Welcome to The First School

Welcome to The First School, a private preschool in Santa Monica, California. We are a relationship-based, developmental preschool, offering toddler groups, preschool and pre-k / transitional kindergarten programs for children 12 months to five years. The First School celebrates individuality and diversity and serves all types of families across Santa Monica and West Los Angeles.

Established in 1975, The First School mission remains fundamental to the school today: To cultivate each facet of the whole-child – social, emotional, physical, intellectual – allowing each child to reach their highest potential on their own timeline, according to their unique strengths, challenges and interests; to inspire children to learn through play and meaningful activities guided by our passionate and creative staff; And to nurture a respectful, fun, warm environment for children, their families and teachers.

Our daily goal is to make every child feel safe, inspired, and loved. As a result, children leave The First School with a passion for learning, expanded creativity, meaningful exposure to a broad range of interests, the tools to make satisfying social connections, and the emotional resilience to welcome change and transition.

We cherish this magical time in the lives of children and their families. In our warm, relaxed and supportive atmosphere, families, as well as children, thrive. One of the things we find most gratifying is to hear about the many circles of connections that last long after the children have graduated; Alumni children and parents often return to visit and report that they have kept their First School friends, and First School memories, for life. We look forward to welcoming you and your child as a part of our family!