The 30 Best Whole child approach to learning in California

Safari Kid in Redwood City, California, is a primary school that celebrates childhood and focuses on whole-child development. The curriculum is inspired by traditional methods such as Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf, as well as current brain research on early childhood development. The institution offers daycare, preschool, and after-school programs for children from kindergarten through 8th grade. The nurturing environment aims to ignite curiosity and encourage lifelong learning, with a balance of learning and play. The center provides high-quality care for infants, focusing on proper brain development through sensory-rich experiences. Toddlers, known as "Safari Cubs," engage in activities that promote social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. The institution also offers courses in critical thinking, communication skills, drama, engineering, computer readiness, and leadership development. The founder, Ms. Shy Mudakavi, has a background in child development, HR management, and commerce. With a global chain of preschools and after-school programs, Safari Kid aims to provide a nurturing and caring environment for children to thrive.

Shining Star Bilingual Montessori is a top-rated school located at 610 20th Street in San Francisco, California, United States. Our institution offers a unique bilingual English-Mandarin Montessori-based preschool program for children aged 18 months to 6 years old in the Potrero Hill, Dogpatch, and Mission Bay areas. Our modern and calming environment is designed to welcome all children and families, fostering exploration and growth both independently and in a group setting. At Shining Star, we prioritize creating a warm and nurturing community where children can develop in a structured classroom with love, faith, confidence, and independence. Our goal is to provide a happy place for happy students, families, and teachers, ensuring that students feel excited and eager to come to school every day. Our highly qualified and professional staff is dedicated to offering optimal learning experiences for all ages.

The Primary School - East Bay is a groundbreaking institution located at 750 Fargo Avenue in San Leandro, California. As a primary school, we are dedicated to bringing together all the key adults in a child's life - including parents, educators, and medical and mental health providers - from a very young age. Our innovative school model starts several years before kindergarten and integrates health care services, focusing on building parent wellbeing alongside academic success. With our flagship school in East Palo Alto, a newly opened school in the East Bay, and an early childhood program in San Francisco, we are committed to expanding our reach to new communities.

Sweet Hearts Preschool, located at 2720 South Bascom Avenue in San Jose, California, is a progressive and holistic early childhood education institution. We understand that each child is unique, with their own needs and interests, and we provide the environment and tools necessary for them to thrive to the best of their abilities. Our educational programs are designed to help children mature and develop in a safe yet stimulating environment. At Sweet Hearts Preschool, we believe in the importance of imaginative play, outdoor play, art, courtesy and manners, early language arts, math and science, geography, and botany. Through a variety of activities and experiences, we aim to help children develop socially, emotionally, physically, and academically. Our goal is to prepare children for the next stage of their young lives, giving them the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

The Waldorf School of the Peninsula - Mountain View Campus is a secondary school located at 180 North Rengstorff Avenue in Mountain View, California, United States. Established in 1984, this school was founded by parents and educators who recognized the importance of addressing the heart and will, in addition to the mind, of the child. The school's philosophy, curriculum, and environment are all built upon a whole-child approach. At the Waldorf School of the Peninsula - Mountain View Campus, students receive a well-rounded education that nurtures their physical, emotional, and intellectual development. The campus itself is a beautiful and welcoming environment that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and social responsibility.

Mandala Children's House is a nurturing and inclusive school located at 5038 Hyland Avenue in San Jose, California. Our institution is dedicated to providing a holistic education for children, focusing on their social, emotional, and academic development. With a warm and welcoming environment, our experienced teachers create a safe space for children to explore and learn through play-based activities. At Mandala Children's House, we believe in fostering creativity, curiosity, and a love for learning in every child. Join us in shaping the future generation of confident and compassionate individuals.

Pacific Elementary School is located at 6201 41st Street in Sacramento, California, United States. As part of the Sacramento City Unified School District, we cater to students in grades TK-6. Our school is situated next to Pacific Park and embraces a diverse community. At Pacific Elementary, we focus on providing a well-rounded education that includes social emotional learning, science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. We have a student support center on-site to assist those who may be facing social, emotional, behavioral, or academic challenges.

