Gan Malibu Preschool has been an absolute gift for our family. Our daughter started at the infant center around 16 months old and is now 4.5 years old, still happily growing, learning, and thriving there. If they offered more years, we would stay forever! Sarah, the director, along with her incredible family and the entire team of teachers, has created a warm, nurturing, and very loving environment that we consider an extension of home. The care they provide is unmatched, my daughter is seen and supported. They also do so much baking and cooking I love it! All the arts and crafts and creative projects - wow ! The nature-based learning approach is magical. The children are always exploring, discovering, and learning in ways that honor their curiosity and connection to the world around them. Anaya has not only blossomed academically and emotionally but has also formed meaningful friendships that we know will last beyond preschool. Gan is more than a school, it's a community, a family. We are endlessly grateful to be part of it. read more

I could write a novel on my love for Gan Malibu. What a magical place for children to explore, play, and grow. The teachers are so kind and warm and there's something so special about this place. My son started at 3 and was previously struggling with drop off at his previous school. He'd just cry hysterically. At Gan Malibu, they encouraged us to do a slower drop off to ensure he was feeling okay and what do you know... drop offs only became easier and easier with time. He knew he was safe there and that his teachers cared for him. We had such a wonderful experience we opted to put our 1 year old daughter at the Gan too instead of keeping her at home with a nanny. We knew she'd thrive and flourish under their care and she did. I unfortunately lost our home in the Palisades Fire and there were only 2 things keeping me in Malibu: proximity to our family and access to the Gan. At one point right after we evacuated we were driving 3 hours round trip to keep the kids at the Gan. It's that special. We ultimately decided it was best for our family to move out of state but we had the hardest time parting with the Gan. Sarah is one of the most compassionate educators you'll find. Her leadership really sets the tone for the school and you can see how much all the teachers love the kids. The gan becomes a home away from home for the children. Teacher Lauren has the patience of a saint and really tries to understand toddlers even when they're being little maniacs. Teacher Jacqui is a baby whisperer and even though my daughter can take a minute to warm up to people, I knew she was obsessed with her from early on. Teacher Imelde is great too and is always so calm and positive. There is so much enrichment happening. They are intentionally recycle and upcycle everything, which I LOVE. They have yoga and gardening and cooking and even beach trips. They overlook the ocean and watch the dolphins play in the water. You won't find a better place for your kids. read more

Wonderful school, with ocean air and nature vibe. My daughter joined Gan Malibu when she was 14 months-old. The place is very homey and welcoming. The staff affectionate and patient. They offer the children many interesting activities, all utilizing natural materials, independent exploration and creativity. The children developed such loving connections amongst themselves and within a few days my daughter would just kiss me goodbye and confidently joined the Gan. I really had no issues getting her adjusted and when I picked her up, she would try to stay a few more minutes. The staff and admin are very supportive and accommodating. I really have only good things to say. read more

Gan is like a warm hug. It's a place that feels like your family is taking care of your baby. It's a wonderful school and an incredible community, one in which we've been so grateful to be a part of for 3 years. Our twin boys started here at Gan at 2 years old and just graduated at 5 years, now they're off to Kinder. Bittersweet! Sarah and Rabbi Levi are such warm and nurturing people (and parents!). We have enjoyed our time at Gan so much and are forever grateful for the wonderful experience our boys have had, and for the truly exceptional teachers who have cared for and taught them so much over these years. Once in the Gan fam, you're always in the Gan Fam, and its truly been our pleasure to call this community our home. We will be back with the baby! Thank you, Sarah and R Levi for all you do each and everyday, you and your school are a GIFT to this malibu community ! - the Jenner family read more

My son joined Gan at 2.5 years. The staff went above and beyond to support him in his first separation experience from his parents. Within a week he was running onto the playground! The location is stunning, the ocean views matched only by the kindness and warmth of the teachers and staff. My son has some special needs and the community was always collaborative and affirming and continued to go above and beyond to support him with inclusivity and sensitivity. The curriculum is child led, play based, and has strong social-emotional learning foundations. The activities are gentle and creative, with an emphasis on nature, ritual, and regulation-- love the yoga and music class! The staff take pictures throughout the child's day and the communication is excellent and immediate. I really have nothing but good things to say. read more

