It's hard to describe what an amazing school this is. I stumbled upon it almost by chance when my…read moreson had to quickly find a new school due to him not liking the language immersion school I had initially enrolled him in. As a first time parent, I was of course focused on setting up my son for the best academic future possible and was looking at academically focused pre-schools like Stratford. Visiting that school, I had a mixed feeling of hope for the future, and sadness to see pre-schoolers lined up in those tiny desks doing work. The playground was quiet on the day I visited and there was a little girl crying. Was it really necessary to start my baby boy on the Gerbil wheel of life so soon? In contrast, my first impression of Petite Sorbonne was of the crazy noise and sound of laughter. It was a bit overwhelming initially, but it seemed like kids were everywhere. As Teacher June gave me a tour of the grounds (a large Victorian house), she was interrupted every few minutes by a kid giving her a hug or telling her "I love you". The kids just played together and were so happy, the way childhood is supposed to be. I went with my gut. I'm writing this review with the benefit of hindsight. My son is now in 4th grade and at the top of his class academically. He's in the honors class at Russian school of Math. But most importantly, he truly loves learning, has what seems to be a bottomless well of curiosity, and makes friends so easily. Teachers June and Vanessa are the most amazing educators and developers of global citizens. They teach the important things in life--what it means to be a part of a Community, how to treat yourself and others with respect. Your children will have traditions from this school, from the blooming and nurturing of the garden, finding of treasures in the playground sand, to the trouble that leprechauns bring. They will have so much fun doing it! The years that your child will spend at this school are like a gift. They will be filled with laughter, love, play, friendship and happiness.

PSP (Petite Sorbonne Preschool) has been a wonderful place for our children to learn and grow as…read morecapable and compassionate kids. Teacher June has been running this business for decades and provides a very nurturing environment for our little ones that has been thoughtfully laid out with different activity focused rooms, as well as a nice playground for outside time. Kids come to the window to say goodbye, and are in a good mood when they're picked up. You know they've had a nice day. We've had two children attend years ago and they still have lasting friendships! We're back with our 3rd child, and we're glad we came! Parking can be a little annoying, and cost wise, doesn't make sense for part time as there isn't that much of a difference between full and part time (as it essentially takes a spot). And your child must be "mostly" potty trained to attend. There are cheaper options, but there are also considerably more expensive options as well in the area. At under $2K/mo for full time, I think it's well priced for the environment and what is provided. We hope you love it as much as we do!

We have loved our years at Kinder Academy, where both my sons graduated (one in 2021, and one in…read more2025). They have learned so much about how to be friends, have joy in learning, and have had so many special performances, experiences, and memories while there -- all while developing a strong educational foundation that has served them well into elementary school. The teachers are so patient and kind, and the program is incredibly well organized and thoughtful. Teachers, teachers, thanks so much! We will miss you very much! xo

My child just graduated from Kinder Academy Montessori, and I couldn't be any happier with her…read moreprogress. We only attended for one year, but in that year I've witnessed tremendous growth in her academically and socially. She is happy, confident, reading at a 1st grade level at the age of 5, and has lots of friends. I was especially impressed to see how KAM transitioned in new teachers. Two long-time teachers were retiring, and they brought in new teachers for 6 months prior to the veteran teachers retiring, so they could learn the school's rhythms and also the children had plenty of time to get used to the new teachers. Between my kids, this is the 4th preschool they've attended and KAM handled this transition the best I've ever seen. I recognize that a transition like this is very costly from a financial perspective but it is honestly the best and most healthy option for the students. I feel so grateful for a supportive, nurturing, and loving community that puts the students first. I give KAM my highest recommendation.

My wife and I are so grateful for Highland! Our son transitioned to Highland a couple months ago…read moreand even in that short period of time we've seen such growth. He comes home happy and excited for school. We not only appreciate their philosophy in discipline (which is a positive redirecting approach) and teaching but their creative curriculum and the overall love they have for each student. We look forward to their daily and weekly updates in person, on their app and email. The teachers are warm and kind. We highly recommend Highland for any parent looking for an amazing preschool!

