San Francisco's Best Preschools [Updated 2025]

Having reviewed twelve exceptional programs, I've gathered insights that will help you navigate this important decision for your little ones.

Each preschool has its unique charm and philosophy, catering to different needs and preferences.

From nurturing environments to innovative curricula, there's something here for every family.

San Francisco is rich with options, and I’m excited to share my findings so you can feel confident in your choice.

Whether you're looking for a focus on academics, arts, or social development, this guide is designed to make your search easier.

Let’s dive in and explore what makes each of these preschools stand out!

The Growing Tree School

Highlights
Warm and caring teachers
Inspiring and magical interiors
Focus on Mandarin language
Happy and thriving children
Strong community of friends

The Growing Tree School truly captures the essence of early childhood learning in the heart of San Francisco. Nestled amidst a bustling neighborhood, this preschool radiates warmth and care, thanks to its devoted teachers. As I stepped inside, I was immediately struck by the inspiring and magical interiors that welcome both children and parents alike. The walls are adorned with vibrant artwork created by the little ones, igniting creativity and sparking joy.

What sets The Growing Tree apart is its delightful emphasis on fostering language skills, particularly in Mandarin. It's exhilarating to witness little ones tackle new phrases with eager enthusiasm, creating a diverse and enriching environment. The school adeptly balances playful learning with structured activities. During my visit, I could see the children happily engaged in group games and cooperative play, cultivating friendships that blossom into a supportive community.

Overall, The Growing Tree School stands out as a delightful choice for parents seeking a nurturing and stimulating environment for their young adventurers. If you're looking for a place where creativity meets kindness, this enchanting school is certainly worth considering.

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La Scuola International School | Preschool Campus

Highlights
Beautiful campus
Caring and dedicated teachers
Emphasis on Reggio Emilia philosophy
Integrated curriculum
Strong community involvement

La Scuola International School | Preschool Campus is truly a gem in the heart of San Francisco. Upon stepping onto the beautiful campus, you're instantly enveloped in a warm, vibrant atmosphere that feels like a second home for little ones. The caring and dedicated teachers are not only nurturing but also incredibly engaging, fostering an environment where children's curiosity flourishes.

What truly sets La Scuola apart is its emphasis on the Reggio Emilia philosophy, which encourages exploration and creativity. I was charmed to see children delving into projects that integrate various subjects, making learning a delightful and holistic experience. The integrated curriculum sparks joy in the kids while instilling a love for learning that they'll carry with them for years to come.

Moreover, the strong sense of community involvement adds a delightful touch. Families are actively encouraged to participate, creating a tight-knit and supportive environment. In summary, my visit to La Scuola was inspiring, and I left with the impression that this preschool not only prepares children for academic success but also nurtures their emotional and social growth in a delightful setting. It's a vibrant start to a lifelong journey of learning!

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Blueside Preschool

Highlights
Outdoor adventures daily
Personalized updates and photos
Creative art projects
Supportive and nurturing staff
Development-focused activities

Blueside Preschool is a delightful gem nestled in the heart of San Francisco. As I stepped onto the campus, I was immediately struck by the vibrant energy that engulfed the playground – children giggling as they explored the outdoor adventures daily, flagging me down to join their imaginative escapades.

One of the standout features is how the staff fosters a supportive and nurturing environment. Each educator radiates genuine warmth, ensuring that every child feels valued and encouraged to express themselves. I particularly loved the way they send personalized updates and photos to parents, allowing families to cherish these precious moments as they unfold.

As I wandered through the colorful classrooms, I observed the children engrossed in creative art projects, showcasing their boundless imagination. The activities are all thoughtfully designed to focus on development, striking that perfect balance between learning and play.

In a city that thrives on innovation, Blueside Preschool delivers an engaging, forward-thinking approach to early education. I left feeling truly inspired by the nurturing atmosphere they cultivate and confident that children here are not just prepared for school, but are thriving as happy little explorers!

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Little People Preschool and KG preparatory program

Highlights
Caring and attentive staff
Engaging curriculum and activities
Healthy meals provided
Soccer and gymnastics classes
Strong social development focus

At Little People Preschool, I felt the warmth and dedication of the staff instantly. Their caring and attentive approach to each child creates an environment where little ones can flourish. The engaging curriculum is impressively designed to spark curiosity and foster creativity. I was particularly dazzled by the variety of activities that intertwine learning and play—something that makes every day an adventure for the children!

Nutrition is also a noteworthy priority here, as healthy meals are provided to ensure young minds grow strong and sharp. I enjoyed watching the kids thrive during their soccer and gymnastics classes, where they not only develop physical skills but also important teamwork values.