What can I say about this school???!!!! Both of my daughters went to Gan over the span of 6 years. This place was the most important element in their personal development, and I really owe this school for how they prepared my girls for elementary school and beyond. When my house burned down in the Malibu fires, Sarah and Micaela personally came down to visit us, and that was just amazing considering we had just started there at that time. During the covid lockdown, Micaela went out of her way to visit students by car as they weren't allowed in class during that time, but the school also went out of its way to try different things to get the kids back at school, and we were so grateful for it. My daughter's each have a close personal relationship with Micaela, and she will always be a part of their lives. I would highly recommend this pre-school, and feel free to reach out to me for any additional information. Sincerely, Eddie Makabi read more

I can not say enough good things about this school. I started my infant in the infant center and my then 1 year old took to the teachers and the environment instantly. They have an amazing app and are so good about sending updates on what is going on all day long with your baby. Eating sleeping pooping and in detail! Then when my son turned 2 we moved him to the older preschool section. The transition went smoothly and he was happy! Everybody who works there is professional, attentive and most importantly loving and sweet with the children. The space is beautiful with the most breath taking view of the ocean. Sarah, the director is so easy to communicate with, she is always eager to accommodate and help. I've always found her to be so understanding and flexible. She and her family are hand on and they are simply wonderful. As a resident of Malibu ( I grew up here) to see this kind of business/ establishment makes me truly happy and proud. The work that Gan is doing in terms of supporting family and the entire community is profound. With my utmost respect and highest recommendation, I thank Gan for supporting me through the first 2 years (the most trying years of me life ! hello! ). I couldn't have done it with out this place. read more

This school was the best thing that happened to my family. 2 months into my daughter starting there, our house burned down. The staff came and visited us and really made us feel warm with gifts. I went out of my way 40 mins each way to make sure she continued there while we rebuilt. For the last 3 years this school has been the constant in my daughter's life, and truly helping raise her with us. We feel like we are part of the Gan Malibu family. My other daughter will be starting in Aug. Highly recommend it to all. Bless their teachers! read more

What a wonderful place for the little ones to grow and learn through play and exploration! This will be my son's third year here. I love the scenic setting - the unobstructed iconic postcard-like view of the Pacific Ocean and the Malibu pier makes you feel like the sky is literally the limit :) I often observe children paint , make art , peacefully play and talk to each other while looking at the ocean - this makes me so happy . I also love that this is a mixed age environment. I remember when my son started at 2 years of age - older kids treated him like their little brother , they were teaching him words and games , held his hand and in a very cute way made sure he is ok . Now, that he is one of the older ones , I often see him do the same , he loves his little friends ! This preschool provides such a nurturing and beautiful environment , we love it read more

I could not have dreamt of a better preschool. The combination of Montessori and Reggio Emilia is exactly what I was looking for. The teachers are loving and practice positive parenting techniques. The children listen to them! The activities are unique and creative. The other parents are warm and fun to see at drop off and pick up. We are a big family at this school and look out for eachother. I highly recommend this environment to new families in Malibu. read more

B"H my son started at Mommy and me at Gan Malibu, he was about 1 years old. He went to the pre-school for 3 years. The pre-school was a great experience for my son. He learned how to cooperate and play with other kids. My son had many great times and got a lot of support from all of the pre-school teachers. We still go back and visit our friend's that we made during those years. I feel that Gan Pre-school gave my son a lot of tools for moving into Kindergarten. I would certainly recommend the school for anyone looking for a warm, safe place for their child to grow and get school ready. read more

