Where Children Learn Through Play—and Families Grow Together.
Play
Community
Since 1947
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"Laurel Hill Nursery School has been been the best decision we have made as parents." - Joshua Reiman
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"My child loves spending their days exploring, creating, and learning through play." - Julie Collins
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"It feels like a home and a place kids can experience wonder and excitement and enthusiasm for their discoveries." - Christine Cantwell
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"Our whole family has gained so much from being at Laurel Hill." - Sahara O'Hanlon
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"A warm, caring, stimulating environment in which expert early childhood educators work side-by-side with a great community of parents." - Daniel Stokes
〰️ "Laurel Hill Nursery School has been been the best decision we have made as parents." - Joshua Reiman 〰️ "My child loves spending their days exploring, creating, and learning through play." - Julie Collins 〰️ "It feels like a home and a place kids can experience wonder and excitement and enthusiasm for their discoveries." - Christine Cantwell 〰️ "Our whole family has gained so much from being at Laurel Hill." - Sahara O'Hanlon 〰️ "A warm, caring, stimulating environment in which expert early childhood educators work side-by-side with a great community of parents." - Daniel Stokes
JOIN OUR WAITING LIST!
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A Day at Laurel Hill
At Laurel Hill, children ages 2.9 to 5 learn through play, exploration, and choice—at their own pace and in their own way. Our child-centered approach allows children to move freely between classrooms and outdoor spaces, participating in activities that spark curiosity and build confidence, rain or shine.
We offer flexible program options:
Half Day (Morning or Afternoon)
Full Day
Extended Care (Before, Lunch, and After School)
Our low 5:1 child-to-adult ratio ensures individual attention and a warm, responsive environment.
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Kindergarten-Ready, the Laurel Hill Way
Our Pre-K program is designed for children heading to kindergarten the following year, offering a rich blend of play, project-based learning, and skill-building in a warm, supportive environment. With a 1:5 adult-to-child ratio, kids receive personalized guidance as they engage in longer-term activities that foster independence, physical development, and kindergarten readiness.
Housed in a dedicated Pre-K classroom, the program runs five days a week with flexible scheduling options:
Morning Session: 9:00AM – 12:30PM
Full Day (Pre-K + Afternoon Preschool): 9:00AM – 3:50PM
Extended Care available before and after school
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Summer at Laurel Hill
Summer Camp is a wonderful way for current and incoming families to stay connected, explore, and play. Designed for children ages 2.9 to 5, our 6–8 week program offers a gentle introduction for new students and a joyful continuation for returning ones. With smaller group sizes, warm teachers, and plenty of outdoor fun, it’s the perfect way to ease into the Laurel Hill experience.
The Power of Play
At Laurel Hill, play is at the heart of how children grow and learn. Through play, children develop essential social-emotional skills like sharing, listening, taking turns, and expressing big feelings. These early relationships and experiences build empathy, resilience, and confidence—qualities just as important as learning to read or write.
But the benefits of play don’t stop there. Research shows that play also strengthens critical thinking skills like creativity, focus, and problem-solving. When children imagine, experiment, and make choices during play, they’re learning how to think for themselves and work with others. They're building the flexibility and curiosity they’ll need for life.
Growing Together
You don’t just drop your child off—you step into their world. As part of our cooperative model, parents join the classroom one day a week, witnessing their child’s growth firsthand, building friendships, and learning alongside experienced educators. It’s a rare and meaningful window into your child’s early years—and a powerful opportunity to grow as a parent.
Family involvement is at the heart of everything we do. From classroom workdays and parent education nights to committee roles and community gatherings, every parent plays a part. In return, you gain hands-on experience, practical tools, and deep connections that extend far beyond preschool. It’s more than volunteering—it’s shared joy, personal growth, and lasting community.
The Original SF Co-op
Founded in 1947 on the progressive idea that parents and educators should grow alongside children, Laurel Hill has always been more than a school—it’s a community.
Nearly 80 years later, that vision feels more vital than ever. In a world that moves fast, we offer something rare: time to slow down, connect, and truly be part of your child’s early learning journey.
Here, play is purposeful, curiosity is celebrated, and every family has a place.
Our Staff
Laurel Hill Staff bring learning to life through play — building strong, trusting relationships with children and families.
Playful
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Nurturing
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Empowering
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Playful · Nurturing · Empowering ·
Inclusive
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Community-powered
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Welcoming
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Inclusive · Community-powered · Welcoming ·
Our Stories
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A Day at Laurel Hill
Inside San Francisco’s Hillside Co-Op Preschool
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Hot Glue, Hammers & Horseplay
Why Laurel Hill Nursery School teach children to navigate risk, not avoid it
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Parent Participation, The Laurel Hill Way
What it feels like to learn, play, and grow alongside your child in a cooperative school.
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The Traditions That Hold Us at Laurel Hill
How nearly 80 years of seasonal rituals and community gatherings shape early childhood at Laurel Hill Preschool