We submitted an application at the beginning of the year and never heard back from them, even after…read morefollowing up multiple times to request updates. If you charge an application fee you should at least grant us the courtesy of calling us and letting us know that our application was not accepted. Thankfully we were able to find daycare for our daughter elsewhere.

My kid has been going there for months and just left this place for a better environment. I felt…read morelike it is time for a review. He was getting sick once or twice literally every month. The facility inside is well lit and organized but however has no openable windows for positive airflow and no adequate HVAC system filtering the airs, thus the main suspect of him getting easily sick besides kids being kids! The main concern of this place and the worse was during the months my kid was there 90% of the directors and teachers are replaced and came and gone!!! This placed has gone thru 2 directors within months and all the teachers except the older teacher Fang Fang were either quit or terminated without any notice to us parents!!! If the retention rate is so low and turn over rate of teachers are so ridiculously high, how can our kids adjust mentally and psychologically to the constant changes of teachers!!!Recently, our parents were given 1 day notice of a director leaving this place??? Seriously? If the directors and teachers were not happy, how can our kids be?? The upper management should pay attention on fixing and treating their most valuable assets (directors and teachers)better, otherwise this place is the worst place to send your kids to grow and learn!

This review is solely based on the visiting experience. Big deal breaker- there is no real outdoor…read moreplayground. This place basically converted an underground garage into a playground. How could kids grow in an environment without the sun everyday?! They have a very tiny garden though-however I can't imagine how much outdoor time they would get from this. Second big concern: this school seems have a big teacher turnover rate. The director was changed to a different person within two weeks when we contacted the school vs when we visited. The classrooms were quiet as Death Valley when we visited. As an elementary school teacher I can tell you that a classroom for young kids isn't supposed to be as quiet as this. When it is, there is something wrong. Again this review is solely based on visiting experience. But I would never send my kiddo to a place like this.

My daughter attended Beresford Montessori for over 3 years, and during that time she blossomed…read moreacademically and socially, thanks to the care and dedication of the teachers there. The teachers guided my daughter in every aspect of her growth, including forming friendships, learning to read and write, math skills, learning to speak in front of a group, playing well with other kids, and much more. She developed from a quiet and reserved child, to a notably more confident and socially well-adjusted child. Her experience and growth at Beresford prepared her extremely well for the transition to elementary school. Also, my daughter attended the school during the years surrounding the COVID pandemic, and the dedication that Ms. Karina and all the teachers showed to continue teaching and nurturing the children was incredible. Thanks to the teachers' expertise, my daughter actually learned to start reading during the pandemic through remote teaching sessions, which is amazing! When she returned in person to the classroom, she was able to continue her education as if we had hardly lost any time during the pandemic. We also valued the community of families at the school, and have continued to maintain strong friendships with other families after graduating. Overall, we are extremely pleased with our experience at Beresford, and are deeply grateful for the wonderful teachers and families at the school.

A Truly Special Preschool Beresford Montessori…read more Our family has had a long and wonderful history with Beresford Montessori, specifically the Gum Street location in San Mateo. Ms. Karina, the owner, is an incredible educator and highly trained, kind, and deeply dedicated to creating a nurturing environment for children. One of the most remarkable aspects of this school is its staff; many of the teachers have worked there for decades, which speaks volumes about the positive and supportive community Ms. Karina has built. The classrooms are beautifully maintained, warm, and inviting, making it a place where children feel at home. The staff is not only professional but also incredibly loving and it truly feels like family. My older niece and nephew attended Beresford Montessori years ago, and when my daughter started eight years later, she had the same wonderful teachers. That continuity and experience are invaluable. I can't recommend this school enough to family and friends. Even now, my daughter loves to visit whenever she can and often says she wishes she could still go there! The Montessori method gave her such a strong foundation, fostering independence, confidence, and a love for learning. We are forever grateful for the lasting impact Beresford Montessori has had on her education and development. If you are looking for a preschool that provides a loving, enriching, and stable environment, this is the place.