Tara Redwood Preschool is a nurturing and innovative school located at 4951 Soquel Drive in Soquel, California. Our institution provides a holistic approach to early childhood education, focusing on the development of the whole child - mind, body, and spirit. With a beautiful natural setting and a team of dedicated and experienced teachers, we offer a stimulating and supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Our curriculum is inspired by principles of mindfulness, creativity, and sustainability, ensuring that each child receives a well-rounded education that prepares them for future success. Come visit us and see how Tara Redwood Preschool is shaping the future leaders of tomorrow.

Oasis Charter Public School, located in Salinas, California, is a tuition-free school serving children from Kindergarten through 6th grade. The school's curriculum is guided by the California State Curriculum Standards and focuses on project-based learning. With small class sizes and a constructivist approach, Oasis aims to foster responsible citizenship skills, literacy, logical thinking, and creative problem solving in its students. The school provides a variety of academic experiences in math, English-language arts, social studies, science, physical education, and the arts. The school's philosophy is based on the Constructionist Theory, which views learning as a process of adapting existing ideas to construct new knowledge. The Executive Director, who has 25 years of experience in education, is dedicated to providing a supportive and engaging learning environment for students. Oasis values the development of the whole child, ensuring that students feel comfortable, competent, and safe while also focusing on academics.

Crossroads Christian School is a premier educational institution located at 145 Wright Avenue in the beautiful city of Morgan Hill, California, United States. As a school, we provide a nurturing and academically rigorous environment for students to grow and thrive. Our dedicated faculty and staff are committed to helping each student reach their full potential, both academically and spiritually. At Crossroads Christian School, we strive to instill values of faith, integrity, and excellence in all aspects of our students' lives. Join us in shaping the leaders of tomorrow at Crossroads Christian School.

Bauer Speck Elementary School is a vibrant primary school located at 401 17th Street in Paso Robles, California, United States. Our school is dedicated to providing a nurturing and supportive learning environment for students in their formative years. With a focus on academic excellence and personal growth, our dedicated faculty and staff work tirelessly to ensure that each child reaches their full potential. At Bauer Speck Elementary School, we believe in fostering a love for learning and empowering our students to become responsible and compassionate members of society. Join us in shaping the future leaders of tomorrow at Bauer Speck Elementary School.

Wishing Well School, located at 880 Manzanita Drive in Baywood-Los Osos, California, is a primary school inspired by Waldorf education. Our program goes beyond traditional academics to meet the needs of the whole child, instilling a reverence for academic excellence, artistic expression, social integration, and practical life skills. With a focus on cultivating social and emotional intelligence, as well as academic excellence, we provide a strong foundation for our students to become self-motivated, lifelong learners and responsible citizens of society. For over 13 years, Wishing Well has been helping Central Coast parents raise confident, self-reliant, resilient, and morally intelligent children. Our approach emphasizes the development of character, human resilience, creative problem-solving, and compassionate intelligence, empowering our students to bring goodness, beauty, and truth into the world. Join us at Wishing Well School and be a part of a community that values education, community, and holistic development for every child.

The Waldorf School of Santa Barbara, located at 7421 Mirano Drive in Goleta, California, is a school that offers a love-based education that honors the whole child. The school is committed to providing a healthy, broad, and reverent education that focuses on the head, heart, and hands of each student. With a curriculum that is developmentally appropriate and beauty-attuned, the Waldorf School of Santa Barbara aims to cultivate the full potential of each individual student and the community as a whole. The school strives to not only reflect society but also guide and shape it. As a non-profit institution, the Waldorf School of Santa Barbara does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or any other protected category. The school features photos on their website taken by parents in the community, including Monica Montigny of Santa Barbara Photo Style, Michaela Gardner of Sol Focus Studios, Erin Feinblatt, and Nico Constantinides.

Oak Grove School, located at 220 West Lomita Avenue in Ojai, California, is a unique educational institution founded in 1975 by philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti. Our school offers lodging and education for primary and secondary students, with a focus on self-understanding and deep inquiry. The 150-acre wooded campus provides a safe space for students to ask meaningful questions and engage in affectionate communication. Our approach to education, known as The Art of Living and Learning, emphasizes excellence, care, and responsibility in the modern world. At Oak Grove School, we believe in fostering a community where students can explore the perennial questions of humankind and develop a whole, mindful, and intelligent approach to life. We do not discriminate based on individual or group identity characteristics, and strive to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all. Join us at Oak Grove School to experience a joyful and enriching educational journey.

