Choosing childcare can be a daunting task. This guide provides many of the childcare and preschool programs avaiable in santa Cruz County as well as support services for the younger population.

Preschool & Childcare Guide

Aptos

The Aptos Academy
Lic #444406729
1940 Bonita Dr.
Aptos
831.688.1080
www.aptosacademy.org
Our program for ages 3 to 5 is fully accredited by WASC. We provide for physical, social, and intellectual growth in a bright, cheerful and nurturing environment geared towards the development of the whole child. Good communication, flexibility, creativity and imagination are key parts of our program. Hours: 9am - 3:45pm. Please call for more information or personal tour of Pre-K through 8th grade.


Rose Blossom Nursery School
Lic #444403616
6401 Freedom Blvd.
Aptos
831.662.8458
www.roseblossomschool.org
Advanced Preschool & Kindergarten. Registration open for summer and fall 2008. Ages 2 1/2 thru entry to 1st grade. Mixed aged group, with attention to emotional and social development. Strong academic curriculum: reading, writing, math, science, social studies, and creative drama, integrated with music and art daily, organized into monthly themes and performances. Circle time, group meetings, individualized instruction, and free play. Tumbling Tutor optional. Beautiful, country setting. Call for tour and registration info.


Santa Cruz Montessori
6230 Soquel Drive
Aptos
831.476.1646
www.scms.org
Santa Cruz Montessori is s non-profit, independent school founded in 1964 serving children ages 18 months to 15 years. Our programs include the arts, sciences, mathematics, literature, language, social studies and music. Our beautiful Montessori classrooms are designed to engage all of the child's senses and create a life-long love of learning. Our mission is to guide and nurture the natural development of the whole person, where students develop a respect for nature and the global family. Our students grow with a healthy spirit, a clear intellect, and a strong character so they may realize their unique contributions as they work for a noble and peaceful world.


Simcha Preschool
Lic #440710119
3055 Porter Gulch Road
Aptos
831.479.3449
www.simchakids.org
Simcha Preschool is one of only several early childhood programs in Santa Cruz County currently accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. We currently have several openings for the 2009–2010 school year! We offer high quality early learning experiences, small classes, excellent staff to student rations and flexible schedules for children ages 2 – 5 years.

Capitola / Soquel

Capitola Sonshine Preschool
Lic #444404397
4575 Capitola Rd.
Capitola
831.475.7150
capitolasonshinepreschool.org
Developing the Spiritual, Physical, Social, Emotional and intellectual development of preschool age children with hands-on art, math, science, reading, music and the Bible, Capitola Sonshine Preschool offers full and part time openings from 7:30am to 5:45pm.


Soquel Cooperative Nursery School
397 Old San Jose Rd.
Soquel
831.429.3464
www.soquelpens.org
Cooperative preschools offer an opportunity for parents to develop their parenting skills and meet other families in a supportive environment. Preschoolers and their parents participate in a developmental preschool program emphasizing children's expression, ideas and creativity. The instructors will provide training in effective parenting techniques via seminars, observation and discussion. Positive guidance and problem-solving strategies will be emphasized. These affordable, high quality programs serve ages 2 to 5 years. Eastside location also includes toddler age program. Summer sessions are also offered.


Tara Redwood School
5810 Prescott Road
Soquel
831.462.9632
www.tararedwoodschool.org
Tara Redwood School offers an innovative educational preschool experience for young children. Our program integrates Montessori academics with other experiential, emergent and child-centered methodologies. We emphasize the development of social emotional awareness through play, art, science, natural discovery, and much more. Our beautiful campus is located in the redwoods just 5 minutes from Soquel Village.

Davenport

Pacific Elementary School
P.O. Box H
Davenport
831.425.7002
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Pacific Preschool in Davenport is a 5-day a week program from 9 a.m. to noon for 3 to 5 year olds. Pacific Preschool offers a Montessori-style approach to teaching -- learning by doing, nutritious snacks, and an after school care program until 2:30. Monthly tuition is $450, $350 or Free.