My oldest started at St. Paul's during Covid. That period was a tough time for children in general…read moreyet she thrived at St.Paul's so much and had a smooth transition to elementary school (which we were concerned about). I directly credit the wonderful teachers, caring and play-based approach, and magical place that is St. Paul's to her continued success in school. My youngest is now at St. Paul's and as we expected, is having the time of her life. We are still so thrilled with the teachers and school that we will be (again) staying for their Senior program next year, in lieu of our public school TK program.

SPNS is pure magic! Through and through. Both of my kids…read morehave grown and thrived here. The play based approached allowed my children to freely explore and find confidence and independence. My son started SPNS in late 2021. I was so concerned for his socialization after so much isolation having lived through a pandemic at an age when social skills are developing. The teachers at St. Paul's created this beautiful environment of caring and compassion. Each teacher has different special qualities and it's Ben so fun watch my kids connect with each of them. As a parent, even I have learned so much! And I will be forever grateful to the St. Paul's staff for all they have been to us all. While SPNS is lighter on the workload I feel, I do truly feel that the co-op experience has truly been a gift. It has been so special to participate in some way in their early education. We just love this school and it's community!

We absolutely love Safari Kid! The teachers do a great job communicating how the kids days have…read morebeen, and are always kind and friendly. I love the curriculum and my son always comes home talking about different things. Most recently his obsession has been about camels and cactuses. I love that he can learn these facts in an education based environment. The location is alway clean, and the communication is great. The teachers send photos every day including little notes about what the kids have been up to. I have seen a significant improvement in my son's behavior and demeanor since we have been enrolled here. My son comes home every day talking about what Ms.Lupita has said and taught him. We look forward to continuing to learn and grow here!

I cannot recommend Safari Kid enough! The care and attention that the staff provide is truly…read moreexceptional. My preschooler adores Miss Lupita (a total fan), and my toddler cannot get enough of Miss Susana. Every morning, my toddler waves goodbye and runs straight into the arms of his beloved teacher, eager to share about his morning ride (with all the 2-3 words he knows!!). His class teachers are so creative in their approach to teaching littles. As for my preschooler, I have never seen him so excited to go to school. Before Safari Kid, at every daycare (all top-rated on Yelp), our mornings were full of crying and tantrums about why he doesn't want to go or stay at home. Now, he comes home each day bubbling over with stories of the fun things he did and the new things he learned. But what really sets this childcare center apart is the incredible progress both of my children have made since they started attending. Their learning has truly taken off under the guidance of the knowledgeable and caring staff. It's amazing to see how far they've come in such a short amount of time. Thank you Ms. Jocelyn, Ms. Emily, Ms. Tessie, Ms. Sheryl, Ms. Eda, Ms. Kanti, Ms. Manisha and Ms. Jennifer!! We sincerely appreciate Miss Shelly for her leadership, partnership, and guidance with so much patience. Her dedication to creating a warm and nurturing environment for the children is truly remarkable. We do wish the center could start a bit earlier in the day to accommodate parents' office hours, but we understand that the staff have their schedules to manage as well. And it would be a dream come true if the center could start providing lunches - talk about a dream list! However, despite this wishlist, we are still extremely grateful for the amazing care and education that our children receive at this center. The staff truly go above and beyond to create a nurturing and enriching environment for the children. I am honestly stress-free for the first time as a parent regarding childcare! Thank you to the entire team at this childcare center for all that you do! We appreciate you more than words can express.

Our son has been at Genius Learning preschool for the past 2 years. The staff is kind, the hours…read moreare flexible, and our son is learning a lot. They also provide lunch for the students, which is a huge plus! I would highly recommend Genius Learning for any parents interested in a Chinese immersion preschool program.

