersowner Patricia's dedication and personal attentioncreative daily activities including artmusic instruction

Trinity Preschool

4.58 score

5(7)

333 Woodland Ave, San Rafael, CA · Capacity: 92 children

Trinity Preschool receives consistently high praise from parents for its warm, caring environment and well-rounded curriculum that balances learning with play. Parents highlight the dedicated teaching staff, strong academic preparation for kindergarten, and excellent facilities including outdoor spaces. The center is also noted for its flexibility, community atmosphere, and additional offerings like summer camp and extracurricular classes.

Warm and caring environmentclean and organizedexcellent outdoor play areawell-rounded curriculum

Bright Stars Toddler & Preschool

4.4 score

4.6(10)

1055 Las Ovejas Avenue, San Rafael, CA · Capacity: 24 children

Bright Stars Toddler & Preschool in San Rafael receives consistently high praise from parents. Reviews highlight the clean facilities, caring and experienced staff, hands-on ownership, and strong focus on child safety and development. Parents report their children are happy, engaged, and thriving at the center.

Clean facilityfriendly and caring staffexperienced teachershands-on owner (Nahid)

Marin Formative Christian Preschool

4.36 score

4.8(4)

2000 Las Gallinas Avenue, San Rafael, CA · Capacity: 60 children

Ice Cream & Shoe Preschool & Kindergarten INC.

4.31 score

4.5(8)

1055 Las Ovejas, San Rafael, CA · Capacity: 100 children

Ice Cream & Shoe Preschool & Kindergarten receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents, with particular praise for the caring, experienced teaching staff and strong focus on emotional development and individual attention. Parents report significant improvements in their children's social skills, independence, and enthusiasm for school. One unrelated negative review appears to describe an incident with a staff member toward non-students outside of school context.

St. Raphael - Preschool

4.29 score

5(2)

1100 Fifth Avenue, San Rafael, CA · Capacity: 38 children

Novato Enrichment Care-Miss Nicky'S Preschool

4 score

4(1)

360 Nova Albion Way, San Rafael, CA · Capacity: 60 children

Jcc Preschool San Rafael

4 score

200 N. San Pedro Road, San Rafael, CA · Capacity: 150 children

Redeemer Preschool And Day Care

4 score

123 Knight Drive, San Rafael, CA · Capacity: 55 children

Preschools in San Rafael, California

San Rafael has 15 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 Rafael, 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 15 preschools in San Rafael, California. Browse our directory to compare programs, read parent reviews, and find the best option for your child.

Most preschool programs in San Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael, 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

15 Preschools in San Rafael, California

Best Preschools in San Rafael

Browse by type in San Rafael