Montessori Preschool in Rancho Bernardo (4SRanch), San Diego | Little Acorn

Little Acorn is a loving Montessori Preschool serving Toddlers through TK in Rancho Bernardo near 4S Ranch, San Diego. Children learn through hands-on Montessori work, movement, and plenty of outdoor play in a warm, friendly community.

A day at Little Acorn Montessori Preschool in Rancho Bernardo is filled with movement, imagination, laughter, learning, and love. Each part of the day is thoughtfully designed to support the whole child—body, mind, and heart—so children feel calm, confident, and joyful as they learn.

Movement That Prepares the Mind and Calms the Body

Our day often begins with an active, joyful circle time. Children move their bodies through songs, gestures, rhythm, and playful movement. This movement is purposeful—it helps children release energy, regulate their bodies, and prepare their minds for learning.

Through movement, children naturally become more focused, attentive, and calm. They are then ready to engage deeply in their Montessori work and play.

Stories, Puppet Shows, and Language Building

Language comes alive through puppet shows and felt board stories. These gentle, imaginative stories support:

  • Language development
  • Pre-reading skills
  • Listening and attention
  • Memory and sequencing

Because stories are repeated and joyful, children naturally memorize language patterns, vocabulary, and story structure—without pressure, just through fun, laughter, smiles, and connection.

Personalized Montessori Lessons

Each child is met exactly where they are. Individualized Montessori lessons are presented one-on-one or in small groups, based on each child’s interests and readiness.

Children work with hands-on materials that build:

  • Early reading and writing skills
  • Math understanding
  • Concentration and independence
  • Confidence and pride in learning

Learning feels meaningful and exciting because it is personalized and respectful of each child’s pace.

Art, Creativity, and Self-Expression

Art is a natural and joyful part of the day. Children enjoy:

  • Free art whenever inspiration strikes
  • Group art projects that build cooperation
  • Painting, drawing, clay, and creative materials

Art supports fine motor skills, imagination, emotional expression, and confidence—allowing children to share who they are in their own unique way.

Spanish Circle Time Through Song and Movement

Spanish is woven into the day through a lively Spanish circle time filled with songs, rhythm, movement, and seasonal dances. Children move their bodies as they learn new words and phrases, helping language settle deeply and naturally.

Songs, gestures, and repetition make learning Spanish fun, joyful, and accessible for all children.

Learning Through Songs, Rhythm, and Play

Throughout the day, curriculum comes alive through songs, movement, rhythm, and cooperative play. Children count, spell, and explore concepts using their whole bodies—making learning memorable and engaging.

Movement and music help children stay joyful, regulated, and deeply connected to what they are learning.

A Loving Mixed-Age Community

Little Acorn is a mixed-age Montessori environment, where children learn from one another every day. Older children naturally step into leadership roles, building confidence, responsibility, and pride. Younger children feel inspired and supported as they learn by watching and working alongside older friends.

This mixed-age community fosters:

  • Independence and leadership
  • Confidence and mentorship
  • Belonging and friendship
  • A deep love of learning

Children are always excited to learn from one another, and friendships grow naturally in this caring, inclusive environment.

A Place Where Children Love to Learn

At Little Acorn Montessori Preschool, every day is filled with connection, curiosity, and joy. Through movement, stories, individualized learning, creativity, and loving relationships, children develop the skills they need—not just for school, but for life.

Families in Rancho Bernardo, 4S Ranch, and San Diego choose Little Acorn because we offer:

  • Movement-based learning that supports focus and calm
  • Personalized Montessori lessons
  • Language development through stories and song
  • Spanish learning through rhythm and joy
  • A loving mixed-age community rooted in kindness

Learn more about our Preschool Program or schedule a tour to experience a day at Little Acorn in person.