We had both our daughters at FUMC, and the impact has been incredible. Our oldest daughter got into an incredible West LA kindergarten program--we credit much of that to the foundation she built here. Even more meaningful is the community. Warm, supportive, and truly special--our families formed lifelong friendships. If you're considering preschools in the area, FUMC should be at the top of your list. read more

My child has been at FUMC since he was 2, and will be leaving for the public school district this fall. We have had the most wonderful experience possible with this delightful preschool. The teachers are warm and deeply experienced; the admin team is professional and empathetic; and the physical spaces are clean, calm and welcoming. The outside play areas are well-curated, very spacious, and carefully monitored. There are before-and after-school options that are helpful for working families. Best of all is the program itself, the curriculum and activities that fill the day. The students are lead through a thoughtful and professionally-designed curriculum that includes lots of play, but also a strong emphasis on early learning skills, especially literacy. The children go to PE, art, music and chapel weekly, exposing them to a very well-rounded program that has something for everyone (including bugs!) We love that our kid comes home every day with little shoes full of play sand and a big adventure to share--a Dragon for Chinese New Year; a tea party for royalty; a field trip to the post office. Parents are included in every activity and are brought into the community often. We will miss our little second home when we graduate! read more

Our daughter joined the FUMC family for her last year of preschool, and we wished we had known about this hidden treasure in Santa Monica earlier. Everything from the directors to the teachers to the fellow families have made this such an amazing experience. Couldn't recommend more highly! read more

Wonderful experience! Our family lives in Santa Monica a few blocks from the school and love the community feel. We started when our son was 2yrs old and this is our second year. We didn't know anyone before starting and the school administration and parents do such a great job setting up opportunities to get to know the other families. They're invested in your child's learning and growth. The curriculum is incredibly thoughtful and the spaces within the classroom were redesigned recently to allow for increased engagement. There's incredible communication between the administration, teachers and parents so you know what's going on with your child, their strengths and areas for growth. The school itself has a kitchen that produces meals for kids, (great for working parents who may not have time to make lunch daily) and two well sized age appropriate playgrounds. We couldn't be happier. read more

I love FUMC. My son is in his final year of preschool and I couldn't be happier with my son's teachers, the school itself, and the community as a whole. I initially avoided checking FUMC out because we are not a religious family, but after his last preschool closed and a friend recommended it, I did a tour, met with Dane and Johanna, and immediately knew it was the place for my son. FUMC has such good vibes and I am grateful to have closed out the preschool years here. 10/10 recommend! read more

We couldn't be happier with our experience at First United Methodist Preschool of Santa Monica. The teachers are incredibly caring, attentive, and genuinely invested in each child's growth. The environment feels warm, safe, and thoughtfully structured, and it's clear how much effort goes into creating a positive experience for both kids and families. Our daughter looks forward to going every day, which says everything. We've seen meaningful development not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well. We truly can't recommend this school enough. read more

We truly couldn't speak more highly of FUMC. Our son started at age two and is now four, and the growth we've seen in him; especially in his language, confidence, and overall development; has been remarkable. What makes this school so special is the people. Every teacher and staff member we've encountered is warm, attentive, and genuinely invested in the children. It really feels like a close-knit, supportive community. The classrooms are thoughtfully designed, the environment is consistently clean and welcoming, and the outdoor space is such a highlight; creative, engaging, and clearly a place the children love spending time in. The curriculum strikes a wonderful balance between structure and creativity, and it's clear a lot of thought goes into both daily activities and the broader programming. Even the ways parents are invited to participate feel meaningful and well-considered, rather than just "extra." We also really appreciate the small but impactful touches; like the varied, well-prepared lunches (Chef Sheldon does an amazing job!), and the overall ease the school creates for busy families (earlycare and aftercare programs and summer program are great and easy to access!). It's clear they've thought about the parent experience as much as the children's. It's been such a joy watching our son thrive here. We feel incredibly lucky to be part of this community and can't wait for our daughter to attend in August! read more

We have had two children go to FUMC - our first child was displaced due to his school being burned down in the Palisades Fires and they were able to accommodate him in a classroom - we have had such an incredible experience there we decided to send our youngest child there as well. The quality of the teachers, the intimacy of the school, and the amazing administration make this one of the best preschools I have ever seen. Our children have thrived there and I know it will impact them positively for the rest of their lives. Thank you FUMC! read more

