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Find trusted drop-in child care near me in Berkeley, CA

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1.The Wellness Daycare

Richmond Annex S 57th st RICHMOND, CA

(3)

4 mi

The Wellness Daycare's photo
Welcome to The Wellness Daycare! We are nestled in a quiet and safe, family-friendly community. For over 15 years, we've been dedicated to respectfully supporting families by nurturing and guiding children to develop a love for others, a deep respect, and a strong sense of empathy, all while encouraging them to self-explore. The Wellness Daycare is a mindful, play-based early learning space where children grow in an environment built on presence, patience, love, community, diversity, and…
CM
Care Member says "My daughter started going to Melissa’s at 6 months old until 2.5 years old. She is a great teacher probably because her parents were also teachers! She’s very knowledgeable, responsive, patient, and genuinely cares about the kids. As a first time mom, I felt grateful for all the helpful advice and encouragement she provided me. She would send cute pictures of our daughter and let us know how each day went. She provides plenty of activities, toys, and books that she would…
In-Home daycare
Developmental (play-based)
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1324 ADELINE ST OAKLAND, CA

(7)

4 mi

Oak Center Little People Academy's photo
Welcome to Oak Center Little People Academy! 🌳 We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit offering nurturing infant care and a play-based preschool program for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in West Oakland. Our curriculum is designed to spark children’s love of learning through hands-on activities that support their social, emotional, physical, and academic development. Every child, teacher, and parent is a treasured part of our community. As part of the Oak Center Cultural Center, families also…
CM
Care Member says "Our son has been at Oak Center since he was 5 months old. He is so happily attached to his teachers especially Miss Yordi and Miss Naomi. He is not the “chillest” kid but they are so patient and loving. He now is in the toddler class and walks in all by himself ready for the day He loves playing in the big yard everyday. The fact that they provide meals is the cherry on top. "
Child care
Day Care
Preschool
Developmental (play-based)
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11156 SAN PABLO AVE. EL CERRITO, CA

(4)

4 mi

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST CATHOLIC PRESCHOOL's photo
At St. John the Baptist Preschool, children thrive in a nurturing, faith-filled environment where learning is both purposeful and fun. Our program blends a developmentally appropriate curriculum with play-based learning to build early literacy, math, social-emotional, and problem-solving skills. Caring teachers encourage curiosity, creativity, independence, and a love of learning through hands-on activities and exploration. As part of our community, students enjoy a smooth transition into…
CM
Care Member says "Writing from the perspective of the parent of an 8th grade preparing to graduate and embrace his journey to high school, our experience at St. John’s has been amazing. Our son started his experience when he was 2.5 + years old at pre-school. We toured several pre-school options, asked many parents for feedback, with same fears that many of you have, will my child be in good hands? From our first interaction, and welcoming environment, at the time Ms Rachel (currently 4th grade…
Preschool
Faith based
Developmental (play-based)
Academic

169 - 14TH STREET OAKLAND, CA

5 mi

LITTLE STARS PRESCHOOL's photo
Welcome to our preschool, where learning begins through play, exploration, and meaningful connections. We provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment that supports each child's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. Our experienced teachers use a child-centered, play-based approach that encourages curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. We offer age-appropriate activities that build early literacy, math, science, art, and social skills while fostering…
Developmental (play-based)
Child care
Academic

1330 LAKESHORE AVE OAKLAND, CA

5 mi

Pride in Learning Montessori Lake Merritt's photo
Pride in Learning Montessori School offers loving and high-quality early childhood education in a beautiful setting close to Oakland's Lake Merritt. We accept children from 5 weeks to 6 years old for our infant, daycare, and preschool programs. Our seasoned staff of committed educators are all Montessori-certified and wholly dedicated to providing your child with loving and consistent care, quality educational opportunities, and a safe environment for exploration. Please contact us to learn…
Child care
Montessori
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2335 TULARE AVE EL CERRITO, CA

(4)

