Seeking a Spanish-Speaking Preschool/Daycare

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  • Seeking a play-based, Spanish-immersion school

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    Jun 13, 2023

    Hi BPN!

    We are looking for a daycare/school for our daughter who recently turned 2. Not sure if we are asking for too much, but we are hoping to find:

    • Play-based - ideal would be if the owner / teachers are familiar with or just naturally follow a RIE or child-led approach
    • Spanish-immersion
    • Serves healthy lunches and snacks - I know healthy is subjective, we mainly just care about added sugar 
    • Somewhere in Berkeley

    Anyone know of a unicorn place that meets some or all of these criteria? Thank you so much!

    Jun 13, 2023

    Try Wawasi in Albany? They speak Spanish with the kids, though not immersion, and serve healthy food. My kid ate vegetables there that he never ate at home. They’re mostly play based but I think they did do some basic letter and number stuff. 

    Jun 14, 2023

    New School is not Spanish-immersion, but they are an excellent play-based preschool in Berkeley that does not allow added sugar.  They serve hearty healthy snacks but don't provide lunch.  My kids went there and thrived.

    Jun 14, 2023

    I can highly recommend two such pre-schools.  La Familia is owner run in her home, very loving, and homemade healthy food -- a great community!  We loved it.  She doesn't have a webiste, but knows child development and each child's need.  https://www.google.com/search?q=la+familia+preschool+oakland+ca&rlz=1C5…

    The other one is a coop.  Las Semillitas.  https://lassemillitas.org/

    Jun 14, 2023

    KSS in Albany offers a play based Spanish immersion preschool starting at 2.  It is in Memorial Park near Solano Ave and only a few blocks over the Berkeley border.

    Jun 14, 2023

    Via Nova near Ashby BART may be a good fit. You would be providing the food, but it meets the other criteria. 

    Jun 14, 2023

    You might try Arbor Berkeley or Oakland, both are on the border between Berkeley and Oakland. They are not immersion, but they do Spanish-English, and they are very open and play-based, with many parents that are into RIE. Their snacks and activities for the kids are more diverse than most places, and they don't do junk food or sugary snacks. They also focus on a lot of outdoor time, which my kid loves. 

    They start at 2.5 and are good up to about age 4 to 4.5. They are great with the younger kids, but don't have anyone on staff for TK, and have a required 2 hour nap/rest which doesn't work for a lot of the older kids as they outgrow nap. This is a general issue with preschools though, so if you're kid's not a great napper, or won't go to bed after napping, 1/2 preschool (if that's an option), or a preschool that has a program that goes through K or later can work better because they usually don't require the nap after 4. Some of the Montessori preschools are 3-6, which seems to work better for the older kids, but universal TK seems to be making leaving preschool early a more popular option. The only other warning about Arbor is that they're just a couple years old, so things are not entirely ironed out yet with the management and processes, and they have shorter hours than most places with extended care. 

    Another popular option for Spanish immersion is EBI, which is a certified international baccalaureate that starts in preschool and goes through grade 8. There are lots of reviews of EBI online since they've been around longer. Applications are in the winter for the following fall. Mi Mundo is another preschool on the Oakland/Berkeley border, and small like Arbor. There are other Spanish language preschools around, and many have reviews on Berkeley Parent's Network. It's best to check them out in person though, because that's the best way to get a feeling about fit for your family. 

    Jun 14, 2023

    Check out arbor! Their Berkeley location in the southeast corner of Berkeley has been amazing for our kiddo. If you want more info about our experience, let me know

    Jun 14, 2023

    Our son goes to Kidsland Berkeley and we absolutely love it. Feel free to message me if you have any questions, otherwise I highly recommend reaching out to Ana and doing a tour. Facility is super clean and my child lights up every time we walk up to the door—he loves his teachers and it’s mixed ages which I think is so great for development. Good luck!

    Jul 28, 2023

  • Spanish speaking daycare with openings?

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    May 10, 2023

    Is anyone at a Spanish speaking home daycare in Oakland that has openings starting in July or August? I am looking for my two year old. She thrives in the small daycare environment. I need a place that is open at least 8 AM-5:30 PM, and hoping for play-based or other environment that respects kids, practices consent in interactions with kids and really nurtures their freedom and growth in these toddler years. We speak a mix of Spanish and English in the home. I know there's no perfect place, and really appreciate all recommendations and suggestions. Thank you

    May 10, 2023

    Academia de mi Abuela in Montclair has openings. They are open 7:30am-5:30pm. I have had 2 kids through the program and we have been happy with their care. 

    May 17, 2023

    Hi - Check out Mechita Daycare in Temescal. Our 2-year old will be leaving Mechita after 7 happy loving months there, to attend a preschool closer to our home. Her spot will be open as of the beginning of August unless they've already filled it. She has been very happy there and loves the small group of kids ranging in age from 18 mos to 4 years. I'm happy to answer more questions if you end up considering them.

    May 17, 2023

    Are you specifically looking for a home daycare?  I know some of the private schools start at 2.5 years old so that may be an option if the financial component is manageable.

    May 17, 2023

    I can recommend La Familia Cooperativa Spanish Immersion Preschool https://www.facebook.com/people/La-Familia-Co-op/100057330885514/

    and Las Semillitas Cooperative Preschool https://lassemillitas.org.  My daughter attended both and we loved both.  I personally liked Las Semillitas more, but at the time were only part-time.  They may be full-time now.

    May 17, 2023

    Las Manitas Montessori in Emeryville (North Oakland border) is the place you are looking for!  They are a Bilingual Montessori home-based preschool provided in English and Spanish for ages 2 through 5. We spent a total of 7 years there with both of my kids, who still remember their times there fondly. You can reach them at 415-595-9718 or real_jahleel at yahoo.com. You can also search for their information and glowing reviews on BPN. 

    May 17, 2023

  • Spanish immersion preschool, outdoor time, freedom for kids....

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    Dec 15, 2022

    Hey folks, I'm looking for recommendations for preschools for my kid, who will be 2 years 8 months next August.  Priorities, more or less in order of importance:

    * Positive supportive environment where kids are loved and valued

    * Outdoor time and enjoyable outdoor space

    * Diversity (students and teachers), including race, family structure, queer families...

    * Location: preferably between north Oakland and north Berkeley

    * Spanish immersion

    We also like art, cooking, and gardening as activities.  Got anywhere you love?  We need at least 4 days, at least 9-4 pm -- so morning-only programs aren't enough, but it doesn't have to be super high coverage.  Open to co-ops.  

    Dec 15, 2022

    My kids loved New School, which checks all your boxes except Spanish immersion.

    Dec 21, 2022

    This doesn't. meet all your criteria, but we have loved La Plazita for both my kids. There are a few different locations, but they're in East Oakland, so maybe not workable location-wise. But the hours are great, the prices are reasonable, it's a Spanish-immersion program with super dedicated and loving teachers and staff, lots of outdoor time, focus on some "academic" skills like letter and number recognition but not at the expense of lots of free play and imagination. If you can make the location work I highly recommend!