What stood out most was the school’s strong focus on social development; the staff actively encourages collaboration and communication among peers, allowing kids to build friendships that last a lifetime. Overall, my visit to Little People left me with a profound appreciation for the thoughtful programming and nurturing atmosphere they offer. If you’re seeking a delightful preschool experience in San Francisco, look no further than Little People Preschool—it’s truly a magical place for those tiny feet!

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The Maria Montessori School Of The Golden Gate Co.

Highlights
Excellent teacher, Ms. Tara
Focus on curiosity and growth
Strong kindergarten preparation
Award-winning Montessori program
Long-standing community presence

Stepping into The Maria Montessori School Of The Golden Gate Co. felt like entering a vibrant world where curiosity reigns supreme! Under the guidance of the exceptional Ms. Tara, the children are not just students; they are explorers in a carefully crafted environment that promotes growth and independence.

The school's emphasis on nurturing curiosity sets it apart, encouraging little ones to ask questions and seek answers. I witnessed children diving into hands-on activities, their faces lighting up with discovery. It's heartwarming to see a program that cultivates such a genuine love for learning.

Moreover, the school offers a strong foundation for kindergarten readiness. The preparation for transitioning to the next educational phase is seamless and well thought out. As an award-winning Montessori program, it truly encapsulates the essence of what Montessori education stands for—freedom within limits, respect for a child’s natural psychological development, and the pursuit of knowledge through exploration.

With its long-standing presence in the community, this preschool is a treasure trove of magical moments and meaningful learning. In my opinion, The Maria Montessori School encapsulates what makes preschools special in San Francisco—providing a space where children can grow, thrive, and become the best versions of themselves!

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Laurel Hill Nursery School

Highlights
Exceptional caring teachers
Nurturing, inclusive community
Play-based, engaging curriculum
Strong parent involvement
Supports child’s individual pace

Laurel Hill Nursery School truly stands out as a gem in the San Francisco preschool landscape. Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the warm, inviting atmosphere that envelops both children and adults alike. The exceptional caring teachers foster not only a safe environment but also a space where curiosity thrives.

One of the school's strongest assets is its nurturing and inclusive community. It’s heartwarming to see how every child feels valued, and the diverse backgrounds represented create a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives. The play-based curriculum ensures that learning happens naturally through engaging activities, whether it’s painting, building, or storytelling. This approach wonderfully supports each child's individual pace, allowing them to grow and explore without pressure.

What also impressed me was the level of parent involvement. They organize events that connect families and staff, building a true sense of belonging. It’s clear that every aspect of Laurel Hill is thoughtfully designed to promote both growth and joy. For any parent seeking an enriching preschool experience, I wholeheartedly recommend Laurel Hill Nursery School—it’s a place where children thrive and laughter is the order of the day!

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Montessori Children's House of the West Coast

Highlights
Outstanding, tenured teaching team
Strong emphasis on social skills
Supportive and engaged community
Lifelong friendships fostered
Encourages independence and confidence

Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Francisco, Montessori Children's House of the West Coast truly stands out as an exemplary preschool option. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I was greeted by a warm and engaging atmosphere, largely thanks to the outstanding, tenured teaching team. Each educator radiated a genuine passion for nurturing young minds, ensuring that children thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment.

One of the most impressive aspects of this school is its strong emphasis on social skills. Children are encouraged to engage, collaborate, and explore friendships that often last a lifetime. It’s delightful to witness young ones growing not just academically but also as confident, independent individuals. The curriculum seamlessly blends play with learning, cultivating a natural curiosity that is simply contagious!

Moreover, the community aspect of Montessori Children's House is heartwarming. Parents are welcomed into the fold, fostering connections that extend beyond the classroom. In this nurturing environment, I felt confident that my child would not only receive a fantastic education but also be surrounded by lasting friendships and lifelong memories. If you’re sailing through the sea of preschool options in San Francisco, this spot is surely a gem worth considering!

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Wise Forest Preschool

Highlights
Warm and welcoming environment
In-depth nature exploration
Imaginative and creative play
Responsive and communicative staff
Supportive during difficult times

Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Francisco, Wise Forest Preschool offers a truly enchanting experience for young learners. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a warm and welcoming environment that feels like a home away from home. The bright, imaginative spaces are designed to spark creativity in our little ones, encouraging them to explore and invent through play-based learning.

One of the most captivating aspects of Wise Forest is their dedication to in-depth nature exploration. The educators seamlessly integrate outdoor activities, allowing children to connect with the environment while fostering a sense of curiosity. It's an absolute delight to see kids crawling through the grass, gathering leaves, and even creating their own little adventures in the outdoors!