Gan Malibu recently started offering infant care and we were very blessed to have found them. Cory and Jackie are the primary care teachers and they both are wonderful. They send pictures daily so we get to know how our baby is doing. The infant side of the school is very new so every week they are adding new things to enrich the environment. Every Tuesday there is a science class and Thursday a music lesson. My daughter loves music a lot so this is even better for her. The school puts a lot of thoughts into incorporating the family and holidays. On mothers day I received a card with my baby's drawings and for Father's day my husband was invited to a ceremony and received a clay with her hand print on it. While we don't practice the same religion, we never for one second feel we are left out. We are very fortunate for the opportunity to be a part of it. read more

Gan Malibu is an amazing resource for children and families. Our family was traveling on an extended vacation in Malibu and they were able to accommodate our daughter (3 years old) for a one-month session with their regular pre-school class and it was amazing from day one. They opened the classrooms doors for her and made her feel so welcome and comfortable and the space was so inviting and playful that she transitioned into their program effortlessly. The teachers at Gan Malibu are thoughtful and definitely understand children. Our family only wishes that we could have stayed longer but the vacation came to an end. We will truly miss all of the friends we made during our short stay, but her teacher who was so thoughtful made her a photo scrapbook with drawings and photos from her time there so she can always remember (so sweeeeeeeeet.) Bottom Line: This school is a gem. If you're in SoCal for any short-term (or long-term) period of time I would highly recommend this program. They know kids and it shows! read more

A fantastic loving place that embraces kids from every religion/culture. The teachers are exceptionally creative and cutting-edge in their professional skills. My children were deeply cared about at this preschool and were academically above the bar when they entered kindergarten. This school plants the ever important seeds of a love of school, learning, discovery and interest in their world. Thank u Sara! read more

I'm so impressed with the level of care my child receives at Gan Malibu. Being a first time mom can be a challenge, but the thought of leaving my child was incredibly difficult. The teachers at the infant center made me feel so comfortable and gave me such great peace of mind. I receive daily updates and pictures of my son having an amazing time with friends playing, learning, exercising and receiving so much love! My sons vocabulary and confidence has increased so much since joining the school and interacting with all the children and teachers. When I pick him up he wants us to stay and play more! Another huge relief for me is that he will be transferring directly into their preschool program when he turns two, along with friends he has made and new friends to come! I'm so lucky to have met such kind families and am so grateful to have found this community. Sarah, the director, helped me through the entire enrollment process and is always available to answer any questions I have. Gan Malibu is an excellent educational environment with an absolutely breathtaking view! Thank you to all the teachers and to Sarah for taking such good care of my son! read more

I really enjoy the learning approach of Gan Malibu preschool, a Jewish school that welcomes everyone. When visiting this preschool, you'll see that children are exploring and following their curiosity in the flexible school environment. As the music teacher, I am privileged to bring in a developmental approach that suits the multiple ages and varied interests of the students. The interests of the children are valued and supported via the arts and academic approaches, as well as a strong emotional component that respects the individuality of each child. Just an aside, imagine learning in a school that overlooks the ocean, has clean fresh air, sun, and a wonderful play yard and you'll be imagining Gan Malibu. read more

I've had 3 boys go through this preschool and was very happy with their early childhood experience there. It's a warm, loving home-like environment that provides everything they need to make the transition from home to school then preschool to kindergarten. The teachers are AMAZING and teach the children how to share and play friendly with each other while providing them with different daily activities that really foster their hand eye coordination and essential motor and life skills. This is not an academic based school, rather a school that nurtures the child's emotional well being...they have 12 years of academics ahead of them so this is the best foundation you can give them...a warm loving, nurturing well rounded caring environment, I would definitely recommend this preschool and if I have any more children, they will be there too! read more

Look no further! This is hands down the best preschool in Malibu! My daughter grew so much in a positive way since being at Gan. Sarah is the most incredible lady and so welcoming. All the kids play so well together there and you get updates about what your child is doing with pictures. Your child will learn about different cultures, do amazing art projects and if you're lucky go to the underwood farm to pick vegetables. I can't say enough about this school! read more

A beautiful setting for young developing minds .The staff and teachers are loving , kind and really know early childhood development in a nurturing fun environment . A beautiful place to be young where learning is all play read more

Gan Malibu is a warm wonderful place, where children and families are respected and cared for. Environment is amazing and peaceful. Children are engaged and happy and seem to always want to come back even years later. read more

Our5 month old and 3 year old are enriched here weekly. It is truly a God-send! We love this place!