    Dec 21, 2022

    If there is an adult in the family that currently speaks to your child in Spanish, and child already speaks Spanish, then I can HIGHLY recommend these two pre-schools.  My daughter attended both, switching at that time only because of schedule, but I think that school now has longer hours than before.  La Familia:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.phpid=100057330885514

    and Las Semillitas: https://lassemillitas.org

    Dec 21, 2022

    We sent our kids to Mi Mundo and Via Nova, both in South Berkeley, and both were great (switched between kids mainly for logistical reasons). Mi Mundo is Spanish immersion and our kid came out speaking Spanish pretty well. The program is art-based so he came home with lots of amazing art projects and really got into making art while he was there. Via Nova is "bilingual" meaning there is some Spanish, but nothing like the immersion at Mi Mundo - I think true immersion is hard to find around here, but there are a number of bilingual programs. The outdoor space at Via Nova is great and the director is super knowledgeable and intentional about early childhood development. Both places have great teachers, great communities, and about as much diversity as we see in our Berkeley public school (Berkeley is just becoming whiter and richer, so the preschools reflect that too).

    Dec 21, 2022

    I can't recommend Mi Mundo, on Alcatraz Av just east of Adeline St with another location in El Cerrito, enough. It's Spanish immersion and art-based, and checks all the rest of your boxes too, I think. Our son James was there for 3 years.

    Dec 21, 2022

    CEC on university in Berkeley would fit your description. We were really happy with them for the 3 years our daughter was there prior to going to TK. The director is a woman of color with a PhD, and there are quite a few languages and ethnicities represented in the teachers and families. Outdoor space and rotating activities are really great (my daughter had yoga, swimming, capoeira, cooking, gardening, and prior to the pandemic they walked the kids to the library for storytime). Check them out!

    Dec 21, 2022

    Check out Kensington Nursery school if you are willing to go a bit further north. Great community, a variety of skin tones and cultures, lots of outdoor space, Spanish spoken some and Spanish songs were taught though not immersion, cooking, probably some gardening. It's been about 8 years since my kiddo was there. I think it was open from 8-6 but check out their website for the current feel of it. It is a co-op that had a wonderful community feel. 

    Dec 22, 2022

    Our 2.5 year old daughter attends Kidsland Annex (near El Cerrito). They have a sister site located on Dwight Way in Berkeley as well. They are Spanish immersion with hours from 8am-5pm M-F. The schedule is pretty flexible--we only use them 4 days a week and drop-off around 9am. The student population is small but diverse. They have a great outdoor space and host lots of fun on-site events during the holidays. The teachers are great and we love the program. Highly recommend as it seems to check off all your boxes.

    Jan 12, 2023

  • Which Spanish immersion preschool?

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    Feb 16, 2022

    We're interested in sending our child to a Spanish immersion preschool and can't decide between Mi Mundo and Kidsland.  Looking for thoughts on either or a comparison.  How are they for kids?  What's it like as a parent?  Feel free to contact me directly if you have some thoughts that would be better not to share with the wider world.  Thanks!

    Feb 16, 2022

    If a parent in household speaks fluent Spanish, I HIGHLY recommend either La Familia (part-time only), or Las Semillitas.  Both in Oakland.  My daughter went to both, and it was great community, great social-emotional, and 100% in Spanish and in culture.

    Feb 16, 2022

  • Preschool for my Spanish-speaking child

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    Jan 10, 2022

    I'm having a VERY hard time assessing whether sending our child, who primarily speaks Spanish, to an English-speaking preschool would speed up language loss in an irreversible way, and she would not be eligible for Berkeley's public bilingual/two-way immersion elementary program. She currently only speaks Spanish, as both her parents speak Spanish to her. She hears some English, and understands several words, but has not formally learned English and does not socialize in English. We are considering a couple of Berkeley Jewish preschools (Gan Shalom, Beth El Nursery School) as well as The Berkeley School. All these schools have some staff who speak in Spanish but who regularly use English with the children. We are also considering Centro Vida in Berkeley (in Spanish). We want the best quality play-based educational environment that values community and culture, without speeding up language shift. Any other parents who have dealt with how to raise bilingual children successfully? We have found that most "Spanish-immersion" preschools in Berkeley are full of kids who don't speak Spanish at home so kids essentially don't really participate in Spanish at school or talk to each other in Spanish, and community events are in English. Additionally, there aren't that many supplemental programs right now in Spanish or that center Latinx culture.  Any advice on any of the programs we are considering, especially from Spanish-speaking families is hugely appreciated! THANKS FOR YOUR ADVICE!

    Jan 10, 2022

    My almost-three year old son is half Latino, and my husband and I really want him to grow up speaking Spanish so he has facility with it as an adult. We speak English at home, though. For the first two years of his life he had a Spanish-speaking babysitter and he understands her. When it came time to go to preschool I tried hard to find one for him that was Spanish-speaking but competition to get into ANY preschool is fierce. He was accepted to a preschool in North Berkeley call the New School (on Bonita Avenue) where they are Spanish-friendly. What this means is that he has a teacher whose primary language is Spanish though she's fully bilingual, and she speaks to him in Spanish. That's the best I've been able to do. As far as I know, there are some openings for the New School in the fall of 2022. You've probably already figured this out, but there are more small, in-home, Spanish speaking preschools or daycares the closer you get to Oakland. Buena suerte!

    Jan 12, 2022

    Based on our experience: Your kid has a much, much, much better chance of getting into Sylvia Mendez if she is a Spanish-speaker at the time of assessment.  If you put your kid in an English-speaking preschool, she will likely be fully bilingual or possibly even English dominant by the time she is assessed.  If it very very difficult to keep a child Spanish-speaking in an English-speaking culture.  SUPER HARD!  

    This is based on the experience of my two kids. One is now 12 and one is 16, both are product of the BUSD TWI program.  It is an excellent program at a wonderful school with truly stellar teachers.  There are hundreds of kids who are competing for 60 English-speaking slots, and they are always short on Spanish-speaking kids.  Spanish speaking kids are pretty much guaranteed to get in.  My kids both had several friends who grew up in Spanish-speaking households whose first language was Spanish, and who quickly lost Spanish fluency and comfort when they entered into English preschool.  This is a common occurrence.  

    My youngest is a graduate of Centro Vida.  Hands down, if you have that option, I would suggest you go for it.  She still talks fondly about her teachers, the amazing activities they did there, and the food.  It helped her develop a sense of pride in speaking Spanish and being Latina.  

    Great work on trying to hard to help your kid speak Spanish.  It is hard but worth it!  My kids are fully bilingual, read and write in English and Spanish, and most importantly to us - converse easily and beautifully in Spanish with elder family members, people on the street, and little kids in parks :).

    Jan 12, 2022

    I can't speak to the programs you mentioned. We adopted our daughter from Guatemala, and committed to raising her bilingually despite neither my husband nor I being Spanish speakers. I studied Spanish, helped by other languages I'd studied plus preteen Spanish a million years before.  Reading kids' books in Spanish helped (lots of repetition), plus having a Spanish-speaking half-time nanny. My daughter and I communicated in Spanish until she was about 3.5, at which point she switched me into English.  When she was 4, we enrolled her in EBI.  As you appear to have observed, in programs like EBI, the kids have Spanish in the classroom, but on the playground it's all English.  The kids really do use Spanish in the classroom, however, and the staff there are largely native speakers who address the kids in Spanish, so they really do learn Spanish, even if home life is all in English.  At Berkeley High, our daugher finished AP Spanish in 10th grade, so unfortunately she's just getting English now in her junior year.  Had she gone through the Berkeley Spanish immersion program, she'd be in the same situation.

