First Presbyterian Early Childhood Center

Overview

First Presbyterian Early Childhood Center provides licensed early care and education for young children on the First Presbyterian Church campus in Santa Barbara. The center serves children from about three months up to six years and accepts families regardless of religion or background. Monthly tours and a waitlist are available for families seeking enrollment.

Approach and curriculum

The center emphasizes continuity of care, small group sizes and a primary caregiver model for infants and toddlers. The preschool program is play-based and uses outdoor learning as a central setting. Educational approaches and frameworks referenced include the California Teaching Pyramid, PITC, the Outdoor Classroom model, and the California Foundations and Early Learning Framework.

Facilities and family supports

Multiple classrooms and outdoor yards, including yards designed for very young children and a large outdoor classroom for preschool activities.
Continuity of care practices and low child-to-staff ratios in infant and toddler rooms.
Limited part-time openings and a drop-in infant care option are mentioned as available at times.
Scholarships are offered based on need and fund availability, with applications considered annually.

Boring Links

Interesting Links

First Presbyterian Early Childhood Center

About

Overview

Approach and curriculum

Facilities and family supports

Programs

The Infant/Toddler Program

The Preschool Program

More childcare in Santa Barbara

Hours

Licensing