My daughter recently started at the Gan Malibu preschool and I couldn't be happier. They have an amazing crew of teacher and the teacher to student ratio is the best I have found ANYWHERE. The play space is gorgeous and looks out over the Malibu pier with and indoor outdoor classroom and a separate playground. My daughter was just two when she started there and it took her a few weeks to adjust, the teacher were so caring and helpful. Now she loves going to school. They do all kinds of fun and educational activities with the kids including painting, cooking, water play, etc. I really can't say enough good things. :-) read more

We have had our daughter at Gan's Infant Center for six months -- since she was four months old -- and have had a fantastic experience. Her teachers are warm, caring, and knowledgeable, and she gets lots of individual attention. The space is beautiful with development-oriented toys, and she spends tons of time outside (her favorite place). Sarah and the staff keep us well-informed about both her and the school. As a working mom, I greatly appreciate that I can spend my time focused on my job completely confident that she is in a loving, safe, educational environment. read more

I am honestly kind of obsessed with this preschool. I don't even live in Malibu, but I commute to bring my daughter here because it is my favorite preschool that I have ever seen (and dear Lord did I see a lot). I searched all over Santa Monica, far and wide and was getting frustrated with the pretentious attitudes, the long wait lists, or the insane tuition. Gan Malibu was a dream come true. Not only is it much more reasonably priced, but I literally feel like I am leaving my kid at a gorgeous resort ever time we go. I know that not only is she safe, and cared for, but that she is going to have MORE fun than she would if she were with mommy (and this peace of mind is priceless). It relieves me of mom guilt (which is a miracle in and of itself lol), and she comes home saying things like please, thank you and excuse me to put the cherry on top. I feel like she's not only doing more fun activities like painting, climbing etc. when she's there, but she is also learning more structure, socialization, adherence to rules, and etiquette. It is honestly a parent's dream. Another factor is how much I like the preschool director and the teachers there. When I went to other preschools I just never felt like it was a fit. They were too serious, or they were too chaotic, or there were too many rules and structures...but literally the first time I met Sarah and Cory in the infant center I felt like I was at home. My daughter quickly transitioned over to the preschool once she turned 2, but I have baby #2 on the way and am thrilled that I already have a plan for when he is ready to venture out. Truly I could not recommend this place enough. Just do a tour and you will quickly see what I mean. read more

I send my two children to this preschool and in only a few short weeks I have watched them grow up into helpful and kind children. This school focuses on raising good citizens, great listeners, and forming children into passionate learners. The staff is highly educated and believes in focusing on the needs of each child. read more

My family has benefitted so much from "Gan Malibu Preschool": 4 out of my 5 children started their early childhood education at this loving school! It's an environment that is supportive, loving, creative. It offers a safe place for children and their family, so much so that you feel as if it's 'your home away from home'! It's the start in life you'd like every child to experience. The teachers and all the staff are nurturing, well-informed, educated, creative, caring human beings. My children made life-long friends and learnt about their environment, their community, how to give back, their Judaism, their ABC's & 123's, art, music, dance, celebration, beach walks, bike safety, recycling, respect for self and others ...and more...in a deeply nourishing environment. read more

I honestly can't say enough great things about Gan Malibu. They have the most beautiful facility set just above pch and overlooking the pier and ocean. The teachers are some of the most loving and caring people and you can really see how much they love their jobs. I have kids at both the infant center and preschool. The infant center (for under 2 year olds) has been everything I could have asked for. Clean, bright, well supplied with baby equipment, and a well thought out with the types and volume of toys. The best thing for us is that they will completely follow your child's schedule for naps/food etc compared with other places that have a set napping window. On the preschool side they have a really great program. My son has flourished in his speech and is a lot more attentive. They learn through play and it's really the best. If you are looking for at daycare or preschool Gan Malibu should definitely be top of your list. read more