    Despite all these limitations, she is fluent in Spanish, and more to the point, she's bilingual.  That is, when she's speaking Spanish, she thinks in Spanish, and she sometimes dreams in Spanish.

    I believe that if you continue to speak Spanish with your child, she will easily retain her Spanish, and may start school having more difficulties with English. The only downside is that, without schooling in Spanish, she may miss out on more formal language.  My daughter notes that her Spanish sounds very scholastic, and I've known people who spoke Spanish at home who complained that they only knew kids' Spanish.  You can address this by ensuring your daughter gets more formal language at home, by continuing to read with her during her school years, seeking out other Spanish-language media (movies, videos, magazines, newspapers), and pulling her into grown-up conversations.

    I wish you success!  Your daughter's life will be richer for knowing two languages.

    Jan 12, 2022

    Hola! Nosotros estabamos en lo mismo, mi hija solo habla español pero en su daycare (que nos encanta) aunque las que cuidan hablan en español todos los niños hablan en ingles y ya esta empezando a aprender ingles de ellos. Yo tambien quiero alentar ese proceso todo lo posible pues se lo dificil que es que los chiquitos sigan con el español. Pronto se va ir a Centro Vida pero hemos estado en el waiting list desde antes que nació. Me encanta esa comunidad y te la recomiendo muchisimo pero no estoy segura si podrá entrar su hij@ dependiendo de la lista. Yo quería tener otra opción y la que más me gustó (por mucho!) fue Las Semillitas https://lassemillitas.org/ tengo una amiga (Mexicana) que tuvo a su hijo alli y le encantó. Hize todo el proceso con ellos (open house, etc.) y es una comunidad y escuela increible, basada en jugar (igual que Centro Vida), y lo muy diferente y lindo de Las Semillitas es que requieren que por lo menos un papa de cada familia hable en español y que lo hablen en casa. Tienen mucho enfoque muy lindo en nuestra cultura...por ejemplo en el open house tenian pan dulce. Esta un poco lejos (en Oakland) pero no hay trafico llendo para alla asi que hubieramos escojido esa escuela si no tuvieramos el espacio en Centro Vida. Si quieres una conección, avisame. Mucha suerte!!

    Jan 12, 2022

    Hi Ariela,

    I am not fluent but have solely spoken 95% spanish to my 2.5 year old at home. He is outgrowing my husband's phrases and high school spanish. But we try as hard as we can, as non native speakers to speak as much Spanish as possible at home. So we are not in the same situation as you by any means. But I wanted to share and connect as I do hope to connect our kid with spanish speaking amigos along the way before kindergarten as we are also hoping to be a part of the two way immersion program.  

    We currently are in a home based daycare right next to Centro Vida called Chairez Montessori. This is not an immersion or spanish speaking school. It is small, 12 kids, 0-5 years old and Lupe the lead teacher is mexican and speaks primarily to the kids in spanish. Or will translate both english and spanish. I am not sure this is what you are looking for but it is sweet and our 2.5 year old's spanish and english are developing. The play language is definitely english but I am ok with that especially as a non native speaker. I have also been following some bilingual mamas on instagram who have a lot to say on that and it seems pretty normal for the kids to play in a majority language. I am not sure this is the answer you are looking for but we also hope to access the two way immersion when it's time for Kindergarten. Centro vida also seems very sweet and I didn't know much about it until after we started at Chairez. 

    If you would like to connect and see if our kids would play in Spanish or would like to chat more, I'd be happy to hear what you find as well!

    Jan 12, 2022

    Hi - I am reaching out because my son (4 years old) current dominant language is Spanish as well. My wife and I only speak Spanish at home and when we do playdates with other parents who do not speak Spanish, we speak a bit of English to him. He has been in preschool for about 1.5 years and at first there was a teacher that spoke to him in Spanish since he didn't understand English to well which helped him quite a bit. We felt that he didn't understand the other kids plus he was not able to communicate in English. On top of that, being at a new school with a whole bunch of other elements. In his second year, he does not have a teach that speaks to him in English but we continue to speak to him in Spanish at all time at home and outside the home. So far, he has continued to speak to Spanish at all times but his English has approved quite a bit. If you are able to send him to a preschool whose primary language is Spanish that would be great. We didn't go down that path since we didn't have the option due to distance and cost. I did come across Escuela Bilingue Internacional (they have a monthly story time via Zoom in Spanish which is great) located in Oakland/Emeryville. It looks like a great school but expensive from my perspective. Another choice that looks really good is La Plazita Preschool located in San Leandro and Oakland. Since my son is currently not going to a bilingual school, we will continue to speak with him in Spanish plus read to him in Spanish as well as watch movies. It also has helped him develop Spanish when we have traveled to Latin America. Let me know if you need any further advice. My wife and I are also looking to connect with other Latinx families who speak primary Spanish to their kids. We live in San Leandro so it would be great connect. Good luck!

    Jan 12, 2022

    My son has been at Centro Vida/Bahia since he was 2 (he’s now 4 1/2). We love it.  At 2 he was primarily spanish speaking and barely understood basic English. We wanted a Spanish speaking school because English was inevitable and wanted to emphasize on Spanish in his younger years. My partner and I speak Spanish at home and to our kiddo and English sometimes between just the two of us.

    Its been amazing. Not just the teachers speak Spanish but a lot of the children are native Spanish speakers too. There are many latinx families and the school does a great job of highlighting latinx culture throughout the day to day and extra curricular happenings. Every year (it’s been modified with covid) they do a dia de los muertos celebration where families get to build their own altars and all get to mix and mingle and dance. This past year there were low riders, mariachis, great food, and more! They do a tamalada where families fundraiser for the school by selling tamales made by the parents! The children are fed breakfast lunch and snacks. All food prepared  by their amazing chef Maria is all latinx inspired. Seriously my son eats pozole on Monday and tostadas de frijoles y aguacate on Friday.

    My kiddo’s naturally learned a lot of English because there are English speaking kids. However, his Spanish is dominant, and more than that he’s using phrases and words that I have to look up! 

    Centro Vida/ Bahia has been amazing throughout the whole pandemic. Super transparent. Helpful with finding resources for testing and vaccination sites. Sending up updated policies and prosecutes and holding school wide zoom calls for parents monthly. Truly couldn’t be happier. They’re family.

    good luck!

    Jan 13, 2022

    We are not native Spanish-speakers but I speak pretty well and have lived in Latin America, and I wanted our kids to learn Spanish. We sent our older son to Mi Mundo and although most kids speak English at home it is truly immersion - teachers only speak Spanish, including if the kids say something to the teachers in English, the teachers translate it back to them in Spanish. The kids speak English to each other but Spanish to the teachers, and our son was speaking it really well after two years. Our younger son is at Via Nova, which calls itself bilingual but it is definitely less than half in Spanish (we love it for other reasons, but this is a big downside).

    If I were you I would do everything you can to keep up the Spanish until the TWI assessment - once your kid is into Sylvia Mendez, she'll get so much Spanish reinforcement, but if she doesn't test into the Spanish-speaking lottery it's very hard. My son tested in for TK, but then the pandemic hit and we couldn't find a way to keep it up and he didn't test in for K and we are really really sad about it - obviously our experience is different because we aren't reinforcing it well enough at home, but just wanted to reiterate how brutal the TWI lottery is!

