Our preschool programs provide a joyful, engaging environment where children ages 3-5 begin to develop the skills they need for kindergarten — and for life. Through a balance of play, exploration, and intentional learning, children build strong foundations in literacy, math, and social-emotional development.
Free and low-cost options are available for qualifying families, with full-day, full-year programs offered at centers across the San Gabriel Valley and support for families through our home-based program.
The preschool years are remarkable. Children arrive curious about everything — and our programs are designed to honor and deepen that curiosity. Every day is thoughtfully shaped to balance structure and discovery, so children feel supported, engaged, and genuinely excited to learn.
Our programs help children build the confidence, skills, and love of learning that will carry them into kindergarten and far beyond. Not because we rush them toward the next stage — but because we give them the time, relationships, and experiences to truly flourish at this one.
We know every family’s needs are unique. That’s why Options for Learning offers preschool programs in nurturing, engaging environments with a quality curriculum and caring educators. Many families may qualify for no-cost services.
At Options for Learning, preschool is about more than just what happens in the classroom. Our programs support children ages 3-5 with nurturing learning experiences, family resources, health and wellness support, and opportunities that help children and families thrive.
Options for Learning proudly serves children of all abilities in our preschool programs. Our Inclusion Department partners closely with families, school districts, and program staff to ensure children with special needs receive the individualized support they need to thrive alongside their peers in a safe, nurturing classroom.
Our programs are primarily funded by federal, state, and local contracts — which means most qualifying families pay little to nothing. Eligibility is based on factors like income, employment status, child's age, and family circumstances. Here's a quick guide:
Our preschool programs serve children ages 3–5. Some locations serve children who have turned 5 and are not yet in kindergarten, and some can accept 2-year-olds.
Program eligibility is based on various factors, such as income, family circumstances, and need for care. Most families in our service area qualify for free or reduced-cost enrollment.
Children with IEPs or other special needs are welcomed and supported in our inclusive classrooms. Some families may qualify regardless of income.
Children under 3 are best served by our infant and toddler programs. Our enrollment team will help you find the right fit and plan the transition to preschool when the time comes.
Full-pay spaces are limited and vary by location. If no space is currently available, our Resource and Referral team can connect you with other licensed preschool options in your area.
Our preschool centers serve communities across the San Gabriel Valley, Whittier, Pomona Valley, and Northeast Los Angeles. If you're outside our service area, we'll provide a referral to another qualified provider.
Parent, Los Altos site, South Whittier
Parent, Eagle Rock site
From your first call to your child's first day, our team walks you through every step. Here's how the process works:
Call or apply online. A knowledgeable education advisor will learn about your child's age, your family's needs, and guide you to the program that is the best fit.
Your education advisor will explain which programs you qualify for and what documentation is needed. Eligibility can only be confirmed once paperwork is received and reviewed.
Once approved, an enrollment specialist finalizes your child's placement. You'll receive everything you need to prepare for a confident, exciting first day.
For more than 45 years, Options for Learning has been a trusted early education partner for families across the San Gabriel Valley, Whittier, Pomona Valley, and Northeast Los Angeles. Here's what sets our preschool programs apart:
Our educators hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. Your child is always learning from qualified, caring professionals.
We don't stop at the classroom door. Wraparound support services, family engagement, and community connections come standard with every program.
Serving families in Alhambra, Altadena, Arcadia; Azusa, Claremont; Covina, Diamond Bar, Duarte, Eagle Rock, East La Puente/San Jose Hills, Glendora, Highland Park, Irwindale, La Puente, La Verne, Monrovia, Monterey Park, Pasadena, Pomona, Rowland Heights, San Dimas, San Gabriel, San Marino, Santa Fe Springs, Sierra Madre, South El Monte, South Pasadena, South Whittier, Temple City, Walnut, West Covina, Whittier.
Eligibility is based on a variety of factors, which may include income, family size, employment or training status, and individual family circumstances. Some families may qualify for additional support based on specific needs. Depending on the program, services may be available at no cost or based on a sliding-scale fee and include health screenings, nutrition support, and family resources.
Limited full-pay spaces are available at select centers for families who may not qualify for subsidized services and are interested in a fee-based option. Contact our team to learn about current availability at a location near you.
Options for Learning operates preschool centers in communities throughout the San Gabriel Valley, Whittier, Pomona Valley, and Northeast Los Angeles. We serve families in Alhambra, Altadena, Arcadia; Azusa, Claremont; Covina, Diamond Bar, Duarte, Eagle Rock, East La Puente/San Jose Hills, Glendora, Highland Park, Irwindale, La Puente, La Verne, Monrovia, Monterey Park, Pasadena, Pomona, Rowland Heights, San Dimas, San Gabriel, San Marino, Santa Fe Springs, Sierra Madre, South El Monte, South Pasadena, South Whittier, Temple City, Walnut, West Covina, Whittier.
Here are the questions we hear most from families exploring our preschool programs.
Most of our programs serve ages 3–5. Some locations also serve children who have turned 5 and are not yet in kindergarten, and others accommodate 2-year-olds. If you're unsure whether your child's age is a fit, call us at 626-699-8070, and we'll help you decide.
Many families qualify for no- or very low-cost enrollment. We also offer a limited number of fee-based spaces. There's no cost to apply — our team will help you find the right program.
Yes. Options for Learning proudly serves children with special needs in our preschool programs. Our Inclusion Department coordinates with families and school districts to support children with IEPs or other special needs, ensuring they receive the individualized attention they need to thrive alongside their peers.
Our preschool programs use a proven, developmentally appropriate curriculum focused on social-emotional development, language and literacy, early math and science concepts, physical development, and creative expression — all delivered through play-based learning, small-group activities, and individualized attention.
We serve families across the San Gabriel Valley, Whittier, Pomona Valley, and Northeast Los Angeles, including Alhambra, Azusa, Covina, Diamond Bar, Glendora, Monrovia, Pasadena, Pomona, Rowland Heights, San Gabriel, South El Monte, Temple City, Walnut, West Covina, Whittier, and many more communities. Use our location finder to find a center near you.
Yes! Options for Learning supports TK-age children through our preschool programs, allowing many children to continue learning in a familiar environment with trusted teachers while receiving age-appropriate instruction. Our enrollment team can help you explore the best next step for your child.
Options for Learning is a nonprofit organization. Every dollar donated supports high-quality early education, family resources, and community services for thousands of children and families across the San Gabriel Valley who need it most. Whether you give your time, your voice, or a financial contribution, you're helping build brighter futures for the children who need it most.