Our Philosophy
Why do Santa Barbara families choose Little Angels?
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Experienced teachers: Most of our staff have 10–20+ years of experience in early childhood education
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Low turnover: Our team stability is rare in the industry and means consistent, trusting relationships for children
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1:6 teacher-to-student ratio: Every child receives personalized attention and care
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Flexible scheduling: Options of 2, 3, or 5 days per week, hours from 7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and optional summer session
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Nature-connected learning: Daily outdoor play, garden projects, and field trips to the Trinity Gardens next door
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Inclusive community: A Christian school warmly open to families of all backgrounds and beliefs
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Nominated 2025 Best Of Santa Barbara by the Santa Barbara Independent
Our mission is to educate the whole child in a safe, inclusive, and loving environment. Guided by Christian values and a deep respect for nature, we partner with families to build a foundation of joyful play and strong community, empowering children to become successful, kind human beings.
In our classes, experienced teachers create engaging, age-appropriate learning opportunities for students in preparation for everyday life and Kindergarten. Through various hands-on experiences and lots of play, children develop socially, emotionally, cognitively, physically, and creatively. We also help children appreciate the beauty in nature and encourage respect for our planet through garden projects, lots of outdoor play, and field trips to the community garden next door. Through simple meal-time prayers, songs, books, and a monthly Bible Time focused on positive messages, students develop in the spiritual domain, as well.
Our teachers create an atmosphere of love and acceptance and guide children’s behavior through constructive and preventative methods, such as clear expectations, strong routines, and cooperative conflict resolution. Our strong classroom culture sets the foundation for children to thrive and become successful, kind human beings. Our teachers also maintain regular communication with parents and guardians because we see them as essential partners in education.
Values
Testimonials
Jenny D
We have been at Little Angels for six years and cannot say enough good things about it! The teachers are loving and caring, and provide an excellent balance of learning with a fun, positive, playful curriculum. The classrooms are clean and bright with many areas for curious children to explore. The yards are well-maintained and safe, with gardens, age-appropriate play structures, shady trees, and even a babbling brook! My children loved each of the classrooms and were prepared and excited for Kindergarten. Thank you, LAPS for building a lasting foundation and love of learning.
Ashley C
My husband and I frequently talk about how sending our son to Little Angels is one of the best decisions we've made in the past five years. Our son has blossomed under the support and care of very experienced and nurturing teachers. Our son started Little Angels as an incredibly shy and anxious toddler and is now heading off to kindergarten as a confident, joyful, and academically prepared five-year-old. Social and academic skills are developed through a thoughtful curriculum that perfectly balances structure and play. We love the low teacher-student ratio in each class and appreciate that all teachers, including the director, take time to get to know each child. The facilities, especially the outdoor play areas, are spacious and beautiful. This school also attracts warm and caring families, and both my son and I have made great friendships over the years. Little Angels is a unique gem!
Jill M
My oldest daughter attended LAPS for three years before starting Kindergarten. She is currently in first grade. We just started our two year old in the Ladybug class. As a local Kindergarten teacher I cannot boast enough about how well this preschool prepares their students for Kindergarten. I highly recommend Little Angels Preschool!