5 mi

Children's Garden Montessori School's photo
Children’s Garden Montessori School is a small home-based Montessori and play-based preschool in El Cerrito for children 17 months – 5 years old. We believe in following the spirit of the child and honoring each child’s independence and unique learning style. Our director, Alaina Benner, has 35 years of experience, and our team of teachers brings a wealth of energy, warmth, caring, and creativity. We have a big, beautiful backyard with three climbing structures and a sandbox. We offer…
CM
Care Member says "Our son is absolutely thriving at the garden school. Alaina & all of her wonderful stuff are so attentive & loving with the children. The classroom & garden play area are always tidy with great toys & activities for the kids. Our son particularly loves gymnastics with Bindi on Thursdays! We can’t recommend Garden Montessori enough for families seeking a warm environment for their children to learn, explore & grow. "
Day Care
Developmental (play-based)
In-Home daycare
Preschool
Child care
Montessori
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2450 Pan Am Way ALAMEDA, CA

(3)

6 mi

Small Size Big Mind- Pan Am 's photo
Small Size Big Mind Preschool (SSBM) is a family-run, licensed preschool proudly serving the Alameda community and the wonderful families who call it home. We welcome children from infancy through age 6, offering a nurturing Infant Care Program for children 0–2 years old and an engaging Preschool Program for children 2 years and up. SSBM was founded by our mother, whose vision and love for children, families, and our community continue to guide everything we do today. We are now a…
CM
Care Member says "Have loved our experience with SSBM - PaNam campus! They are always constantly improving their services and expanding (without sacrificing quality) and we’ve loved every teacher from infant room to toddler so far. We appreciate how structured the campus is, with different activities daily for the toddlers and above. And we really like the live updates we get on the apps (while keeping the classrooms phone-free): everything from diapers, bottles, food, nap times "
Reggio emilia
Academic
International
Outdoor/nature
Child care
Cooperative

200 BROADWAY RICHMOND, CA

6 mi

CURIOUS EXPLORERS ACADEMY 's photo
We proudly offer a positive, child-centered preschool experience that fosters a love of learning in a nurturing community. In each child, we strive to cultivate: autonomy, a sense of belonging, respect for others, and an enthusiasm for exploration and learning.
Academic
Preschool
Day Care
Child care
Developmental (play-based)
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638 Eagle Avenue ALAMEDA, CA

(4)

6 mi

Sonrisas de Alameda's photo
Families choose Sonrisas de Alameda Home Daycare because we offer more than childcare,we provide a loving, safe, and nurturing second home where every child receives personalized attention. Our small-group setting allows us to truly know each child, support their individual needs, and help them feel secure and confident. Through Spanish immersion, age-appropriate learning activities, outdoor play, healthy meals, and lots of love, children learn, grow, and build meaningful relationships every…
CM
Care Member says "Veronica's home daycare has been a blessing to my family for many years. The environment is loving and supportive, and lots of Spanish exposure. The children have plenty of playtime, and space to run, dance, and climb, with home-cooked nutritious meals and snacks, activities and story time. My kids have loved going to “school” and told me (at length, all 3 of them) about how much fun they have."
In-Home daycare
Outdoor/nature

837 LINCOLN AV ALAMEDA, CA

(4)

6 mi

MY ESCUELA's photo
Families choose My Escuela Bilingual Preschool because we offer more than an early education program, we provide a joyful, loving, and truly bilingual community where every child is known, valued, and encouraged to thrive. What makes My Escuela unique is our combination of Spanish immersion, play-based learning, personalized attention, and strong kindergarten preparation. Children learn naturally through art, music, science, movement, and meaningful hands-on experiences that build confidence,…
IS
IVY S. says "The space is constantly being clean and sanitized which is a huge plus. The staff is very attentive and loving. They hold conferences to show you where your child developmentally stands. Having constant reassurance is also very helpful. They have a huge backyard where they get to play. They do all sorts of things with community resources so that the kids can stay engaged."
Academic
Preschool
Day Care
Child care
Outdoor/nature
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2001 Santa Clara Ave. ALAMEDA, CA

(6)

