Early Preschool Program near San Carlos, CA

A Nurturing Start To School For Your Toddler

Choosing an early preschool program is a big step for your family, especially when your child is only two or three. You may feel excited to see them learn and make friends, and at the same time, nervous about how they will handle time away from you. We understand that mix of emotions, and we are here to make this transition gentler for both of you.

At Safari Kid Redwood City, our early preschool program is designed specifically for this age group. We focus on warm, predictable routines, rich play-based learning, and strong relationships with families. Our curriculum is research-driven and influenced by Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and other respected approaches, and it is tailored to the needs of young toddlers.

Because we are a global leader in early childhood education, we bring a depth of knowledge to every classroom while keeping each location personal and community-focused. Our teachers are highly trained and genuinely enjoy working with this age, and our goal is to build your child’s confidence, curiosity, and sense of security from the very first day.

Is your toddler ready for the next adventure? Connect with us online or call us at (650) 747-6681 to set up a consultation.

What Early Preschool Looks Like Here

Families in and around San Carlos often ask us what a typical day looks like for an early preschooler. We want you to be able to picture your child’s experience from the moment you arrive. Mornings usually begin with a warm greeting from teachers who learn each child’s drop-off routine, whether that means a quick hug or a few extra minutes of quiet reassurance.

Once children settle in, the classroom opens into inviting activity areas. You might see small group time for songs and stories, child-sized tables for simple art and sensory play, and open floor space for building, pretend play, and movement. Materials sit on low shelves so toddlers can see their choices and practice making decisions, with teachers nearby to guide and support.

Our nature-inspired environment uses natural light, calming colors, and a mix of soft and sturdy materials. We also place a strong emphasis on outdoor time. Weather permitting, children spend part of each day in outdoor spaces, where they can run, climb, dig, and observe the world around them. These areas are planned so that early preschoolers can explore safely and freely.

Throughout the day, we follow predictable rhythms that help young children feel secure. There are times for shared snacks and meals, quiet rest, and gentle transitions between activities. Teachers talk children through what is happening now and what comes next, which supports language development and reduces anxiety. Simple self care routines, such as washing hands and learning to help with cleanup, are practiced with patience and encouragement.

Holistic Curriculum For Toddlers

Underneath the calm, playful atmosphere is a structured curriculum created for early preschoolers. Our program focuses on the whole child, including cognitive, social, language and literacy, physical, emotional, and health and care development. We design experiences in each of these areas so that children grow in a balanced way.

In the cognitive domain, toddlers explore early problem-solving and thinking skills through sorting, matching, building, and experimenting with cause and effect. During social learning, children practice sharing, turn-taking, and simple cooperation in small groups, guided by teachers who coach them through early friendships and conflicts.

Language and literacy development are encouraged daily conversations, songs, and read-alouds. Teachers model rich vocabulary, encourage children to express choices, and offer early pre-reading experiences, such as looking at picture books and noticing print. Physical development is supported through large motor play, like climbing and dancing, and fine motor activities, such as grasping crayons or threading large beads.

Emotional growth is just as important. We help children name feelings, recognize them in others, and practice simple calming strategies. Health and care routines are intentionally woven into the day, including handwashing, learning to wipe spills, and taking small steps toward independence in toileting when appropriate. Our curriculum draws on Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and other respected methodologies, and we adapt these ideas into hands-on, age-appropriate experiences.

Teachers observe each child closely and use ongoing assessments to understand where they are developmentally. These observations guide the experiences we offer next, whether that is adding more complex puzzles, new language games, or different sensory materials. Children also enjoy exposure to arts, music, and cultural activities that fit their stage, such as simple instruments, paint, movement games, and celebrations that reflect the diverse backgrounds of our families.

Supporting Your Child’s Transition

Starting early preschool is a major change in your family routine. We plan carefully for this transition so that children and parents feel supported from the first inquiry onward. When you reach out to our campus near San Carlos, we take time to learn about your child’s personality, routines, and any specific comforts that matter to them.

Before the first official day, many families find it helpful to visit the classroom together. During tours, you can see the environment, meet teachers, and ask questions about how the day will feel for your child. This also gives your child a chance to explore the space with you nearby, which often makes the first drop-off easier.

In those first days, our teachers are very intentional about separation. We watch for cues from your child and follow a consistent approach that you and the teacher discuss in advance. For some children, a quick goodbye works well. Others benefit from a short routine that might include settling into a favorite activity before you leave. We stay in contact so that you know how things are going and can adjust together if needed.

Simple ways you can help your toddler get ready for early preschool include:

• Talking about school in positive, simple language
• Practicing short separations with trusted caregivers
• Creating a predictable morning routine before the first day
• Reading books about starting school together

As your child settles in, we maintain open communication. You can ask questions, share updates from home, and receive insight about how your child is engaging in the classroom. Our goal is to partner with you throughout the transition, not just during enrollment.

Call (650) 747-6681 or reach out online to connect with our early preschool team and plan your visit.