Preschool for 18 month old - El cerrito, Richmond, albany
Hello - I am reaching out to get some recommendations on preschools for my 18 month old son. We are in El Cerrito but looking for schools in el Cerrito, Richmond or Albany. We have been considering Montessori but open to other options as well.
Also any recent experiences from Nomura or Little tree montessori ?
Mar 9, 2025
Parent Replies
I have heard good things from friends about both of those schools. My son is at The Point Playhouse in El Cerrito and we love it. Feel free to DM and I can share more.
Both of my children (6yo & 3yo, latter currently enrolled) have attended The Good Earth School in Kensington and have loved it. Not Montessori specifically, but great, welcoming staff, and excellent community. They focus on outdoor play, in all weather, so my kids have both cultivated a good sense of the outdoors, and love nature walks etc. Highly recommend if a preschool setting is what you're seeking!
Hello, I would describe Nomura as more traditional in its style and approach to learning. When our child moved on to Albany USD, this was confirmed. It is not Montessori.
There are many home based preschools in the area worth investigating. Also, I would suggest matching your child’s personality to the style of teaching.
Nomura is great. it isnt montessori or play based . Definitely preps kids for a school environment eventually .Very warm with the littles and supportive of the kids/families especially around potty . There is structure but also lots of room for self directed play. Turnover of teachers is very low. Hours are great for working parents and xmas, easter breaks but no summer extended weeks closed
I would encourage you to check out Greenhouse, led by André Julien. Our child attended from 18 months to 3yo and the house-run daycare proved to be magical, interesting and always enriching.
http://www.greenhousechildcare.com