7 mi

Small Size Big Mind- Santa Clara 's photo
Small Size Big Mind Preschool (SSBM) is a family-run, licensed preschool proudly serving the Alameda community and the wonderful families who call it home. We welcome children from infancy through age 6, offering a nurturing Infant Care Program for children 0–2 years old and an engaging Preschool Program for children 2 years and up. SSBM was founded by our mother, whose vision and love for children, families, and our community continue to guide everything we do today. We are now a…
CM
Care Member says "We love SSBM for it's creativity and engagement with our littles. The teachers are all superstars and each class brings an imaginative uniqueness that makes it stand out above other preschool options. We love the admin team and appreciate the relatively few closure days throughout the calendar year. The family engagement piece is always improving and we're excited for more chances to meet other families in the years to come."
Child care
Developmental (play-based)
Academic
Montessori
Reggio emilia
Outdoor/nature
Cooperative
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We are a Reggio inspired preschool and play space in Alameda. Our mission at Whimsy is to nurture the inquisitive learners in us all through the act of invention and play. We are committed to providing learning environments and curriculum that encourage curiosity, creativity and discovery. At Whimsy we embrace the concept of wonder and how that translates to the process of learning. Whimsy seeks to create a community hub where families not only explore, create and play together but…
Child care
Day Care
Preschool
Reggio emilia
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2216 Courtland Ave OAKLAND, CA

(3)

7 mi

IllustrationXXXSmallDayCare image
IllustrationXXSmallDayCare image
CW
Cecilia W. says "They are awesome! I love them! They are so helpful and supportive. So genuine, like family."
In-Home daycare
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4381 Fran Way RICHMOND, CA

(4)

7 mi

Sami's Daycare's photo
Looking for a nurturing environment where your child can thrive? At Sami’s Daycare, we combine years of professional expertise with a heart for childcare. With 6 years of experience working in diverse daycare and preschool settings, Sami provides a curriculum-based approach tailored to every child's needs. Our facility features a spacious outdoor playing area, perfect for active play, exploration, and developing motor skills in a safe, supervised environment. We are dedicated to creating a…
CM
Care Member says "I cannot recommend this daycare enough. My daughter has been so happy here, and as a parent, that means everything. The owner genuinely cares for the children as if they were her own. She goes above and beyond every day. Even when my daughter is sick or absent, she checks in to see how she is doing, which shows how much she truly cares. The food is always fresh and homemade, the environment is warm and welcoming, and the children receive so much love and attention. For any…
Day Care
Academic
International
Developmental (play-based)
Child care
Outdoor/nature
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2929 CASTRO RD SAN PABLO, CA

(4)

8 mi

HAPPY LION DAY CARE CENTER, INC.'s photo
Preschool 2.5 to 5 years old & School Age to 18 years old Happy Lion Day Care Center, Inc. takes pride and honor in providing early intervention programs for preschool and school age children who demonstrate unique learning styles. Our rich classroom environment is tailored-made to facilitate students independence in learning new skills, techniques and methodologies specifically designed for each individual child. Happy Lion Day Care Center, Inc. serves all children (regular education and…
RA
Rolanda A. says "They are very compassionate and they love kids. They are really looking out for the best interest of the children."
Special needs
Preschool
Day Care
Cooperative
Academic
International
Developmental (play-based)
Child care
Outdoor/nature
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716 APPIAN WAY EL SOBRANTE, CA

8 mi

IllustrationXXXSmallDayCare image
IllustrationXXSmallDayCare image
At Kids Corner we plant the seeds for early learning. Our goal is to provide a place where children learn the wonders of the world and teachers prepare the next generation for future success. We focus on the individual child and how s/he lives within a group, and believe in strong connections with each child’s family.
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3300 Bridgeview Isle ALAMEDA, CA

(6)

8 mi

Small Size Big Mind Campus- Bridgeview 's photo
Small Size Big Mind Preschool (SSBM) is a family-run, licensed preschool proudly serving the Alameda community and the wonderful families who call it home. We welcome children from infancy through age 6, offering a nurturing Infant Care Program for children 0–2 years old and an engaging Preschool Program for children 2 years and up. SSBM was founded by our mother, whose vision and love for children, families, and our community continue to guide everything we do today. We are now a…
CM
Care Member says "I’ve had both of my boys at SSMB, and I couldn’t ask for a better environment for them. The teachers are fun and attentive, and the kids get a healthy mix of social-emotional learning and early curriculum. My one year-old is in the infant room and he jumps down out of my arms every morning to go play. It’s such a relief for my day that he is happy there. Beyond the care/classrooms, the owners and directors have created such a tight sense of community throughout the school. "
International
Reggio emilia
Preschool
Academic
Montessori
Developmental (play-based)
Outdoor/nature
Cooperative
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2612 APPIAN WAY PINOLE, CA

(3)

