Early Learning, Academic & Child Care Programs

At Woodside West School, we provide a strong academic foundation for children in Santa Rosa, CA, through engaging, age-appropriate programs that foster social, emotional, and cognitive development. From toddlers exploring the world around them to older children preparing for kindergarten and beyond, our academic programs are thoughtfully designed to meet the unique needs of each stage of childhood. 📞 Call us at  707-528-6666 to learn more or schedule a visit today!

Preschool and Pre-K: Learning Through Play and Discovery

Our preschool and pre-K programs are designed for children ages 2 to 5 and are divided into three distinct classes to ensure developmentally appropriate learning experiences:

Scooters (Ages 2 to 3+)

Exploring Through Senses and Movement

At this early stage, children are developing rapidly in both body and brain. Rooted in Piaget’s Sensorimotor Stage, our young toddler program offers a rich environment where children learn through movement, exploration, and sensory experiences. We support emerging skills like language, motor coordination, and self-awareness with play-based learning, music, and hands-on activities. Guided by Gesell’s principles of maturation, we recognize that each child develops at their own pace. Our nurturing environment respects these natural rhythms, creating space for curiosity, trust, and joyful discovery. Toilet mastery is also a part of our curriculum for those students who are learning about using the “potty”.

Rockets (Ages 3+ to 4+)

Imagining, Imitating and Engaging

Children at this age are transitioning into Piaget’s Preoperational Stage, where imagination blossoms and symbolic play becomes central to learning. Our program encourages storytelling, pretend play, early social skills, and emerging independence. Inspired by Gesell’s belief in developmental readiness, we provide activities that align with each child’s stage of maturity—supporting fine and gross motor skills, expressive language, and emotional growth. Small-group learning and consistent routines help children feel secure while gently challenging them to grow.

Transitional Kindergarten (Ages 4–5)

Building Skills and Confidence

In the heart of the preoperational stage, children begin to use logic in their own way, ask thoughtful questions, and form friendships. Our TK program focuses on foundational academic skills through play and exploration—pre-reading, math concepts, scientific inquiry, and social development. Using Gesell’s approach, we emphasize individualized pacing and recognize that readiness for more structured learning varies. Activities are tailored to nurture emerging skills while fostering creativity and confidence.

Programs Offered

  • Morning preschool and pre-kindergarten readiness.
  • Transitional kindergarten with optional extended care.
  • Child care for the full day, including preschool/TK for ages 2 to 6 years.
  • Big Kid's Club for before/after school care and summer full-day camp, ages 6 to 12 years of age.
  • Transportation from several nearby public schools.
  • Summer Readiness for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten. 
  • Big Kid's Summer Club is for ages 6 through age 12.
  • Off-site local field trips for select classes require some parent participation. All information is provided in advance.

Hours of Operation And Schedules

Open 6:45 a.m. to 6 p.m.

We are open Monday through Friday for child care on a year-round basis. You can choose year-round, school-year-only, or summer-only programs. 

  • 8:45am-11:45am (mandatory), half day up to 5 hours, up to 8 hours, over 8-10 hours, or before/after school (school year).
  • BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CARE in our Big Kid's Club is available for public school TK-6th grade students and Woodside West School Transitional Kindergarten students.
  • ADDITIONAL DROP-IN CARE is available for currently enrolled students when space is available. Please contact your school's director in advance to make arrangements for this service.
  • EXTRACURRICULAR SERVICES may be offered at various times. 

Big Kid’s Club: School Year and Summer Camp

Our Big Kid’s Club is year-round and open to children ages 5 to 12. This program supports academic growth and offers enriching experiences before school, after school, and during holidays. Our summer Big Kid's Club is a fun and adventurous day camp.

 

In the Big Kid’s Club, students benefit from a well-rounded mix of

 

  • Creative activities like drama, journaling, and music.
  • Academic reinforcement through supervised homework support and reading time.
  • Physical play indoors and outdoors.
  • Science-based exploration and themed activities.
  • Field trips and special events such as campouts and sleepovers.

 

We also offer transportation from selected local schools, making it convenient for working families. For currently enrolled students, additional drop-in care is available when space permits—just reach out to your school's director in advance to coordinate.

Our Teaching Approach: Rooted in Developmental Excellence

Across all programs, Woodside West School’s approach blends respected educational philosophies from Piaget, Gesell and Montessori, offering developmentally appropriate experiences in a nurturing, joyful environment. Our teachers are dedicated professionals who adapt activities to fit each child’s unique learning style and pace.

 

We prioritize:

 

  • Building confidence and self-esteem.
  • Encouraging cooperation and curiosity.
  • Fostering a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom.
  • Creating a safe space for self-expression and growth.

 

Our programs are structured but flexible, offering children the consistency they need while allowing room to explore and thrive.

See Why Families Trust Woodside West School

For over 50 years, families in Santa Rosa, CA, have chosen Woodside West School as their partner in education. Whether you’re looking for preschool, pre-K, TK, or a well-rounded program for your school-aged child, we’re here to help your child start strong and grow with confidence.

FAQs About Pre-K in Santa Rosa, CA

Choosing the right pre-K in Santa Rosa, CA, is an exciting yet important decision for every family. At Woodside West School, we know that parents want to understand what makes our programs special and how they support early learning and growth. Our dedicated teachers create a nurturing space where children build confidence, curiosity, and essential academic and social skills.


Whether you’re comparing programs or preparing your child for their first classroom experience, our preschool in Santa Rosa, CA, offers the guidance and structure your child needs to thrive. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions parents ask about our pre-K and preschool programs.


Get in Touch With Us Today

  • What Is the Difference Between Pre-K and Preschool?

    Both preschool and pre-K prepare children for kindergarten, but they focus on slightly different stages of development. Preschool introduces children to early learning through play and social exploration, while pre-K builds on those skills with more structured lessons in reading, math, and problem-solving. At our pre-K in Santa Rosa, CA, we blend both approaches, ensuring children learn at a pace that feels natural, fun, and engaging.

  • What Age Should My Child Start Pre-K?

    Most children begin pre-K in Santa Rosa, CA, around ages four to five, depending on their readiness and comfort level. We evaluate each child individually to ensure they’re placed in a setting that matches their developmental stage. Our goal is to create an environment where children feel confident, capable, and excited to learn each day.

  • How Does Woodside West School Support Learning Through Play?

    At our preschool in Santa Rosa, CA, we believe play is the foundation of learning. Our teachers design hands-on activities that foster imagination, cooperation, and problem-solving. Whether it’s storytelling, building with blocks, or exploring nature, each experience supports cognitive, social, and emotional growth—preparing children for success in kindergarten and beyond.

  • What Can Parents Expect From the Daily Schedule?

    Each day at our pre-K in Santa Rosa, CA, follows a balanced routine that includes creative play, outdoor exploration, storytime, and early academics. We emphasize consistency and structure while allowing flexibility for children’s natural curiosity. Parents can expect a nurturing and engaging environment that encourages children to grow, explore, and have fun.

Want to learn more about our programs? Call 707-528-6666 today!