Central Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten

Business Details

23 Years

experience

Central Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten in Encinitas, CA

Since 2003, Central Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten has provided a child-centered educational experience for children aged 18 months to 6 years. Our dedicated team of qualified professionals employs innovative Montessori methods to cultivate focused, independent learners prepared for academic and personal success. Through self-directed activities and hands-on learning, we emphasize concrete educational experiences that align with Dr. Maria Montessori's philosophy of engaging children's imaginations to foster deep understanding. Our programs integrate Spanish immersion, music, science, and arts to develop language skills, cultural awareness, and creative expression.

With class sizes ranging from 10 to 24 students, we maintain a structured yet nurturing environment that values each child's unique potential. Our facilities feature specialized spaces for physical development through sports, dance, and gymnastics, complemented by extended care options from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We prioritize parental engagement through school tours and individual interviews, maintaining transparent communication channels via email and phone. Our academic approach balances Montessori principles with modern educational needs, preparing students for future learning while preserving childhood's natural curiosity.

Services

Montessori Toddler Education Spanish Immersion Program Music Classes Science Education Physical Development Art & Craft Activities Extended Care Services Parent Engagement Programs Language Acquisition Cultural Awareness

Details

Year established: 2003

Highlights and features

We implement authentic Montessori methods developed through 20+ years of specialized early childhood education
Our Spanish immersion program develops bilingual proficiency through culturally rich activities
Self-directed learning environment fosters natural curiosity and independent problem-solving skills
Experienced educators maintain child-to-teacher ratios of 10-24 students per class
Specialized facilities support physical development through sports, dance, and gymnastics programs

What people say

Best school in the world Happiest child Strict covid precautions Creative learning Language proficiency

Website

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Services

Montessori Toddler Education

Our Montessori toddler program cultivates foundational skills through self-directed activities and hands-on learning materials. Certified educators guide children aged 18 months to 3 years in developing focus, independence, and social responsibility. The curriculum emphasizes practical life skills, sensory development, and early language acquisition within a structured yet nurturing environment.

Spanish Immersion Program

This immersive language program introduces preschoolers to Spanish through interactive songs, stories, and conversational practice. Aligned with Montessori principles, the curriculum builds bilingual proficiency while fostering cultural awareness. Students develop verbal communication skills and comprehension through daily language exposure in classroom activities and play-based learning contexts.

Physical Development

Our physical education program includes sports, dance, and gymnastics instruction designed to enhance motor skills and coordination. Specialized classes follow USA Gymnastics guidelines, using age-appropriate equipment to develop balance and physical confidence. Activities promote social skills, discipline, and healthy lifestyle habits through structured play and guided movement experiences.

Music Education

Music instruction supports cognitive development through rhythmic patterns, melodic recognition, and sound association activities. Children explore musical concepts through singing, instrument play, and movement exercises that enhance memory skills and auditory processing. The program integrates with language development and cultural studies to create multidisciplinary learning experiences.

Science Exploration

Our science curriculum introduces basic scientific concepts through hands-on experiments and nature-based learning. Children engage in sensory exploration of physical properties, biological systems, and environmental science through age-appropriate activities. The program emphasizes observation skills, hypothesis testing, and discovery-based learning that prepares students for future STEM education.

Questions

What age groups do you serve?

We accept children aged 18 months to 6 years for our Montessori toddler through kindergarten programs.

What are your class sizes?

Our classes maintain student-teacher ratios between 10-24 children with dedicated staff support.

Do you offer extended care?

Morning care starts at 7:00 a.m. and afternoon extended hours continue until 5:00 p.m.

What special programs are available?

We provide Spanish immersion, music education, science exploration, and physical development programs.

How can parents schedule visits?

What are tuition rates?

Full day programs range from $1,040–$1,530 monthly depending on attendance days and age group.

Reviews (7)

Write a Review

Brittany F.

Oct 04, 2021 Report

I would absolutely recommend Central Montessori to friends and family in the area. My kids spent the last 1.5 years there and they had fun, learned so much (and their approach made them also love learning), made great friends, and I felt like the staff and owners truly cared about the happiness and well being of the children.

Considering it's location (in a mall next to homegoods), I probably wouldn't have given it a second thought except that another mom highly recommended it. Don't let the location deter you, behind the small entrance is a large facility with many well put together

Lauren K.

Sep 23, 2020 Report

I can't say enough good things about CMS! My 2.5 year old daughter has attended two other preschools in the past, neither of which compared to the experience we've had here! The staff has gone above and beyond to keep the kids healthy during these strange COVID times, all while being there to support us parents who need childcare and don't have the option of keeping them home full time.

I was very nervous to put her back in school, but she is truly thriving and I feel confident that the teachers and staff at CMS are doing everything in their power to do what's best for the children

Beatriz J.

Jul 02, 2020 Report

This is the absolute best school you could EVER send your kids to, no matter where you are in San Diego. The individual attention and love they demonstrate to every kid and family is incomparable to any school in San Diego. Also, during these tough times of Covid-19, they are taking the strictest of measures to insure safety to all children and families. They are going above and beyond with strict hand washing, temperature checks, and teacher face masks. Not only is it the safest place for my child, it is the best place for my daughter to emotionally, socially, and educationally develop. I would

Kirsten P.

Jun 02, 2020 Report

My family has had a very positive experience at CMS. Five years ago, when my son was ready for preschool I toured around a variety of preschools. I was immediately impressed with Ms. Ban, the head of the school. She provides excellent leadership and is always available. She has been an amazing support for my family throughout the years. My children had the opportunity to be in class with Ms. Grace and Ms. Belen. They complement each other well and provide a loving, supportive, calm and fun learning environment. The teacher's aides have been so wonderful to my kids giving them assistance

K. T.

May 26, 2020 Report

This has been a great preschool for our family. We have 2 kids currently enrolled and it's our second year here with plans to attend again next year. The teachers work with each child to meet their individual needs. The school also works to present interesting activities throughout the year that keep all the kids excited and engaged. We will miss this environment when we move on from CMS.

Jerry Teel

Nov 16, 2019 Report

Our grandson attended CMS for preschool. His experience there was great and ours was as well. Ms. Ban and Mr. Jay have provided a well organized, clean and safe space for the children. His teachers were also excellent educators with caring hearts. This is clearly the best preschool in our area.

Baxter C.

Jan 10, 2017 Report

So going on here for about 5 years and with my second child! this school is really great! I owe alot to the teacher Ms. Yolanda, she saved my child's life when she was choking on a grape i packed her.She hid her face, and if not properly trained, a teacher wouldn't have noticed her face was purple! Ms. Yolanda noticed her odd behavior, saw she was choking and did the Heimlich maneuver to save her life. We are forever thankful! Also, my child has a problem with separation anxiety which they totally helped with. She will wear her pajamas to school but the caring teachers help her adjust