8 mi

TULIP CHILD CARE LLC/PINOLE MONTESSORI's photo
We're a great a preschool based out of Pinole, CA. We are serving children of age group of 18 months to six years. You and your little one will be making a grand transition from home or a child care to preschool life, an outer world and we would love you to part of it. I would recommend you come and visit our preschool, I am sure you and your child will love it. We have a lot size of more than an acre with good parking spaces for parents and enough play area for children to unleash their…
SX
Sachana X. says "My son was there from 9 months to 5years. They are awesome. She is like a second mother to my child. Teaching what to eat, education and manners. Just phenomenal. No where else I would recommend! "
Day Care
Academic
Kindergarten
Preschool
Child care
Montessori
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200 Packet Landing ALAMEDA, CA

(4)

9 mi

Small Size Big Mind- Harbor Bay's photo
Small Size Big Mind Preschool (SSBM) is a family-run, licensed preschool proudly serving the Alameda community and the wonderful families who call it home. We welcome children from infancy through age 6, offering a nurturing Infant Care Program for children 0–2 years old and an engaging Preschool Program for children 2 years and up. SSBM was founded by our mother, whose vision and love for children, families, and our community continue to guide everything we do today. We are now a…
CM
Care Member says "Small Size Big Mind is incredible - I can't recommend it highly enough. The people amazing, warm, and truly care about the kids. It feels like sending our kids to a second home. The facility is extremely well built and in an unreal location. Who else gets a SF skyline view during drop off?!"
Reggio emilia
Academic
International
Outdoor/nature
Child care
Cooperative

3891 LAKESIDE DR RICHMOND, CA

(1)

9 mi

7227 - La Petite Academy on Lakeside Drive's photo
At La Petite Academy on Lakeside Drive, your child will learn and grow in a safe, nurturing environment. We we provide quality daycare, preschool programs, and summer camp in Richmond, CA. Our experienced teachers support confidence, social skills, and school readiness through engaging, hands-on learning. We provide full-time, part-time, and drop-in enrollment options, along with meals and snacks to support busy families. Our family communication app, SproutAbout, keeps you connected throughout…
CC
Carla C. says "My family and I love La Petite. The Director really cares about our children and making sure she is supporting the teachers in the classroom. She greets us every more and a small conversation in the afternoon. My daughters teachers are excited to see her and greet us with a smile and my daughhter gets a hug. It was a smooth transition and the teachers are really caring. They have made it an easy transtion to go back to work."
Child care

Showing 1 - 20 of 677

Recent drop-in child care reviews from local parents

Drop-In Child Care are rated 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 4 reviews of the 31 listed drop-in child care

The Wellness Daycare

My daughter started going to Melissa’s at 6 months old until 2.5 years old. She is a great teacher probably because her parents were also…

- Care member

Oak Center Little People Academy

Our son has been at Oak Center since he was 5 months old. He is so happily attached to his teachers especially Miss Yordi and Miss Naomi.…

- Care member

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST CATHOLIC PRESCHOOL

Writing from the perspective of the parent of an 8th grade preparing to graduate and embrace his journey to high school, our experience at…

- Care member

FAQs for finding drop-in child care near you in Berkeley, CA

You can use Care.com to find a drop-in child care center near you in Berkeley, CA. You can start by narrowing down options by location. From there you can read reviews and learn more about cost.

When you drop your child off near you in Berkeley, CA, you should expect to provide the provider with necessary information about your family and your child’s dietary needs, health concerns, and any allergies and medications. It's bes to discuss any particular requests or expectations ahead of time, but be prepared to further review any special circumstances or questions you have during the first drop off.You may also find it helpful to talk about drop off and pick up procedures as well as safety rules with your child ahead of their first day. Setting them up for success by ensuring everyone is comfortable with the arrangement will help make it a stree-free drop off!

Drop-in child care can be a great way to accommodate the ever-shifting needs of families, but it's important to make sure you are taking the necessary precautions before relying on drop-in child care. Make sure to thoroughly research any drop-in child care facility near you in Berkeley, CA you're considering, including checking reviews and discussing any questions you have. When you visit the drop-in care center in person, take time to observe and ask questions about their practices and policies, and ask about what supplies you'll need to send with your child.

Drop-in child care hours in Berkeley, CA will vary by location, but typically these services are available throughout the day. Most drop-in child care centers will open for business around 8 AM and close after 5 PM, although this can vary depending on the center’s size and organization. Some drop-in child care centers may have extended hours, so be sure to discuss your scheduling needs when interviewing your options.

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