    Jan 19, 2022

  • Preschool Spanish Immersion in Oakland

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    Nov 3, 2021

    Hello, 

    I'm in search of a Spanish Immersion preschool in Oakland - ideally near Glenview.  Do you know of any that prepare kids well for kindergarten? 
    I have a 2.5 year old boy and would love him to start this Spring or next Fall. 

    Thank you!

    Nov 3, 2021

    EBI and KSS. They are both great programs. We did not choose them because we wanted more play based and less academic but they prepare kids well for K. 

    Nov 6, 2021

    We've been very happy at Colibri, which is near Piedmont. Our oldest graduated from there and was in a good spot for kindergarten academically, socially and emotionally, despite him finishing in the midst of the pandemic. Our 4 year old is there now and our 2 year old will start there next year. I think the program is well balanced- enough structured activities with the maestras to give the kids a good foundation in Spanish and introduction to pre-literacy skills but also a developmentally appropriate amount of free play. Our oldest is now in an immersion elementary school and doing well.

    Nov 10, 2021

  • Recommendations for Spanish daycare/ preschool near Richmond

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    Jul 12, 2021

    Hi, 

    Our kid has been going to a Spanish immersion daycare and we are looking for a daycare/preschool that are Spanish immersion that are in the $1800-$2000 / month range.  Does anyone have any recommendations they can share?

    Jul 12, 2021

    We've been at 1,2,3 Learn with Me in San Pablo, which is a daycare/preschool. They are wonderful. https://www.berkeleyparentsnetwork.org/recommend/preschool/123

    Jul 14, 2021

    Our daughter goes to Del Norte Childcare now on Cutting and will transfer to Mi Mundo for preschool in August, both Spanish immersion. Our youngest will start attending the Spanish immersion home daycare, Fun Times, might be worth checking into these options to see if they fit your needs. 

    Jul 14, 2021

    If this is close to your area check out La Casita Bilingue Montessori in Pinole. My son is 9 now and attended five years ago for his last year of preschool and we were very happy with it- it was a great community. Reasonably priced and he still keep in touch with his friends from there. 

    Jul 14, 2021

    This lady and her family are by far the most loving and supportive daycare provider.  Both of my girls went to her.  

    [Name] Tia Sandra Saenz
    [Work info] Anielka Family Day Care
    [Work] (510) 234-1349
    [Work] 149 South 22nd Street 
    Richmond, CA 94804

    Jul 15, 2021

  • Day care in Oakland for 18month old- prefer spanish immersion

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    Aug 12, 2018

    Hello

    We are looking for a daycare in Oakland for our daughter starting in January. She will be 18months at this time.  We would love a spanish immersion program, but a loving daycare is the most important. We do not speak spanish so we are looking for a place that the caregivers speak English as well as Spanish.

    Our daughter is loving and sweet but on the shy side so we are looking for a smaller setting to start her out in. 

    We have looked into a lot of places that were previously recommend on BPN but most of them required her to be 2 -3 years old.

    Any help would be appreciated! 

    [Moderator Note] You can search for Spanish-speaking daycares on BPN's search form here:  https://www.berkeleyparentsnetwork.org/daycares-preschools -- choose Facility Type =Home-based Daycare and City=Oakland and Language=Spanish. (There are 39 matches to this search!)

    Aug 12, 2018

    My 20 month old son is at Monte Tavor and we love it! Teachers only speak Spanish to the kids, but everyone can speak English and I can communicate with the owner and teacher in English. It's bigger than we were aiming for, but the kids have mini groups with their own teacher and kids their age, so it doesn't feel big. My son has been there since 12 months and has absolutely loved it.

    Aug 15, 2018

    Hey there--We have been thrilled with Mechita Daycare for the past 3 years. Our son just "graduated" but our daughter is still there and loves it. It's a home daycare, so the whole family is involved with childcare. Mercedes, the mom, cooks healthy Peruvian food (breakfast and lunch) from scratch which the kids adore. There is a play area in front and they often go to Little Frog and Frog Park, walks in the neighborhood, story time at the library, etc. There is a lot of free play time, but we also get lots of art work and bits and pieces of Spanish language songs that our kids come home singing. All in all, it's a loving environment and I highly encourage you to check it out. Usually she has 4-6 kids so it's also smallish.

    Aug 15, 2018

    If you are willing to go to Berkeley, we highly recommend Nana’s house!

    Aug 15, 2018

  • Spanish immersion preschool

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    Jul 8, 2018

    I'm interested in sending my daughter to KSS (Kids Speaking Spanish) preschool. I would love to hear about any recent experiences of the school and teachers. (I heard the school is moving to Montclair, but a new owner is staying in the old location?). Can you recommend another Spanish immersion preschool? Thanks! Pamela

    Jul 8, 2018

    My son recently finished two years at La Plazita Preschool in Oakland and it was fabulous. 

    Jul 11, 2018

    I can't speak to KSS, but I can strongly recommend Escuela Bilingüe Internacional (EBI). My two daughters went through their preschool. The teachers are amazingly loving and able to deeply connect with the kids and help them through the sometimes challenging transition to school. EBI is an International Baccalaureate (IB) school that extends PK - 8, and the inquiry based approach to learning also extends into the pre-K program. The kids at EBI actually ENJOY learning and love going to school.  And of course, this is all done 100% in Spanish.  My wife and I do not speak Spanish, but both of my kids are near or at grade level fluency in Spanish. Even after just 2 years, they could have full conversations with their teachers in Spanish.

    Jul 11, 2018

    We had a great immersion experience at Escuela Bilingue Internacional on Alcatraz near Telegraph. Our son attended pre-K there for two years. The teachers are very warm and nurturing, and we also enjoyed the community. Additionally EBI offers the International Baccalaureate program, where even pre-K students have thoughtful multi-week units of inquiry, where they explore themes such as "Who we are" and "How we express ourselves through art." And lastly, their music teacher is a gem.  

    Jul 11, 2018

    I think you might be confusing things. When KSS left their prior location on Piedmont Avenue, some KSS employees took over the Piedmont Avenue facility and opened Colibrí. KSS is currently sharing space with a church on Park Boulevard. They were supposed to move to the former Women’s Club in Montclair this year, but I don’t know the status of that.

    My child will be attending La Plazita, which I’ve heard lots of good things about. If you do searches on this site, you will find other options. (Monte Tavor, EBI, Mi Mundo are a few that come to mind.)

    Jul 12, 2018

    Both my girls have attended La Plazita and we have been very happy there. Great teachers, great directors, great community. I highly recommend it!

    Jul 18, 2018

  • Spanish Immersion Preschool for almost-2-year-old

    –
    Apr 27, 2018

    We're looking to enroll our almost-2-year-old son in a Spanish immersion preschool.  So far we have looked at Monte Tavor and La Plazita.  Any insight into experiences there as well as recommendations for other schools would be much appreciated.  We live in Lakeshore but are considering pretty much all parts of Oakland.  Thanks!

    Apr 27, 2018

    I recommend Mi Mundo on Alcatraz in Berkeley.  The two teachers who run it are native Spanish speakers.  They are also kind and nurturing.  I would not hesitate to entrust my kids to them again.

    May 2, 2018

    We've only been at at EBI (our son is older than yours) but a number of his classmates had a great experience at Monte Tavor and were very well-prepared for K in EBI's immersion program.

