Our Philosophy
At San Diego Cooperative Preschool, we are committed to a child-centered, play-based approach to learning. We provide ample time for uninterrupted, unstructured indoor and outdoor free play, offering hands-on activities that spark imagination, build independence, and nurture kindness. We recognize play as the foundation for meaningful learning and development, and we see each child as a unique individual- respecting and responding to their needs as they grow into confident, creative problem-solvers and independent thinkers.
Emergent Curriculum
We see each child as capable, worthy, and deserving of respect. By honoring their individuality, we support each child in developing at their own unique pace within an environment that nurtures curiosity, exploration, and joy. Our emergent curriculum is child-led and teacher-supported, allowing learning to unfold through each child’s interests and empowering them to take ownership of their educational journey.
Our Classrooms
Nestled beside a scenic canyon in San Diego’s Mission Hills/Hillcrest neighborhood, our campus offers a unique and inspiring learning environment. Each of our five classrooms includes both indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing children to move fluidly between them throughout their day. We believe that time spent outdoors is essential to meeting every child’s sensory, physical, social, emotional, and cognitive developmental needs - and helps nurture a deep connection with the natural world.
Our classrooms are designed to feel like an extension of home: warm, cozy, and welcoming. Influenced by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, we view the environment as the “third teacher”, intentionally creating spaces that invite exploration and discovery. When children feel safe and supported, they are free to thrive.
Infant Classroom:
6 months - 24 months
2:6 Ratio
Our infant program follows the RIE (pronounced “rye”) approach, which is thoughtfully designed to support infants’ and young toddlers’ natural curiosity and drive to explore. The environment is both safe and intellectually engaging, featuring simple objects such as stacking cups, bowls, and balls that encourage interaction and discovery.
In RIE, caregivers are known as ‘educarers”— a term that reflects the philosophy’s focus on fostering gross motor, fine motor, and social-emotional development. RIE educarers practice careful observation to better understand each child’s needs and developmental stage. A core principle of RIE is treating children as active participants in their daily routines, rather than passive recipients of care.
Toddler Classroom:
18 months - 36 months
2:12 Ratio
Our toddler program offers a nurturing, stimulating environment that supports early development through play-based learning. We emphasize social-emotional growth, encouraging autonomy and independence to help children build confidence. Through hands-on activities, children explore, create, and connect in meaningful ways. These experiences promote language development, enhance physical coordination and strength, and support overall cognitive growth in a joyful and supportive setting.
Preschool Classrooms:
2:15 Ratio
Preschool 1: 24 months and up
Preschool 2: 30 months and up
Preschool 3: 3 years and up
Our preschool classrooms provide an enriching and meaningful experience that nurtures independence, individuality, and creativity. In our mixed-age setting, children learn from one another—older students take on leadership roles, while younger ones benefit from exposure to more advanced concepts such as literacy, science, and math.
Our program emphasizes key developmental skills such as independence, communication, self-regulation, and problem-solving—all essential for future academic success. We aim to prepare children not only for school but for life, equipping them with the confidence, empathy, and resilience needed to face challenges with courage.
When children leave our care, we want them to know they are valued, respected, and loved—and to carry with them the tools to thrive both academically and personally.
“Play is the highest expression of human development in childhood for it alone is the free espression of what is in the child’s soul.”