My son is currently in his second year at this wonderful preschool, and I truly can't say enough good things about it. He started here during a season of big life changes at home, and this school became such a safe, steady, and loving space for him to land. Everyone--from the teachers and directors to the support staff and school chef--has played a part in making this school feel like a second home. It has become my son's safe space, where he feels secure, supported, and able to truly thrive. The curriculum is incredibly thoughtful and impressive, with so much variety in what the kids are learning every day. The art and music programs are also such a special part of the experience and have added so much joy and creativity to his education. My son comes home having learned something new every day--and most importantly, he has so much fun doing it. The school also does such a beautiful job creating community through parent-involved events and special activities. They are always so thoughtful, fun, and memorable. We will be so sad to leave when my son starts elementary school. If I could keep him here forever, I would. We are beyond grateful for the love, care, and foundation this school has given our family. read more

Our daughter has been at FUMC since she was 2 years old and it has been a truly wonderful experience. Her teachers have been expert and kind, responding to each child's unique needs and personality naturally. The curriculum is thoughtful, meeting developmental needs, while feeling organic and playful. What may be additional at other programs - movement, art, music, nature - is offered free to all children. The administration and teachers are communicative, and we always feel like we know what our child is learning so we can mirror her experience at home. Our daughter has thrived at FUMC, and we have felt equally supported as parents. The school offers ample low pressure opportunities to build community. We have made wonderful friends and always know our daughter is safe and loved given the community FUMC has worked so hard to build. We highly recommend FUMC! read more

First UMC Preschool (FUMC) is truly a special preschool. It's an incredibly nurturing, supportive environment with fantastic directors, teachers, and strong values. It also has the BEST hours, an 11-month schedule, and they serve delicious lunch and snacks each day. You can't get a better setup for a working family. The yard alone sets it apart--easily the best in Los Angeles, and I've looked at just about every preschool. The enrichment is also outstanding. The community is wonderful--really engaged, down-to-earth families that we feel lucky to be a part of. Most importantly, our child is happy, safe, and excited to go every day! read more

We are just finishing up our 3rd year at FUMC, and what a wonderful influence it's been to our children as they go through these very formative years. My oldest daughter still talks about her favorite teachers at FUMC and looks forward each day that she gets to come along for pickup for her younger sister. I especially love all of the family events that go on at the preschool. it truly feels like community and welcomes not just the enrolled children but the family as a whole. My 9 year old son still enjoys the season fairs they host, and walking through the hallways occasionally to checkout the incredible artwork on display. My 3 year old comes home every day from preschool at FUMC a bright light, embodying kindness, and the confidence that comes with knowing you're fortunate to be surrounded by dear friends. What a sweet place this is, and we are going to savor every last moment of our final year there next year. read more

We have had two children at FUMC and are extremely happy with the preschool. The teachers have been wonderfully engaged with our children and are genuinely interested in their physical, mental and emotional development. When the children leave the preschool they are confident, competent and independent actors. We have truly enjoyed our partnership with the preschool...wish we had more children to send to FUMC! read more

We love FUMC Preschool so much! This year, our son is in the TK classroom and we are so glad he stayed on for TK instead of moving on to a bigger school. The teachers are incredibly passionate about everything they are teaching and our son loves going to school each day. I also really enjoy that we are invited to hang out in the morning and explore the classroom with them during the drop off window because it gives us a sense of what it feels like for them during the day. They also have amazing enrichment classes like art, sports, music, and Mr. Adam "The Bug Guy" that are at no extra cost to us, but so cool for the kids. The other best part is that the community of parents is outstanding and we have met some of our best friends here. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a TK program in Santa Monica. read more

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This is an amazing preschool that my child has attended and my other will be joining in the fall. You have incredible staff that is nurturing that will allow children to grow and excel like no other. In addition, the space overall is gigantic. The playground alone is bigger than most other preschools. Also - the lunch is set - so there is one less thing to worry about. Highly recommend! read more

After several bad experiences, we couldn't be happier at FUMC. Our 4yo is enrolled and we will enroll our 2yo this year as well. The staff, teachers, and community are all fantastic. read more

We love First UMC Preschool! My daughter has learned so much during her time here. Her teachers go out of their way to plan special lessons and field trips and I'm constantly impressed by the enrichment that is offered both inside and outside the classroom - art, physical education, science, music, etc. The school also does a really nice job building community among parents and families at the school, something I missed at our old preschool. It's a very special place. read more

If you are looking for a preschool with plenty of room for your child to explore both inside the classroom and out; to feel loved, supported, and understood; and with a wonderful parent, teacher, and administrative community, FUMC is the school for your family! Many teachers have been teaching at FUMC for decades, families send their children across generations, and families stay at the school through multiple children because of the exceptional environment that the school provides. Ms. Dee and Mr. Dane ensure that every parent and child is involved and supported and will take the time to truly understand your child(ren) and your family. My children loved the enormous outdoor spaces, the creative educational activities, and the many school celebrations throughout each of our four years as a family at the school. We fondly remember our days at FUMC and still enjoy the long-lasting friendships made. Do not hesitate to visit and tour this school, you will quickly discover the magic within its walls. read more