    May 2, 2018

    My son is 16 months old and goes to Monte Tavor and we love it! They take babies to preschoolers, but separate the kids into age groups with different curriculum. I can't speak to the preschool curriculum, but my son absolutely loves his teachers, his first word was in Spanish, and he always seems very happy and engaged. The owners are always very responsive if you have questions. They also have fun events like Earth Day gardening, and a zoo mobile. We have only been there for six months so far, but are really happy with our choice.

    May 2, 2018

    I have a  two daughters (4 and 2). My youngest has attended Monte Tavor since she was five months old and loves it. My oldest started at Monte Tavor when she was 2 and went to Escuela Bilingue Internacional (EBI) when she turned 3. I can highly recommend Monte Tavor. When your son gets older I would suggest you check out EBI as well. The preK program is for 3-5 then they have a K-8 program.The EBI program has more of a school feel than the home based/care centers. That's not necessarily a bad thing.   I have been very impressed with the PreK program at EBI. My oldest is thriving, very confident in her spanish, and loves going to school. 

    May 2, 2018

    I highly recommend Escuela Bilingue Internacinal(EBI).   We have a 2nd grader and a child entering preschool in the fall. It is a warm and caring environment, with a wonderful team of  teachers.  Everyone speaks Spanish and most are native speakers.  There are a few tours in the coming weeks and they may have an opening for fallhttps://www.ebinternacional.org/  

    May 2, 2018

    We chose EBI because there was a clear pipeline to Kinder and beyond in case we wanted to stay longer than PK... and we did. Despite having a spot one of the most coveted OUSD K-8th grade schools for my son, we elected to bite the bullet and stay so that we could have a bilingual child... So it's helpful to think about the big picture.

    May 2, 2018

    Hi there,

    I want to recommend EBI, Escuela Bilingüe Internacional, a Spanish Immersion pre-K and K-8 school.  This is our second year at the school; I have a daughter in 3rd grade and a son in 1st grade.  Though I cannot speak directly to the experience of preschool at EBI, I can tell you that we are very pleased with the well-rounded education our kids are receiving at EBI.   Our children came to the school already fluent in Spanish, and my concern was finding a school that would value and support a bilingual upbringing.  We are very pleased with the academic level of Spanish that my kids have maintained.  All the Spanish teachers are native speakers, which makes a big difference (and the kids are exposed to regional differences of the language given the diverse background of the staff.)   We feel surrounded by parents just like us: who strive to bring up bilingual "global" citizens, a characteristic of the IB (International Baccalaureate) curriculum. 

    We love the EBI community: it is welcoming, tight-knit and down-to-earth.

    Don't hesitate to connect with me should you want to discuss more or if have any questions.

    Good luck!

    --1307mom

    May 2, 2018

    Hi! My son will be starting at Colibri preschool in Piedmont this Fall. My daughter went there, too, when she was 2 (back then it was Kids Speaking Spanish, which is still active but in transition to a new location in Montclair). It is Spanish immersion, the teachers are warm and welcoming, the environment is vibrant, the teaching style is play-based, and I found the feedback from the teachers very thoughtful. My daughter is now at Escuela Bilingue Internacional and she loves it. The Spanish immersion piece is what originally put EBI on the map for us, but now that we are there, it is the teaching model (based off the IB program) and the community that really give the school a special touch. I would note that EBI starts at 3 (3 by September, I believe). Good luck!

    May 2, 2018

    Have you looked into EBI? (Escuela Bilingue Internacional).  My daughter attends there and we love it. It's a  https://www.ebinternacional.org/.   The school runs from Pre-K all the way through 8th grade. My daughter started this past fall in PK-1 and she is extremely comfortable speaking in either English or Spanish already.  She sang me the sweetest song all in Spanish just this morning!  We love the community of people, the value of play + education and the warmth and human centered feel from the staff and teachers. I can't recommend it more.

    May 3, 2018

    Hi, I suggest you visit Escuela Bilingue International (EBI).  My son is in preschool and my daughter is in first grade at EBI.  Both of my kids started in other bilingual schools or preschools and then we switched them to EBI and I am so so grateful for this school.  EBI has a program from preschool to 8th grade (older kids are on a separate campus). Even if you choose to only do preschool at EBI and even if a bilingual program was not your priority, I would still suggest visiting EBI.  The preschool program is wonderful.  The classrooms are beautiful and spacious and place children at the center.  My son who is very sensitive and prone to nightmares and night terrors, is so well taken care of at EBI.  The teachers are responsive to my concerns about him, they watch out for things that might trigger him (like loud noises) and are so supportive.  My son is also learning so much about the world around him, how to be independent, be a good friend, and take care of his surroundings.  Every day that he enters his classroom there are various projects and workspaces and play areas that are inviting and  fun.  As an educator I can also see how the activities are also helping him practice fine motor skills, role play, and play in a group.  My daughter is in first grade and did not attend the preschool at EBI.  Honestly, each day that I enter my son's preschool room, I see things that I wish she had been a part of.  And finally- the LOVE.  I can't imagine loving every single child in a classroom, but these teachers simply love my son.  My son tells me he loves each of his teachers which makes me so happy for him.  If you call the school (510) 653-3324 ext 104 you can speak with Liza or Gina to schedule a tour of the campus.  

    May 3, 2018

    We are at Kids Speaking Spanish and have had a great experience. I was skeptical at first (simply because language immersion wasn't our top priority, we are more concerned with academics) but it's a fabulous, caring place. So creative and the teachers are very invested in the children. Highly recommended. Our daughter started this fall in the 2s program and will be in 3s this fall. 

    May 3, 2018

    My kids went to Monte Tavor and then to EBI once they were 3 years old.  They are still there 8 years later.  The Spanish has been excellent and was the initial draw but I love the international baccalaureate curriculum structure and how its taught my kids to think, the community is warm, caring and progressive and the school is dedicated to values that are meaningful to my family.
     

    May 7, 2018

    Another vote for EBI.  My daughters are in 1st and 2nd grades.  They started in preschool there and we've been extremely happy with the quality of the program, the teachers, the community and the facilities.  They are fluent spanish speakers with perfect accents (I don't really speak spanish but native speakers compliment their accents).  The students are curious, global citizens.  

    May 9, 2018

  • Seeking Spanish Immersion Preschool in Berkeley

    –
    Dec 27, 2017

    Hi There,

    Does anyone have any suggestions for Spanish bilingual or immersion preschools in Berkeley other than Centro Vida? I'm looking for a preschool for 2.5 - 5 year olds. 

    Thanks so much!

    Caroline

    [Moderator Note] You can do a search for Spanish-speaking preschools in Berkeley on the "Search Daycares & Preschools" page here: https://www.berkeleyparentsnetwork.org/daycares-preschools (this is also a link in the main menu on the website)  There are 27 matches.

    Dec 27, 2017

    I cannot recommend Mi Mundo Preschool enough. It is a small Spanish, art focused preschool on Alcatraz. The teachers are kind and loving and teach the kids how to make incredible art projects. My daughter's transition to a Spanish Kindergarten was seamless and her teacher was impressed with how fluent she was (we don't speak Spanish at home). I will be very sad when my son leaves Mi Mundo at the end of this year. It is like family to us. 