Mountain Communities

Bonny Doon Community Preschool
Lic #444400468
1492-1 Pine Flat Rd. Bonny Doon
831.459.7795
Director: Jennifer Koski
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We offer a play based, child centered, developmentally age appropriate preschool program located in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Our enriched curriculum includes daily arts and music, cooking, life science, Life Lab, vermiculture, dramatic play, Reading buddies, problem solving and conflict resolution skills, kindergarten readiness/PreK program.  We offer flexible schedules and drop in. We offer both school year and summer programs. NAEYC Accredited.
 

The Children's Center of San Lorenzo Valley
Lic #440710514 & #440710515
8500 Hwy. 9
Ben Lomond
831.336.2857
www.ccslv.org
High quality childcare for ages 3mos to 6 years old. CCSLV focuses on helping children become competent engaged learners in our stimulating preschool environment. Hot vegetarian meals,          NAEYC accredited and the lowest ratios; 2:1 for ages 3mos-1 yr, 4:1 for ages 1-2, and 6:1 for ages 2-6.


Quail Hollow Montessori
Lic #444408893
831.335.4710
Quail Hollow Montessori offers a highly individualized learning experience for your child with a solid foundation in both academic and social skills. QHM is located in Felton and offers programs for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and kindergartners. Our goal is to help children blossom into self-confident, compassionate, inquisitive, and respectful individuals with a life-long love of learning. QHM is under the same ownership as Scotts Valley Children’s Center.

Santa Cruz

Children’s Preschool
Lic #444411592
420 Melrose Ave
Santa Cruz
831.425.7580
We offer a high quality early learning experience with flexible schedules for children 2-5 years of age. We are committed to providing a loving, nurturing and respectful experience for our children. Please call to schedule a visit!


CKC Children’s Center
Lic #444408785
8005 Winkle Ave., Room #4
Santa Cruz
831.475.6587
We offer full-time and part-time care to children ages 24 months (must be potty-trained) to entering kindergarten. We are open from 7:00am to 6:00pm M-F. We provide a learning environment that fosters early literacy, a sense of community, and diversity through a variety of activities offered on a daily basis.


Emeline Preschool Center
Lic #440710424
1030 Emeline Ave, Bldg. O
Santa Cruz
831.459.8866
Emeline Preschool Center has been providing quality early childhood education with great teacher/child ratios, for over 18 years. We offer a sliding fee schedule, so that excellent care can be offered to all, and children can find animals in every classroom. Through play and planned activities, our program strives to teach children, social, cognitive, and problem-solving skills, all which have proven to be an important foundation for future development and life learning.


Living Earth Play School Inc.
Lic #444408109
Santa Cruz
831.331.6594
www.livingearth-playschool.com
Living Earth is a place where children can relax and learn through nature. Featuring dirt and bugs, goats and chickens, gardens and water fountains with lots of space to play, create, and explore. Offering flexible schedules, 4 -1 ratio, organic snack and lunches, for 2.5-Pre-K. Call today


Midtown Montessori
Lic #444408886
818 North Branciforte Avenue
Santa Cruz
831.423.2273
www.midtownmontessori.com
Midtown Montessori is a certified green preschool/child care center located on Branciforte Avenue, between Water Street and Soquel Avenue. We provide Montessori based educational child care for families with children ages 3 to 6 years old. Our center is open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. Tuition includes nearly all ORGANIC snacks and a cooked lunch. Montessori curriculum includes lessons in communal social graces and courtesies, practical life and all academic areas.


Santa Cruz Parent Education Nursery School
411 Roxas St.
Santa Cruz
831.425.4495
www.scpens.org
waitlist info: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Cooperative preschools offer an opportunity for parents to develop their parenting skills and meet other families in a supportive environment. Preschoolers and their parents participate in a developmental preschool program emphasizing children's expression, ideas and creativity. The instructors will provide training in effective parenting techniques via seminars, observation and discussion. Positive guidance and problem-solving strategies will be emphasized. These affordable, high quality programs serve ages 2 to 5 years. Eastside location also includes toddler age program. Summer sessions are also offered.