Alpha Shen Preschool, located at 618 North Moore Avenue in Monterey Park, California, is dedicated to unlocking the wonder and joy of early childhood learning. Our immersive and nurturing preschool experience motivates and inspires students through daily academic and social learning. Our caring and nurturing environment, staffed with experienced teachers, provides a warm and loving atmosphere where students look forward to school every day. Our preschool program focuses on the child as a whole, addressing individual needs and fostering independence, social cooperation, and intellectual growth. With the support of parents, we offer a positive learning experience where each child can develop their unique potential and early school readiness skills. We emphasize respect, dignity, and moral principles to instill sound ethical values in our students.

St. Mark Preschool, located at 2200 San Joaquin Hills Road in Newport Beach, California, is a highly acclaimed institution offering a half day program for potty trained children ages 2 ½ to 5 years old. With optional extended day schedules, the preschool provides a loving and enriching environment that focuses on the holistic development of each child. Parents rave about the safe and comfortable atmosphere, describing it as a second family for their little ones. The balance between academic and social development is praised, with many noting the positive impact the school has had on their children. Teachers are described as warm, caring, and dedicated to fostering both academic and creative growth. Many families feel fortunate to have found such a wonderful school in their neighborhood, with children thriving and blossoming at St. Mark Preschool.

Located in Huntington Beach, California, Huntington Christian School (HCS) is a primary school dedicated to providing a nurturing and loving environment for students from Preschool through 8th grade. Our whole-child approach to education focuses on ensuring that each student thrives in every aspect of their lives, not just academically. At HCS, we believe that education is more than just learning facts and figures—it is about empowering students to lead lives of joy and impact. Our comprehensive curriculum and enrichment programs provide the necessary tools for students to succeed at the highest level.

Heir Force Academy Preschool is a leading educational institution located at 4755 Gosford Road in Bakersfield, California, United States. As a reputable preschool, we provide a nurturing and stimulating environment for young children to learn and grow. Our dedicated team of educators are committed to providing a quality early childhood education that focuses on developing the whole child. With a focus on social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development, Heir Force Academy Preschool prepares children for future academic success. Join us in shaping the minds of tomorrow's leaders at Heir Force Academy Preschool.

Westside Waldorf School is a unique educational institution located in Santa Monica, California. As a Waldorf school, our curriculum is designed to nurture the whole child - academically, artistically, and socially. Our campus is located at 1439 15th Street and offers a peaceful and inspiring environment for students to learn and grow. At Westside Waldorf School, we prioritize hands-on learning, creativity, and a strong sense of community. Join us in providing a holistic and enriching education for your child.

ABC Little School is a primary school located at 927 North Fairfax Avenue in West Hollywood, California. We understand that choosing the right preschool for your child is crucial, which is why we encourage parents to visit our facility and others in the area to ensure the best fit. Our "Whole Child" approach ensures that each child thrives in a comfortable, family-like environment. Our academic-based curriculum prepares students for future success in magnet and honors programs. At ABC Little School, we adhere to all regulations set forth by the California State Licensing Division to ensure the safety and well-being of all children. Our experienced and caring staff create a nurturing environment where children can learn and grow. We offer full-time and part-time programs with meals included in tuition.

PS1 Pluralistic School One is a dynamic and innovative primary school located in the vibrant city of Santa Monica, California. Our school is dedicated to providing a diverse and inclusive learning environment where students of all backgrounds can thrive. With a focus on pluralism and embracing differences, PS1 fosters a sense of community and respect among its students and staff. At PS1, we believe in a holistic approach to education that nurtures the whole child – academically, socially, and emotionally. Our experienced teachers are committed to helping students reach their full potential through personalized instruction and hands-on learning experiences. From our rigorous academic curriculum to our enriching extracurricular activities, PS1 offers a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in the 21st century.