The staff is incredibly responsive and communicative, ensuring that parents feel connected and informed every step of the way. They also provide unwavering support, especially during difficult times, making them not only educators but also trusted allies in your child's development.

In short, Wise Forest Preschool is a nurturing haven where creativity, nature, and compassionate care come together, making it a standout choice for any family in the city!

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L'Academy Mandarin Immersion Preschool San Francisco Hayes Valley

Highlights
Loving and nurturing teachers
Strong community among families
Daily updates via mobile app
Focus on child development
Recognizable Mandarin phrases

Stepping into L'Academy Mandarin Immersion Preschool in Hayes Valley felt like entering a magical world of learning and play. The atmosphere is filled with laughter and the warm smiles of loving and nurturing teachers, who truly understand the art of engaging young minds. What sets this preschool apart is its strong community among families—a supportive network where relationships flourish and parents are actively involved.

As I observed a group of children happily singing in Mandarin, I was charmed by how naturally those recognizable Mandarin phrases rolled off their tongues. This immersion approach not only enhances language skills but also broadens cultural awareness from a tender age. Daily updates via a user-friendly mobile app keep parents connected and informed, creating a seamless bridge between home and school life.

I was particularly impressed with their emphasis on child development, fostering not just academic growth but also social and emotional skills. At L'Academy, every child is seen, heard, and celebrated, making it a standout choice for families seeking a nurturing environment. If you’re looking for a preschool that combines language immersion with all-around development, L'Academy is undoubtedly a gem worth considering!

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Montessori School of San Francisco

Highlights
Loving and caring teachers
Stimulating environment
Strong parent-teacher partnership
Focus on children's development
Warm and welcoming atmosphere

Montessori School of San Francisco left an indelible impression on me during my recent visit. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I was greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere that immediately put both children and parents at ease. The school fosters a stimulating environment, brimming with educational materials tailored to young minds.

What truly sets this preschool apart is its loving and caring teachers. Their dedication is palpable; you can see how they nurture each child’s unique abilities and interests. I observed interactions filled with joy and encouragement, creating a delightful backdrop for learning. Additionally, the school’s emphasis on a strong parent-teacher partnership stands out. Parents are not just observers; they are integral to the community, actively engaged in the educational journey.

At Montessori School of San Francisco, the focus on children's development is unwavering. Here, kids are inspired to explore, create, and learn at their own pace, ensuring they leave not just with knowledge but with confidence and curiosity about the world around them. If you are searching for a quality preschool, this gem in the city is definitely worth considering!

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Seabird Preschool

Highlights
Kind and encouraging teachers
Warm and loving environment
Positive growth and development
Exciting and engaging curriculum
Thoughtful and memorable events

Seabird Preschool truly embodies a nurturing haven for our little explorers. The moment I stepped through the doors, I was enveloped by a warm and loving environment that resonates with kindness and encouragement, allowing each child's personality to shine. The teachers here are exceptionally engaging; their passion for fostering a sense of curiosity is palpable.

With an exciting and engaging curriculum, Seabird isn’t just about play; it’s about meaningful discovery. Children are invited to explore the world around them through activities that spark their imaginations and promote positive growth and development. During my visit, I was delighted to witness a group of children fully immersed in a hands-on art project, which was not only colorful but also a great testament to their creativity.

Moreover, Seabird hosts thoughtful and memorable events that not only strengthen the bond among the students but also foster a sense of community for families. Overall, I can confidently say that Seabird Preschool is a delightful choice for parents seeking a place where their children can thrive both socially and cognitively, making it one of the best preschools in San Francisco!

Little Star Preschool Too

Highlights
Promotes social and emotional growth
Diverse and engaging activities
Strong communication with parents
Warm and loving environment
Fun cultural and holiday events

Little Star Preschool Too is truly a gem hidden in the vibrant streets of San Francisco! My visit revealed a warm, inviting environment where every corner bursts with creativity and joy. The teachers are wonderfully attentive and dedicated to fostering both social and emotional growth in their little learners. I was particularly enchanted by the diverse and engaging activities that encourage exploration and curiosity—it's all about making learning fun!

Parents benefit from strong communication with the staff, ensuring a holistic understanding of their child’s development. There’s a palpable sense of community here, with the warm atmosphere making it feel almost like a second home for the children. And let's not forget the array of fun cultural and holiday events that keep the excitement alive throughout the year!

The commitment of the educators to nurturing each child’s individuality is evident, making Little Star Preschool Too stand out among other options in the city. If you're on the hunt for a preschool that combines love, learning, and laughter, this is definitely a place worth exploring. Your little one will thrive in such a supportive and joyful environment!