West Santa Cruz

Bethany Kientzel's Toddler Enrichment Playgroup
Lic #444411256
West Side Santa Cruz
831.429.6399
Part-time mornings. Small toddler enrichment play-group. 2-3 day per week schedules offered. A.S., B.A., M.A. degrees; Child Dev. Human Dev. Psychology. Quality care since 1988.

Coastal Community Preschool
Lic #444408854
900 High Street
Santa Cruz
831.462.KIDS (5437)
coastalcommunitypreschool.org
CCP serves children ages 2 1⁄2 through 5 years with a safe, stimulating, and caring learning atmosphere. We have a curriculum that encourages development at each child’s own pace. Among our program highlights, we offer flexible year-round schedules, a highly experienced teaching staff, and a bright, secure West side location overlooking the Monterey Bay. Join us as we continue working with parents and caregivers to raise a community of strong, confident and happy children.


The Village School
Lic #444407884
Westside Santa Cruz
831.423.3588
www.villagepreschoolsc.com
Come play with us in a magical environment! A new classroom, set in a wonderful outdoor play area, awaits children at The Village School. The Waldorf-inspired preschool and kindergarten program supports children learning through their play with baking, art, woodworking, puppet stories, seasonal ring time, within a Spanish-English bilingual curriculum. Ages are infant to 3 year old for parent/child class and 2 to 5 years old for preschool. Call to schedule a visit.


Westside Parent Education Nursery School
1231 Bay St.
Santa Cruz
831.429.3995
www.wpens.org
waitlist & info: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Cooperative preschools offer an opportunity for parents to develop their parenting skills and meet other families in a supportive environment. Preschoolers and their parents participate in a developmental preschool program emphasizing children's expression, ideas and creativity. The instructors will provide training in effective parenting techniques via seminars, observation and discussion. Positive guidance and problem-solving strategies will be emphasized. These affordable, high quality programs serve ages 2 to 5 years. Eastside location also includes toddler age program. Summer sessions are also offered.

Scotts Valley

A Child's Connections Preschool
Lic #444408848
106 Vine Hill School Rd.
Scotts Valley
831.438.4813
www.achildsconnections.com
Accepting children 18 months to Kindergarten. Experienced, loving staff. Low child to teacher ratios. Play and academics are utilized together to enhance learning. No diapering fees, potty training included. Kindergarten readiness program and assessments. Kindergarten transportation for Vine Hill. Sibling discounts offered. Full or half day rates, varied schedules offered.


Montessori Scotts Valley
123 S. Navara Dr.
Scotts Valley
831.439.9313
www.montessorisv.com
Montessori Scotts Valley offers an individualized education that follows children's natural development to maximize abilities and interests, applying the philosophy developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. MSV offers programs from infancy (6 weeks) through Kindergarten (6 years). Our programs cultivate a holistic education, building focus and independence, providing strong social and academic foundations, and educating children for life. Maria Montessori understood that education must begin at birth, and be comprehensive to meet children's complex needs, and to prepare children for life. Recent scientific studies reveal that Montessori-educated children outperform their traditionally educated peers in academics, creativity, problem solving, and social skills.


Scotts Valley Children’s Center
Lic #444403546
Scotts Valley
831.461.9330
Scotts Valley Children's Center provides infant, toddler and preschool/kindergarten learning environments utilizing Montessori principles of education. Our goal is to help children blossom into self-confident, compassionate, inquisitive, and respectful individuals with a life-long love of learning. Our curriculum includes language, math, science, culture, art and music. We offer a highly individualized and peaceful learning experience for your child. Our convenient location includes a 7000 square foot yard with a park quality climbing structure and garden.

Watsonville

Mount Madonna School
Lic #440709549
491 Summit Rd.
Watsonville
408.847.2717
www.MountMadonnaSchool.org
Our Montessori-based program provides a loving, safe and stimulating learning environment where children, three to six years old, are encouraged to develop at their own pace. We strive to nurture a child's innate sense of trust, goodness and wonder. At Mount Madonna School, we focus on developing kindness and respect towards ourselves and others. We offer a developmentally appropriate indoor environment fostering curiosity, confidence and creativity in all aspects of the learning process. This, combined with our 355-acre outdoor classroom, invites and empowers children to fully engage in their education. By including abundant time for imaginative free play, children are inspired in all areas of their development.

