Palo Alto, CA

Bing Nursery School is Stanford University's laboratory school and one of the most prestigious early childhood education programs in the country. Founded in 1931, it serves as a research and teacher training facility while providing exceptional play-based education. The school emphasizes child-directed learning in beautifully designed indoor and outdoor environments. Teachers hold advanced degrees in early childhood education and work closely with Stanford researchers. The program focuses on social-emotional development, creativity, and problem-solving skills through hands-on exploration. With extensive outdoor play spaces, art studios, and carefully designed learning environments, Bing offers a research-backed approach that has influenced early childhood education nationwide.

This Bright Horizons center located in Stanford Research Park provides comprehensive early education with a research-based curriculum. The center offers age-appropriate programs from infants through pre-kindergarten, focusing on whole-child development. Their World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills through hands-on learning. The facility features secure access, dedicated outdoor play areas for each age group, and nutritious meal programs. Teachers typically hold bachelor's degrees in early childhood education or related fields, with ongoing professional development. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and emphasizes parent partnership through regular communication and family events.

Located in nearby Burlingame and serving families throughout the Peninsula, this Jewish-inspired early childhood center offers an exceptional Reggio Emilia-inspired program. The center focuses on project-based learning where children's interests drive the curriculum. Features include beautiful classroom environments, extensive art studios, natural outdoor play spaces, and a strong emphasis on social justice and community values. The highly qualified teaching staff includes many with master's degrees in education, and the program emphasizes developing critical thinking, creativity, and empathy. While rooted in Jewish values, the program welcomes families of all backgrounds and focuses on universal values of kindness, respect, and community responsibility.