My son has been here for 4 years now. Great experience overall. We are very happy that we found…read morethis preschool. Lots of pros (open up to 6pm, open all summer, often on holidays, nice teachers, Chinese immersion, good balance of work and play, etc). The only con, which other reviews mention, is the heptic pickup, mostly caused by a few parents trying to maneuver their giant unnecessary pickup trucks in a very small parking space.

Our son joined Nueva's Upper School this year as a 9th grader (class of 2021). We like Nueva's…read morerigorous high school curriculum; a number of advanced courses can be deemed college-level. Its math sequence is very well thought out (e.g., one track for pure math and one for applied math) and allows plenty of room for advanced students to progress beyond calculus. We are pleased to see that our son has been spending a good amount of time at the I-Lab before/after school (helped greatly by his new found independence via the bike+Caltrain combination) and loves every minute of it! Nueva's Upper School teachers are helpful and highly qualified; many are practitioners/experts in their field. Our son's Japanese language teacher has a wonderful sense of Japanese humor that makes language learning so much more enjoyable. The Upper School has an advisory system that allows small groups of students to interact with their advisors, who in turn provide feedback to parents (especially new families!) on how their kids are doing at school from time to time. It's a great way to integrate incoming 9th graders (i.e., many new friends were made over a 3-day camping trip before start of school) and build strong ties between school and families from the get-go. Our son has a great start of the year with Nueva. Its Upper School is one we would highly recommend for families looking for a well-rounded STEM education and great teachers in a supportive environment for their kids.

I initially became interested in The Nueva School after subscribing to receive job postings. What…read moreimmediately stood out to me was how frequently new openings were being posted -- sometimes seemingly every week. As an educator, that naturally made me wonder about staff turnover. Eventually, I applied for a position and interviewed with someone who honestly seemed very kind and thoughtful. I left the interview feeling optimistic, especially because I was told I would hear back by the end of the week. In education hiring, timelines usually move quickly because schools want to secure teachers for the upcoming school year before candidates accept other opportunities. Weeks went by with complete silence. No follow-up, no rejection email, nothing. Wanting to close the loop professionally, I eventually emailed to thank the interviewer for her time and wish her and her team the best for the upcoming year. Oddly, the message bounced back, even though I had been communicating through that exact same email thread previously. At that point, I honestly began wondering whether the communication had somehow been compromised or whether I had fallen into some strange scam situation. I even called the school directly to verify that the interviewer actually worked there, and thankfully she did. The school then provided me with another email address associated with their official domain. I forwarded my message there as well, but once again received no response at all. Whether the message reached her or not, the overall experience felt surprisingly unprofessional and dismissive, especially after what had initially seemed like such a warm interaction. After later reading additional reviews and experiences from others, I ultimately realized this probably was not the right fit for me anyway. Still, basic communication and professional courtesy go a long way, particularly in education, where relationships and respect matter.

We got referred to them by an acquaintance and wow - I'm so glad we decided to go to LW! I love the…read moreteachers - Maggie and Suzanne are so warm, inviting and knowledgeable. I love the set up for the co-op in general and especially the parents round table. When you go to LW, it's not just a class for your kids but a fantastic opportunity to build community. I still keep in touch with a handful of parents I met from LW and I will be back to LW with my second kiddo soon!

Little Wonders is an amazing resource and parent-child community. Last year, I joined their weekly…read moreclass for older 1 year olds with my daughter. She had so much fun playing dress up, exploring new toys and sensory experiences, and making friends. Through Little Wonders, she grew very comfortable with the classroom environment and is feeling super ready for preschool. While my daughter was learning, exploring, and connecting... I was too! Our kind, patient, and endlessly energetic Teacher Suzanne also led parents in thoughtful discussions about child development and our parenting journeys. I also joined the Little Wonders monthly virtual preschool support class. It was a great opportunity to learn about changes in behavior and development during the preschool years, share stories with other parents, and feel less alone while navigating new parenting challenges. I am grateful to have found such a friendly and supportive community. I encourage all parents of young kids to check out Little Wonders!