Enrichment and Support Programs

All About Theatre
325 Washington Street
Santa Cruz
831.345.6340
www.allabouttheatre.org
All About Theatre offers classes for the young budding performer! Our age appropriate movement classes are a joyful, kinetic experience that encourage skill building, focus, creative thought and an appreciation for one`s self and the arts. The classes are designed to provide an enriched dance experience in a supportive and safe environment, and to ensure each young dancer is developing a love and appreciation for dance that lasts a lifetime. Classes include Creative Movement, Dance Basics, Kid Rhythms, and the foundation of Jazz, Ballet and Tap. Along with dance, we also educate in the area of voice and music. Our small classes train the ear, encourage correct vocal techniques and use of the voice box. It is important to learn how to sing correctly at an early age. Using Broadway show tunes as the medium. Look us up online at for our year-round classes and workshops.


Baby Bloomers
423-BABY (2229)
923 Water Street
Santa Cruz
Daycare/Preschool Discount Program! Daycares and Preschools receive a 10% discount on all purchases for their school. When parents shop, 5% of what they spend goes on a card for whatever school they want, which the schools can then spend in the store as FREE CREDIT! Any Daycare or Preschool may join. We carry many educational games, toys, puzzles, and puppets, both new and used. We have Swim diapers, hats, swimsuits, and swim booties. New this Spring are Sand toys, and gardening tools! Baby Bloomers is a one-stop-shop for all of your Preschoolers needs! Stop in and see for yourself!


Educational Resource Center of Santa Cruz
224 Walnut Ave., Suite C
Santa Cruz
831.818.8178
www.edcentersantacruz.com


Jim Booth Swim School
Harvey West Park
Spa Fitness
Ducan Holbert, indoor pool
831.722.3500
jimboothswimschool.com
"The Best in Baby and Children's swimming". Jim Booth Swim School has offered the most successful and fun swim class for 35 years to kids of all ages and abilities. Our 94-degree pools make classes comfortable and exciting for babies from 4 months to adult beginners in "aquaphobics" class. Classes are conveniently offered year around 8:00 am to 8:00 pm in both indoor and outdoor pools. Call now to enroll.


JuneBugs Gym
3910 Portola Drive Ste 2 & 3
Santa Cruz
831.423.7406
www.junebugsgym.com
JuneBugs Gym is a new Preschool Motor Development gymnastics program in the Pleasure Point area of Santa Cruz. In November of 2009 the gym took over the space next door and is now more than twice as big! June Ralston has teamed up with Barry Brooks of Tumbling Tutor to create a truly fun and unique program. They work with children ages walking to 7 yrs. to help establish a solid foundation in motor development and lifelong habits of staying fit. June and Barry believe that children that have confidence and self esteem in their ability to move competently in their early years, will influence their future to stay active. JuneBugs Gym also offers Winter, Spring and Summer Camps called Fitness, Food and Fun. These camps focus on teaching children about healthy food choices, making healthy snacks and the benefits of being active and fit. The Tumbling Tutor offers fun-filled birthday parties every Saturday and Sunday.


Lolly Tree Toys
240 Cathcart St
Downtown Santa Cruz
831.713.5136
www.lollytreetoys.com
Lolly Tree Toys specializes in providing high quality, engaging toys for children under 10. Our free weekly activities are designed with the inquisitive pre-schooler in mind. Join us for story hour on Thursdays at 11 am when we read some of our favorite books and encourage the involvement of the listeners. If creating is your style, join us anytime on Sundays to make a one-of-a-kind craft project to bring home. For more details on our activities be sure to visit www.lollytreetoys.com.