My son attended FUMC for three years and we highly recommend this preschool. At first, we were attracted to this preschool based it's location and huge yard. However, however attending this school what separates this school from others is its sense of community, amazing teachers and large outdoor space. Initially, I was wondering how this school would fit for a Jewish family but the school really emphasizes the values that we all share - kindness, respect and community. Several years ago, Dee became the director of the preschool and she brings many many years of experience with kids, teachers and parents :) I always felt that she had time to listen and was very open to communicating with parents. She also values the unique qualities each child brings to the classroom. The teachers are fantastic - creative, thoughtful and passionate! Your only tough decision will be to decide on the half or full day! You may choose this preschool as a lovely neighborhood preschool. But don't be deceived, this school is a gem where your child will have the opportunity to explore, grow and thrive. read more

FUMC is a true gem. The teachers are caring and dedicated, and there is very little turnover at all (which is extremely rare in early childhood education). We spent two wonderful years there and miss it dearly. The teachers felt like family and the space felt like home. The playground is big and fun, and all food is provided. Our child never had a bad day at FUMC. Another important note is that the school was responsive and responsible about COVID. When other schools took the chance to cut back on services for working families, FUMC stepped up and delivered what children need - a safe, nurturing space all day long so that parents can work and support their families. They were a harbor in the storm, and we are forever grateful. read more

Both our children went through FUMC. One is now in Kindergarten. The youngest still attends the school. We could not be happier with the quality of the education they have received as well as with the educators and staff running the school. Is it 100% perfect? Definitely not (and if you find such pre-school, please let me know). That said, we wouldn't do it any other way. Our oldest went through their pre-K program. We believe this put her in the best disposition to tackle Kindergrarten where she is thriving now. They made learning fun and she has kept this attitude toward reading, writing, counting, working in teams, etc. until now. Our children both are/were enamored with their teachers. They're always excited to go to school and we definitely feel that they are loved and cared for. The teachers are top notch in my view. The school is well-run. The classrooms we have been in and the equipment are generally and/or well maintained. Lastly, it's a great community. We've made many friends there (as have our kids) and we are happy to having been part of this journey with them. Would definitely recommend. read more

FUMP Santa Monica is simply a wonderful preschool. My wife and I toured ALL of the best in Santa Monica and Pacific Palisades and we were (our son was) accepted into a number of the best and we picked FUMP. The school is low-key on the religion stuff which is a plus for us. They are SUPER inclusive with their events. They make parent participation mandatory which I think is good. The staff and parents are very down to Earth which is refreshing on the Westside. I know of other competing schools where our friends don't feel this way about the other parents. Academically, they look at things the way my wife and I do. Its not some Hippie program with art and music only (note: I have a degree in music but...) they work on letters, numbers, reading but still have lots of fun in class. For those looking to get into one of the VERY COMPETITIVE K-8 schools - we know of many who went to FUMP and had their pick of the litter yet the school keeps that topic on the DL which is the right way to handle it. Yet another plus is that unlike MANY of the preschools on the Westside that we liked - FUMP is super accommodating to working parents and is beyond fairly priced. We couldn't recommend this preschool more enthusiastically. If you can get in - send your kid there. You won't regret it. Note: its good to sign up EARLY if you think you might want to go to FUMP. read more

My son attends FUMC, I toured over 10 preschools in Santa Monica that would accept a two year old and I couldn't find any preschool that has absolutely everything like FUMC: 1-the beautiful big yard, plus the possibility of 2-half or full day program, plus the 3-nutritious snacks and LUNCH that they provide (my son only eats lunch if everyone next to him is eating the same food, one less thing to worry about), 4-the beautiful community of director, teachers and parents, 5-also the children have the possibility of many extra one hour programs like yoga, dance, woodworking, gymnastics, music and even Mandarin! The Christmas concert, fall fair, the spring fair,it's truly special! Also it's one of the best tuitions for a full day program in Santa Monica. If you are looking for a preschool in Santa Monica don't think twice! Best deal, wonderful place! read more

Our son enrolled at four years old, half way through the school year. He was welcomed with open arms, loved by his teachers, and made friends right away. His teachers were kind, patient, and even made a nickname for him! He felt right at home. He is in Kinder now, and was absolutely prepared! Currently, our daughter is in the 2 year old program. She is a bit shy and reserved, yet at school she's found her "besties" - she considers all her friends and teachers to be best friends. She loves the songs, art, lessons, and time with her friends. We couldn't be happier here! read more

Very good preschool, with lots of events, great teachers and staff! My daughter loves it there and has made nice friends. The parents are involved and help this place thrive. read more

This school is excellent!! Not only that it is great to my son but also gave me tons of opportunities to be involved - that's exactly what I wished for :-) My family is proud to be a part of FUMC Preschool!!! read more