    Dec 28, 2017

  • Seeking Spanish Immersion Daycare near Emeryville

    –
    Apr 17, 2017

    Hello fellow Parents! My family is on the hunt for a Spanish immersion daycare or preschool in Emeryville (or thereabouts). Our 21 month old son speaks Spanish with his dad, but primarily English with me and the rest of the world. We'd love to have him spend his days with other kids and teachers in an environment where Spanish comes first.

    I'd very much appreciate any leads. We're hoping to get him enrolled by June.

    Thanks in advance for the help!

    Kiri

    Apr 17, 2017

    Our daughter just turned 2 and goes to a Spanish immersion day care. Not sure how close to Emeryville you need - this is across the street from San Pablo Park in Berkeley, so near Ashby and San Pablo. We love the day care provider, Rosario Mariscal (goes by "Chayo"). She speaks only Spanish to the kids, even though some come from only English-speaking homes. I'm not sure if she will have an open spot in June, but if she does, your child would likely be the right age. Chayo speaks great English so either you or your husband can call - 510-529-5832. Good luck!

    Apr 19, 2017

Archived Q&A and Reviews

Questions

Spanish immersion alternative to KISS

April 2015

We were so sad to hear that KISS is out of space for the fall. Now we are looking for other Spanish Immersion pre-school options in Berkeley, Emeryville, or North Oakland. Any suggestions? Rachel

Hi Rachel,
Please check out my response to a recent post below for a Spanish Immersion Preschool. I highly recommend the Kidsland in Berkeley.

Our kids recently complete preschool at EBI (Escuela Bilingüe Internacional) in Oakland. Our kids thrived in this supportive, immersive and LOVING environment so we decided to stay for Kinder and beyond. I'd encourage you to consider reaching out to them to see if they have Fall openings. http://www.ebinternacional.org/admissions. Hope that helps! mama de dos

We have a child at Kidsland Addison and we love it! They are a daycare that has been caring for kids 3 months thru kindergarten that is just starting a separate program for the preschoolers (children 2+ years of age). The separate program just means the littles and the bigs are going to be separated into to two different rooms instead of all together, and then the preschool portion of the big kids program can be more structured. Our son thrived there as a little & has learned SO MUCH already I can't wait to see what more will come as the program gets even better!

The school is full spanish immersion, and tuition includes healthy meals and snacks. The care is very loving/nurturing.

Our son is 2.5 and has attended since he was 6 months old. So far he is fluent in spanish, knows how to say his ABC's and 123's, can count his numbers on his hands, can identify most any animal/car/truck/etc, and can draw circles and triangles. He's learned all sorts of life skills like saying please, thank you, and excuse me, waiting your turn, sitting quietly, asking for permission, getting himself dressed, picking up his toys, etc. Kidsland even helped potty train him!

Oh yes, and the older kids go on fun field trips 1-2 days a week to places like the library or the Tilden trains.

The program is run by Ana 510-861-7972. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Good luck in your search! kacey.tsb
 

  

Seeking Spanish Immersion Preschool

March 2015

We are seeking a spanish immersion preschool in Berkeley or the surrounding area. I know of EBI, Centro Vida, and KISS. Can anyone provide current reviews on these as most on BPN are older. Also, are there any others out there? Reviews on them (if any) would be great too!! kacey

Try any of the various Kidsland home-based daycare/preschool centers. They are all Spanish immersion, each run by members of a highly educated extended family. These are folks who attend lots of early childhood development courses, and really go the distance to help kids develop in all areas. They provide mostly organic food. Some of their listings are posted on this site, others you can find by calling Bananas. Former Kidsland Parent

My son goes to Mi Mundo Preschool on Alcatraz near Adeline on the Berkeley/Oakland border and we've been really happy there. Our son frequently asks to stay till 5 (when I could pick him up earlier!). Lots of super creative art projects, play-based with some structure (daily story time and songs, plus dance class weekly). Full immersion in Spanish- my son is speaking more Spanish than ever after being there. The teachers make a point to help the kids speak in Spanish to respond to them as well, which is what has made the difference for my son's speaking abilities I think. Sometimes he has to ask me what the English word is for something he learned at school! The director is highly organized and a great administrator. She has hired wonderful teachers for the two small classrooms. My son's teacher is especially warm and loving and friendly and we couldn't be happier with her. The outdoor area is not huge, but well-used space with a play area and a garden and a covered area with tables. They are outdoors a LOT. They eat outside and are outside to play for several hours each day.

These are minor things but illustrate how the staff cares: they put sunscreen on when they go outdoors for long periods, and always inform me of any tiny injury or little thing that happened to my son during the day. It's these little things that assure me the teachers care for my son well and make me happy to send him to school there. You can check out the website at mimundopreschool.com and get in touch with Lina, the director, to do a tour or come to an open house. Best wishes in your search! Happy Mi Mundo Family

My daughter goes to EBI since kindergarten now she is on 1st grade. She went to a different Spanish immersion in Berkeley And I can see big differences as far as well structured, school program, teachers coordination and the language applying with the whole personal. The multicultural mind and the diversity in the school still surprises me and I enjoy been part of my daughter school community. Good luck finding the right school for you! AF adyju

Yes, there are lots of Spanish Immersion preKs. I just went through the process of visiting schools for my 3 yr old and can share the info. I'm in the Oakland border so I didn't stick to just Berkeley. I researched:

  • AMA (Academia de Mi Abuela): In Montclair, play based, lots of outdoors time in a beautiful location and it's a mix of daycare with preK, so they're very flexible with age. The groups are smaller than in a school setting (10-12 kids at the most). More than just Spanish, they have a cultural immersion program with access to many international cultures: they play soccer, dance capoeira, celebrate St Patricks day and they were the ones with the most cultural mix of students (not just white kids wanting to learn Spanish, but Indian, middle Eastern and Latinos from many countries). They also help with potty training children.
  • Alameda Bilingual: Maybe too far from you, it was a home daycare/preK with medium structure, play based, nice meals, small groups and good outdoor area. I was very impressed with the level of ''work'' the children were doing, they kept a nice folder with all the art projects and they all spoke Spanish. My only con is they were all girls at hte time and the groups were very small (4-6 kids), which might be a pro for some.
  • Mi Mundo: Very conveniently located in Temescal, right by the Berkeley border. Groups are small, the outdoors space is very nice and so is the inside. They might be flexible regarding age minimum, but the child has to be potty trained. Also, in the tour, I had a chance to see the interaction with the teachers and they were all very nice. Not too much diversity in their students, most of them are non Spanish speakers and they were all speaking English.
  • TRIS (a Montessori immersion program with Spanish, French and English). Even though I didn't tour the school because of schedule challenges, I spoke with the recruiter at a school fair and the program looked solid, they take kids from a very young age (before three) but they are not cheap and might be too far from you (Dimond District). And personally, I'm not a big fan of Montessori.
  • EBI: You know about it, so the only thing I can tell you is the groups are larger and the environment is more of a school than a preK. They're strict on their age restriction and the play time is the shortest from all the other options. However, it has the advantage of consistency once the child continues her education.
  • Centro Vida: Among my favorite, their outdoors space was wonderful, the teachers were wonderful, excellent program, amazingly diverse body of teachers, organized but still play based. The bad thing is their waiting list. I'm still in it, but I don't think my child will get to the top before she goes to elementary school and I might not want to change schools if that were the case.
  • I didn't check on KISS (Kids into speaking Spanish) or LePort/Spanish in Emeryville, so you may want to. We didn't check on these because we made up our mind: we ended up going to Academia de Mi Abuela because they offered the diverse program we wanted for our child and the flexibility our family needed. Even though they were among the farthest, it's merely a 10 minute drive there, so it's working for us and she's very, very happy. Good luck. Spanish was a must