Tustin Preschool, located at 14211 Newport Avenue in Tustin, California, is a school that has been providing full and part-time childcare to children aged two to five since 1981. Our goal is to create a positive environment that fosters the social, physical, emotional, and intellectual growth of young children. Our daily learning experiences are tailored to the developmental age of each group, incorporating both large and small group interactions to help children learn to cooperate, listen, and share. We offer self-selected activities to stimulate cognitive growth and creativity, as well as outdoor activities to develop motor skills. Children are provided with morning snacks, lunch, and afternoon snacks. We are excited to welcome you and your child to our school! Contact us at (714) 838-3480 or tustinpreschool14211@gmail.com.

United Faith Community School is a primary school located at 6934 Long Beach Boulevard in Long Beach, California. Our institution is dedicated to providing a nurturing and inclusive educational environment where students can grow academically, socially, and spiritually. With a focus on faith-based values and a strong sense of community, we strive to empower our students to reach their full potential. Our experienced teachers and staff are committed to helping each child develop a love for learning and a strong foundation for future success. Join us at United Faith Community School and become part of our close-knit educational family.

The Willows Community School is a progressive and innovative educational institution located in Culver City, California. Our school is dedicated to providing a nurturing and inclusive learning environment for students from preschool through eighth grade. With a focus on creativity, critical thinking, and social-emotional development, we strive to empower our students to become confident, compassionate, and engaged members of society. Our campus, located at 8509 Higuera Street, offers state-of-the-art facilities and a beautiful natural setting that enhances the learning experience. Join us at The Willows Community School and discover a place where education is truly a journey of growth and discovery.

South Hills Academy, located at 2585 South Main Street in Corona, California, is a school that believes in providing a strong foundation for lifelong learning for every child. Their inclusive environment is Christ-centered, where children and their families feel safe, loved, and have fun while receiving high-quality early childhood education. The curriculum at South Hills Academy focuses on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) to develop the whole child and prepare them for success in school and in life.

Crenshaw Montessori Academy is a reputable school located at 4914 Crenshaw Boulevard in Los Angeles, California. Established in 1977, our institution caters to children ages 2 through First Grade, focusing on the education of the whole child. Our experienced staff is dedicated to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment where each child can learn at their own pace. The Montessori technique is at the core of our curriculum, allowing children to excel in academics beyond their age level. Join us at Crenshaw Montessori Academy for a unique and enriching educational experience.

New Covenant Academy is a prestigious primary and secondary school located at 3119 West 6th Street in Los Angeles, California. Our institution is committed to providing a high-quality education that nurtures the whole child - academically, socially, and spiritually. With a dedicated team of experienced educators and a comprehensive curriculum, we strive to empower our students to reach their full potential and become responsible, compassionate leaders in our community. At New Covenant Academy, we believe in fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive and succeed. Join us on our mission to inspire excellence and make a difference in the world.

The Gratitude Garden Preschool, located in San Clemente, California, is a nature-based STEM focused school that emphasizes positive social and emotional development, artistic expression, and creativity. Our program is designed to nurture children's curiosity, imagination, and critical thinking skills, fostering a love for learning and exploring the world around them. We instill values of gratitude, compassion, creativity, and resiliency in our students, aiming to develop future leaders who value global well-being and approach challenges with integrity and compassion. Our school offers a fun, nurturing, and curiosity-driven environment where children can thrive and develop a grateful perspective on life. Through a blend of science, technology, engineering, math, and artistic expression, we aim to cultivate appreciation for the world around us and strengthen resiliency in young minds. Our goal is to inspire a future generation of leaders who approach life with integrity, compassion, and a love for learning.

KIE International Montessori is a prestigious school located at 31171 Niguel Road in Laguna Niguel, California, United States. Our institution offers a unique and innovative educational approach based on the Montessori philosophy, focusing on individualized learning and holistic development of students. With a dedicated team of experienced educators and state-of-the-art facilities, KIE International Montessori provides a nurturing and stimulating environment for children to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Join us and experience the difference in education at KIE International Montessori.

Sonrise Christian Preschool is a warm and nurturing educational institution located in Covina, California. Our school, situated at 1220 East Ruddock Street, provides a safe and loving environment where young children can learn and grow. At Sonrise Christian Preschool, we aim to instill Christian values and principles in our students while also focusing on their academic development. Our dedicated teachers and staff are committed to providing a well-rounded education that prepares children for future success. Join us at Sonrise Christian Preschool for a rewarding and enriching early childhood education experience.