How do I choose the right preschool in Santa Monica?

When selecting a preschool in Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica, California (13 Results)

Q: How much does preschool cost in Santa Monica, California?

Preschool costs in Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica

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.

10th Street Preschool

4.56 score

4.7(20)

1444 10th Street, Santa Monica, CA · Capacity: 43 children

10th Street Preschool (now Big & Tiny 10th Street) receives consistently excellent feedback from parents who praise the caring, attentive staff and warm, community-focused environment. Parents highlight the play-based curriculum, flexible scheduling, on-site co-working space, and strong sense of belonging among families. Children reportedly feel safe, excited to attend, and develop confidence and independence.

Attentive and caring teacherswelcoming and inclusive en

Kigala Preschool

4.56 score

4.7(20)

2705 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, CA · Capacity: 60 children

Parents consistently praise Kigala Preschool for its bilingual language programs (German and Spanish), warm and caring teachers, and strong sense of community. The school emphasizes outdoor learning, creative play, and project-based activities in well-equipped classrooms and outdoor spaces. All reviewers report their children thrived academically and socially, with lasting friendships formed among both children and parents.

Bilingual/immersion language programscaring and patient teacherssmall class sizesoutdoor classroom used in all weather

Garden Of Angels Preschool

4.55 score

5(6)

1001-1009 18th St., Santa Monica, CA · Capacity: 59 children

Parents consistently praise Garden of Angels Preschool as an exceptional early learning environment. They highlight the professional and committed staff, engaging curriculum that combines art, culture, and outdoor education, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Multiple families report strong outcomes and high satisfaction, with some noting their children's academic success in elementary school.

Professional and dedicated teachersengaging curriculum with art and cultureindoor-outdoor educationbalanced play-based and structured learning

The Lighthouse Church Preschool

4.44 score

5(4)

1511 20th Street, Santa Monica, CA · Capacity: 54 children

Les Infants INC. Preschool

4.38 score

5(3)

2702 Virginia Avenue, Santa Monica, CA · Capacity: 37 children

Gan Israel Preschool

4.17 score

5(1)

1341 9th St, Santa Monica, CA · Capacity: 45 children

Piper Preschool

4.06 score

4.2(2)

807 Arizona Avenue, Santa Monica, CA · Capacity: 175 children

Circle Of Children Preschool

4 score

4(1)

1227 Montana Avenue, Santa Monica, CA · Capacity: 40 children

First United Methodist Church Preschool

4 score

4(1)

1008 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA · Capacity: 128 children

Cassidy Preschool

4 score

2122 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA · Capacity: 84 children

Preschools in Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica, California. Browse our directory to compare programs, read parent reviews, and find the best option for your child.

Most preschool programs in Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica, California

Best Preschools in Santa Monica

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