I highly recommend Mi Mundo Preschool on Alcatraz. It is mostly in Spanish, art centered, play based preschool with wonderful teachers. We switched our daughter from a so-so preschool and she is so happy there. Also, she is pretty fluent in Spanish! Mi Mundo Parent

I would like to very strongly recommend the Kidslands in Berkeley. We are very happy parents of a child at Kidslands Addison who has been there for almost 2 years. He is now 3 and loves going to school and interacting with the care providers. The quality of the care is unparalleled--nurturing, supportive, and very positive. They have recently started a new preschool program where the children older than 2 have structured activities and themes. There is a wonderful mixture of art, stories, dance, and time outside. Both the indoor and outdoor spaces are nice and we especially enjoy the lovely backyard where there is a tree house. One thing that we really appreciate about Kidsland is that there are regular outings to the library for Spanish-speaking story time and trips to local parks and natural areas (e.g. Aquatic Park, Crown Beach, Steam Trains at Tilden). Each day, the children eating nutritious yummy food (breakfast, lunch and 2 snacks). I'm not sure how Ana does it, but my son eats all of his veggies there, when it is struggle at home!

My son's Spanish is very strong and while we speak other languages at home, he says that Spanish is his favorite. We thank Ana for instilling in him an interest and appreciation for the Spanish-speaking culture.

When comparing the Kidsland program to other Spanish-immersion preschool programs, it is superior for so many reasons: generous hours (7:30 to 5:30), food (included), price (cheaper than all programs we looked at), vacation schedule (less time than all other programs we looked at but still reasonable for staff), activities (a good mixture of structured activities, play, and time outside).

For all of these reasons and the ''little things'' (my son has learned good manners like saying please, thank you, and reminding us to not talk and eat; the community of parents that is so wonderful; the parking is definitely manageable), we know that we have been extremely fortunate to have found Kidsland Addison.

There is currently at least one opening and there are likely openings for the late summer/Fall for children older than 2, and for especially those 3 or older. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Happy Kidsland Mama

Bilingual preschools in the San Leandro area

Dec 2014

We are raising my three year old daughter in a bilingual household but her Spanish
is really falling behind her English fluency.  She is in a non bilingual preschool a
few mornings a week but I would like to start searching for a quality bilingual
(Spanish) preschool program that is not too far from San Leandro (Oakland, Hayward,
Castro Valley).  Any suggestions?  
-striving for a bilingual child

If you are willing and able to do a co-op, check out Las Semillitas in
Alameda. We loved what we saw but were on the wait list for a long time and
ultimately had to make other arrangements, putting our son in a preschool
we love but that has very limited Spanish.  (We are a bilingual family too.
Our son, who previously always chose to speak Spanish, now always opts for
English.)
San Leandro mom

Our daughters attend The Renaissance International School in the Diamond
District of Oakland, 8 miles from our home in north San Leandro. They have
an amazing bilingual preschool - in either French and English or Spanish
and English - and then a trilingual elementary and junior high programs -
French, Spanish and English. It's truly an international program with
exposure to many cultures through music, art and other study. We have been
delighted to be a part of the community and my daughters' educational
experiences could not be better. I hope you check it out! Feel free to
contact me with any questions.
Madeleine B

Monte Tavor
3520 Laguna Avenue, Oakland, CA 94602
(510) 967-2876

Non-spanish speaking friends had their kids there and they learned to speak
Spanish - not just words - and continued with Spanish at Montclair
Elementary. Fluent in Spanish now.

Escuela Bilingue Internacional has a fabulous preschool in the Rockridge
area of Oakland. It's got it all - loving teachers from Latin America, a
beautiful old school building, fun, Spanish immersion, art, rich language
arts, and is part of an International Baccalaureate school that goes all
the way to eighth grade. Many families love it so much that they stay even
when kids get to kindergarten.

Hi,
I am also from San Leandro trying to raise my daughter to speak Spanish.  I
am also looking into schools and contemplating whether to have her go to a
local school or a bilingual one. Two preschools to consider are La
Semillitas in Alameda and La Plazita in Oakland. Bahia in Berkeley is a
well know program however it may be too far for you.

If you are looking for other opportunities for her to speak Spanish, the
San Leandro Main Library has an Early literacy storytime/Cuentos para la
alfabetizacion the second Saturday of the month at 10:30. There are also
two story times in Spanish on Tuesday and Thursday mornings (South Branch &
Main) in the event she does not have preschool on these days.

I take my daughter to a Spanish/English Play & Learn class in San Leandro
through the city. It meets twice a week in the late afternoon for an hour
and half.  You have to accompany your child. It can be challenging for sure
to raise a bilingual child. Playing with other children that speak Spanish
definitely helps. I like going to Halycon Park because there are at times a
lot of children who speak Spanish there.

Si Se Puede!
 

Looking for a 1/2 day Spanish Immersion Pre-school

Oct 2011

My daughter will turn three in Feb 2012. I would like to find a preschool program for her that is part-time, maybe three mornings a week - 9:00 - 12:00 PM. I would love to it to be Spanish Immersion. Oakland or Berkeley would work. Any suggestions? Thank you! Anon

Check out La Plazita in Oakland. I'm not sure they do 9-12; I think it's more like 9-3, but they might be flexible. http://www.laplazitapreschool.com Anon

Our 3 yr old has just finished the first week at the newly opened Berkeley location of Kids Into Speaking Spanish, and so far it is fantastic. The teachers are competent and caring and the school environment feels friendly and warm. The school seems to be off to a great start and I am excited for future plans like getting a community garden (kids, teachers, parents) started in the large backyard play area.

They are still enrolling and I see they've posted a notice below for an upcoming open house. Give it a look--we really feel like we've found the right place! New and happy Berkeley K.I.S.S. parent

Spanish language preschool recommendations

Oct 2011

Our family is looking for a good Western East Bay preschool environment to help our 3yo daughter get a good start on her Spanish. We're a bilingual household, but Daddy's Spanish is borderline nonexistent so the dominant language is still Ingles. Thanks! Language Lagging Papa

EBI! (Escuela Bilingue Internacional) It is a WONDERFUL school. Our 2 boys have been there from the age of three (they're in Kindergarten and 2 grade now). They are both fluent and can read & write in Spanish and English. I love everything about the school - the warm and huggy teachers, the thoughful education my boys are receiving, the fabulous head of the school, and the amazing parents & kids who make up the community. It is the best. We could not be happier. Una mama de dos muCJune 2008ecos

Our situation is almost identical to yours. My wife is fluent in Spanish, but I speak almost none. However, we both wanted a bilingual education for our 3 year old daughter. We ended up enrolling her at Escuela Bilingue Internacional (EBI), which is located on the Oakland/Berkeley border. We were very impressed by their teaching method, especially the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. While we did consider some other language schools, it seemed to us that EBI understood that while becoming bilingual is very important, it is still just one component of a complete education. Also, we found that a number of other children who attend come from households where Spanish is not the primary language spoken.

