The Oaks Parent-Child Workshop

★★★★★Ian Gamblin

Our family feels incredibly lucky to have found this special school. Through The Oaks’ play-based approach, our son has learned so much about himself and how to move through the world with confidence and curiosity. As the oldest parent-child workshop on the West Coast, its roots run deep. I’m reminded of this when I wear my Oaks hat around town, I’m almost always stopped by someone who attended years or sometimes decades ago, smiling as they share their memories. It’s a truly magical place that has been supporting Santa Barbara families since 1947.

★★★★★Josh Lee

It was love at first sight for us! We enjoy our weekly meetings and the community atmosphere on work days. Established in 1947, The Oaks is the oldest parent-child workshop on the west coast. I was impressed to learn the original members actually built the building that’s still in use today! Two founders were architects, so the rest is history. Your kid will thrive, learn through play, and your family will make connections through the community atmosphere. Just bring your kid, and go for a tour to experience the vibe for yourself!

★★★★★DonoGnar

Choosing The Oaks for our children has been one of the best decisions our family has made. It’s a warm, intentional community where children are encouraged to explore, create, and learn at their own pace through play. Tons of space to move, imagine, and engage with the world in a joyful, hands-on way. What really sets The Oaks apart is the cooperative model. Being in the classroom alongside your child gives you a deeper appreciation for how they learn and grow, and the teachers are thoughtful, experienced, and genuinely invested in each child. The Oaks isn’t just a preschool—it’s a village. The relationships formed here, between both kids and parents, are meaningful and lasting. It’s no surprise that generations of Santa Barbara families speak so fondly of their time at The Oaks. We feel incredibly grateful to be part of such a rich tradition and supportive community.

★★★★★Dan

We are so grateful we chose The Oaks for preschool a few months after moving to Santa Barbara. Our daughter started as a 2.5 year old and has thrived within their play-based learning environment. The school has a special way of fostering creativity, curiosity, and social-emotional development, and I'm always astounded at the scope of materials and activities provided every week. As a parent, you will look back on your time at The Oaks as some of the most special time you were able to spend with your child(ren). Not to mention the lifelong friends you will meet along the way. The Oaks community has quickly made Santa Barbara feel like home, and I look forwarded to attending with my son when he's of age.

★★★★★Erik Stromlund

Hands down the best preschool in Santa Barbara. The Oaks is such a wonderful community of parents, children, and teachers who work together in a co-op environment to let parents be their child's first teacher. The nature-based, play-based curriculum invites children to follow their curiosity. The beautiful outdoor classroom provides ample space for movement, discovery, and joyful play. Mixed-age learning lets kids learn from and with one another, and the teachers genuinely care. The co-op model isn't for everyone. It asks for your time and participation. But what you get back is irreplaceable: real friendships, a deeper understanding of your child's development, and a village that extends well beyond the school years. Many Oaks families stay connected long after their kids move on. And because families contribute their time, tuition is about a quarter of what you'd pay at other preschools. Generations of Santa Barbara families have come through The Oaks since 1947, many of whom have gone on to become community leaders, educators, and professionals who still speak fondly of their time here. This year, The Oaks was recognized with the Santa Barbara Independent's Best of 2025 award for Best Daycare Facility. If you're looking for a preschool where you're an active part of your child's early education, not just dropping them off, The Oaks is worth exploring.