Music Together/MusicalMe, Inc.
Locations throughout Santa Cruz and Santa Clara County
831.438-3514
www.MusicalMe.com
Music Together® is a music and movement program for newborns to five year olds, and the adults who love them. It introduces children to the pleasures of making music instead of passively receiving it from CDs or TV and is committed to helping families, caregivers, and early childhood professionals rediscover the joy and educational value of informal music experiences. Call to attend one class for free and discover how your family can play together with music!


No Limits Dance & Performing Arts
2800 S. Rodeo Gulch Rd. Ste-C
Soquel
831.476.0390 / 831.239.5726
www.nolimitssoquel.com
No Limits offers dance combo classes for ages 3-6. Kids will be introduced to various dance styles in a fun fast paced class. Tap, jazz, and tumbling will be taught in a safe and positive learning environment. Take advantage of our special offer and receive 1⁄2 off first month's tuition and registration! Please contact Athena at 239-5726 for more information. Classes run Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturdays!


O'Neill Surf Shops
1115 41st Avenue
Capitola
831.475.4151

Downtown
110 Cooper Street
831.469.4377

Beach Boardwalk
400 Beach Street
831.459.9230
O'Neill Surf Shop has all your toddler and up surf products for fun in the surf and on the sand. 50+ UV protective Rash Guards in long and short sleeve. Wet Suits, little kids Booties, Skim Boards and Body Boards. Best selection of O'Neill kids wetsuits and accessories in town, and ask about are Junior Trade in program. It's always summer on the inside.


Pediatric Therapy Center
8050 Soquel Drive, Suite A
Aptos
831.684.1804
www.ptc-sc.com


Pump’d – Inflatable Fun Center
555 Main St.
Watsonville
831.761.5321
www.PumpdFunCenter.com
PUMP'd is the first and only indoor inflatable fun center in Santa Cruz County. With fun activities for all ages, it's an ideal place to visit with your family. $7.00 per child admission for Open Jump fun. Younger children will have fun playing in our Toddler Room with the soft play toys and age appropriate climbing structure. Great for children 0-6 years. The inflatables are great for all ages and ability levels. Come visit-- Open Jump hours are offered daily. Call 831-761-5321 or visit www.pumpdfuncenter.com for hours and directions. Remember everyone is required to wear socks!


Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center
275- B Soquel Ave.
Santa Cruz
831.462.0655
www.scgym.com
Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center proudly presents a comprehensive movement education program for children. Our preschool gymnastics program offers classes especially designed for young children ranging from newly walking toddlers to kindergarten aged tumblers. Our experienced, fun loving and kid friendly teachers will guide your children through weekly classes building their confidence through meaningful movement experiences such as crawling through tunnels and jumping on trampolines. Weekly lesson plans include a wide variety of themes which are designed to develop vocabulary, cognitive and social skills along with physical wellness. SCGC offers a full schedule of classes throughout the week including Saturdays. Please call for your complimentary trial class today!


Santa Cruz Roller Palladium
1606 Seabright Ave
Santa Cruz
831.423.0844
Celebrate 60 years of roller skating fun with us! "Tiny Tots" meets Wednesday mornings for kids eight and younger who want to learn to skate and have fun. Roller skating offers healthy activity, develops coordination and balance, and teaches respect for neighboring skaters! All ages, join us for public sessions in the afternoons or evenings. Skate in circles, twirl, and do the Hokey-Pokey and the Limbo! Please call for hours and party reservations.


Santa Cruz Spanish
Santa Cruz
831.345.1961
www.SCSpanish.com


Teach By-The-Beach
8037 Soquel Drive
Aptos
831.454.9696
www.teachbythebeach.com
We offer a rare combination of teaching and therapeutic approaches to individuals with educational or communicative needs. We provide a full spectrum of services ranging from early childhood subjects to highest-end secondary math and science curricula. We are energetic, compassionate, and eager to meet the individual needs of our students.


This is by no means a complete list of all the Child Care and Preschool Programs in Santa Cruz County. GUiSC is not responsible for any errors or omissions, nor does inclusion in this listing constitute our endorsement of a program. Listings were written by each organization and GUiSC has not confirmed the accuracy of the information provided.
If you would like your program included in the next listing, please email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at your earliest convenience, but no later than December 30, 2010.