Although our daughter has only been there a short while, she is already starting to say some words in Spanish and sing some Spanish songs. We're very happy with our choice, and I would highly recommend EBI to others. Feel free to email me if you want any more information. Peter

Escuela Bilingue Internacional starts in preschool, and can stay just a preschool for your child, but also will go up to 8th grade. I'm looking forward to having fully biliterate kids who also will speak some conversational Mandarin, which is added four hours a week after third grade. - parent

Our 3 and 5 year old sons just started at Escuela Bilingue Internacional this year in Oakland, and we couldn't be happier to be there. The school and its staff are incredibly thoughtful and dedicated, providing a warm, welcoming, creative environment that our kids love! It's only been two months and already my boys, who previously had no Spanish, are absorbing the language. They are learning a tremendous amount and more importantly to us, having a lot of fun doing it. It's amazing to see their language skills blossom alongside their confidence. I highly recommend the school. Feel free to email me directly via moderator if you have more questions. We love EBI

Spanish immersion-type preschool programs

June 2008

After reading several posts about parents being on pre-school waiting lists for up to 3 years, I'm getting worried. I have an infant son and wonder when I should start looking for pre- schools. I'm interested in Spanish immersion-type programs, in particular, but am open to other good play-based schools in Oakland or nearby. I would like to get other perspectives, experiences, and suggestions. Do you love your pre-school? Tell me about that too. Thanks! new mommy

Centro Vida is a wonderful Spanish immersion preschool. However, I would get on their waiting list NOW. I put my son on the list as soon as he was born, and he didn't get in until part way through the first year! But he loved it, and spoke Spanish fluently while he was there. hablamos espanol

Hi-I highly recommend Viva El Espanol, Spanish Immersion school, based in Lafayette,but there are also campuses in Alameda,Pleasanton,just to name a few,also incorporated in the Public schools in parts of the Bay Area.Best of all,they always have openings, for infants to adults and are flexible. My children, who are 3 1/2 and 5 yrs old have been attending the Lafayette campus for 2 years and they love it!The staff is Great!The phone(925)962-9177 or check them out at www.LamorindaSpanish.com Denise

Spanish speaking preschool for 2-year-old

May 2008

Does anyone have a recommendation for a Spanish/ bilingual preschool or daycare for a 2 year old in September? I am looking in El Cerrito, Berkeley, Albany, Pinole and Oakland. I do like La Casita in Pinole, but she can't start until she is 2.5. 
I'm having a tough time locating one myself, so your recommendations are greatly appreciated! Shana

The best in Oakland/Berkeley area, on Alcatraz Ave. is EBI Escuela Bilingue Internacional, but........ I don't think they will accept a 2 year old. Is a good reference for next year 2009. Good Luck Susana

Of course for the best bilingual preschool, Centro Vida in Berkeley is the best but is hard to get into. You can try anyway though. My son went there. Another school that is in Berkeley is Mi Escuelita in Berkeley off Marin. My daughter went there and I know they accept young toddlers. Good Luck. Kristine

Have you heard of Viva el Espanol? We offer full-immersion Spanish classes for kids of all ages, and have multiple proficiency levels. We are a supplement to whatever pre-school or elementary school your child attends. We have locations in Alameda, Lafayette and Pleasanton. We also have some terrific summer programs. Please call 925-962-9177 for more information or visit our website at www.vivaelespanol.org. Margaret Grover-Roos

Spanish immersion preschool or Kindergarten

April 2008

We are looking for a Spanish immersion child care or kindergarten situation for our soon-to-be-five-year-old . We tried for Washington Elementary and have been wait-listed with not much hope of getting in next school year. Does anyone know of anything in Richmond, El Sobrante, Albany, El Cerrito (you get the picture); public or private; pre-school or Kindergarten that we could check out? thanks so much

Hi, You might want to check out www.contracostapreschools.com. They have tons of preschools listed on their site and I've seen some Spanish immersion programs as well. JJ

Spanish-Immersion Pre School

March 2008

I am looking for Spanish Immersion Pre Schools in the Bay Area. I already know about EBI and KISS. I would love to hear people's experiences with both of these schools. I would also LOVE to know about any other schools. Are there more I don't know about?? In the East Bay, SF, or even the Peninsula?? Really, anywhere...i'd like to research all of them and hear reviews. Thanks in advance. Isabella

My kids (ages 4.5 and 2 years) go to ''My Spanish Village'', a home-based total spanish immersion program in Walnut Creek. We LOVE the school, the teachers, the director/owner, the community. I think that they are working off a wait list right now, but I know that she is looking to grow the school. Call Ita Perez, cell 925-286-4382. She is amazing! I am happy to talk more about our experience. Mama feliz

Check out Monte Tavor off of MacArthur & Fruitvale in Oakland. Also Renaissance Montessori, I think in the Glenview area of Oakland. These two, EBI & KISS all have a very different feel to them in setting & style. Also, EBI & Renaissance go on to grade school, which is an important consideration if you want to continue with the Spanish immersion long-term and are willing to go the private school route. also looking

I would recommend you look into El Nuevo Mundo Children's Center in Richmond. They are the sister school of Centro Vida in Berkeley. Although the school is technically bi-lingual, almost everything happens in Spanish. My daugher went there for a year before starting kindergarten and was the only student from a non- Spanish speaking home. Almost all of the students and teachers are native Spanish speakers. She learned a ton of Spanish and had several non-English speaking friends with whom she managed to comminicate quite well. She also had a perfect accent as a result of being with so many native speakers.

In addition to the great language-learning aspect of the school, it is just a really great place on top of that. I would have liked so send her there even if I hadn't been intent on a Spanish speaking pre-school for her. The teachers are warm, friendly and well trained. The program has a good balance between structure and freedom of choice which prepares kids for kindergarten in an age appropriate and fun way.

They do fantastic productions for holidays and even feed your child! Not having to worry about breakfast or lunch was really a bonus for me. Their wonderful cook Maria Elena makes all sorts of yummy things everday and all of the kids eat together in a little cafeteria. They have a nice playground space outside. They also plan field trips from time to time that included a picnic at a park and a trip to the movies, if you can believe it.

The other good thing about this school is that it is relatively unknown outside of the immediate neighborhood so there is no crazy situation of needing to be on the waiting list before you child is even born.

Their phone number is (510)233-2329. Heather

Spanish Language Pre-school?

Feb. 2003

We have lost all hope of moving up the waiting list at Centro Vida and are desperately seeking a bilingual Spanish/English pre- school for our daughter (starting in January 2004). Does anyone know of anything that at least comes close? We're in Oakland but would even consider San Francisco. She is currently in bilingual child care and speaks both languages at home. Feels like we're going to have to make a choice between Spanish language development and early childhood education; hate to have think about it that way! Any advice and creative solutions welcome. julie

Hi, Right next door to Centro Vida is a small family daycare owned by Lupe. My daughter goes there and she took to it like a fish to water. All three teachers speak spanish and so do many of the children. My daughter, who is two, peppers her speech with Spanish and she is primarily an English speaker. Give them a call and ask them anything you want to know. Her number is 524- 5012. Good luck. Cherene

Have you tried calling Bananas for bilingual child care providers? (Their referral line is 510-658-0381)Many of their providers offer quality comparable to preschools. The advantages might be finding native speakers of the languages you use at home and smaller group sizes. The smaller group size is especially beneficial for children under 3 years old. Pat

Pre-school Recommendations received: