I absolutely adore this place my little one enjoys walking in every morning I see the smile on her face so I know the staff is doing an amazing job ! THANK YOU GUYS FOR ALL THE LOVE And attention you give the kids read more

Both my boys have attended Mentor (my younger son from when he was 2, my older son was too old to attend full time but was allowed to do drop ins during kindergarten when the elementary school would inexplicably have days off on non-holidays). The staff here are wonderful and truly care about their families. I've recommended this daycare to all my friends. My son was not potty trained when we first started and I was told they prided themselves on getting their kids trained within 3 weeks. I was not ready to potty train, but apparently my son was because he was trained in less than a couple weeks. My kids are now in 1st and 4th grade but they still talk about Mr. GJ's wonderful cooking and, in fact, today we stopped by to visit and were welcomed warmly. My boys both read stories to the kids and joined snack time. Love Mentor. read more

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Nothing says more about how great a place is than the reaction of a child. Based on my daughter's reaction, if she could write this review, she'd give Mentor a gazillion stars. Mentor preschool is a wonderland full of activities and friends that keep her smiling and laughing non-stop. She's just thriving, learning, growing, and GLOWING everyday.  Mentor offers a structured, academic environment along with a value-based, family-type vibe. The teachers and G.J., the owner, are all positive and relaxed while also being attentive to each child's needs. We drop our little girl off each day with confidence, peace of mind, and assurance knowing that she's in great hands. Please don't let the one reviewer with an axe to grind sway you. (If you read that reviewer's profile, you'll see she repeatedly and recklessly hands out 1-star reviews with an apparent agenda to sabotage reputable facilities, many of which are preschools). This is an amazing place that promotes values, positivity, learning and growth for children. The only response that makes sense when we see our child's joy in being there is utter gratitude for having found Mentor Preschool and for the fact that our daughter gets to be a part of it. read more

As parents, we send our children off to school in hopes that they will be cared for just as well as we ourselves would care for them. At Mentor Avenue Preschool my son is being cared for in just that way. The minute you walk in the door you can feel the loving and welcoming environment. The staff is all very passionate, and you can see that they are not only working but doing what they love. My 3 year old son has learnd so much through attending Mentor Avenue. I do a lot of volunteer work in a Kindergarten classroom, and although my son still has another year before attending Kindergarten he is at or above the level of many of the Kindergarteners that I have worked with. More important than the knowledge he has acquired, is his love for learning that will stay with him for life. I am very grateful to the Mentor Avenue Preschool staff and their dedication to our children. read more

Mentor Avenue Preschool - Story Time with Miss Joi - Preschools Near Me - Pasadena, California

Five minutes don't go by without me thinking about my kid, wondering what he's doing, and hoping he's having fun. It's really hard to spend the workday without him. I was a stay-at-home dad for about a year. It was probably the best year of my life. But when the pressure to make money finally won out, I got a job and put the little guy in preschool. Fortunately, he's at Mentor Avenue Preschool. This is where you want your kid to be if they can't be with you. The teachers are caring and kind. It's obvious that they love the kids. G.J. makes the most elaborate miniature feasts. It's rare that a preschool prepares lunch for the children, but Mentor goes one step further and puts some serious effort into the food. Maybe three-year-old taste buds don't know the difference, but I like to think it makes my boy feel a little more cared for. When I pick up my kid during story time, he makes me stay because he wants to hear Miss Rosy finish reading that day's book. All the kids are always staring with complete attention, hanging on every word. I have to admit, I get a little caught up in the story, too. My kid brings home more crafts than I know what to do with. Our fridge is caked with drawings and cutouts of dinosaurs, pumpkins, cars, and what I refer to as abstract art because I can't quite tell what it is. It's not just a place to eat, play, and do crafts. I tried to teach my little guy the ABCs for months. He learned them within a few weeks at Mentor. Just the other day I heard him singing the Itsy Bitsy Spider in Spanish. This morning he taught me how to say Thanksgiving in sign language. They are helping my little guy get ready for more than just kindergarten. The rooms change with the seasons. During the summer they had a sea theme and the entire preschool looked like the ocean. One day someone had built a giant yellow submarine for the kids to play on. Right now there's a big paper tree and the school looks like autumn in the forest. They have a large outdoor playground, lots of toys, music time, a comfy-looking nap time, and overall just the ultimate day for a preschooler. You always want the best for your kid, and I feel like I've found it at Mentor Avenue Preschool. read more

I cannot, I mean... CANNOT put into words the amazingness of this school. Every detail is carefully and lovingly thought out. My little babe is a full time 2 1/2 year old who is LOVING her life with every music class, spanish class, bible class (YESSS!), sing-a-long, art project.... I mean--- I could go on and on... The teachers are passionately kind, yet still firm with discipline. (I have quite the little stubborn firecracker. haha) The teacher to child ratio is epic... not to mention the homemade meals by the headmaster. The curriculum is unmatched, & the philosophy is based on core values that my family can come alongside with zero hesitation. All of the above is fabulous, right? Well here is the icing on my Vegan & G/F Cake. Yes... Our family is Vegan G/F and they are working with me on this!! The concern and care going into this huge detail of our life has been overwhelming. Where most make us feel difficult, GJ (The headmaster) has made us feel welcomed, loved, & has been eager to learn. If you have the ability to send your kid here... DO IT!!!! You will not regret a single moment!!!! Mentor Avenue Preschool is a bright gem who's light will not go out any time soon, and we are beyond grateful for the opportunity to watch our little girl flourish in such a dynamic environment. read more

I will be grateful to Mentor Avenue preschool for the rest of my life. After the pandemic, I was told that my high functioning autistic son would not have a spot in the private Christian preschool he had been attending. My son's primary challenge with ASD is social interactions and he is an only child so him being in preschool was extremely important for his growth and development. I met with GJ on a Tuesday afternoon in June 2020 and informed him of my son's situation. He assured me that their mission is to support and nurture every child's special needs and whether or not on the spectrum, that they see every child as unique and they do their best to focus on and develop their strengths and support and encourage them in the areas they lacked. He assured that every teacher hired is done so with this mission in mind and that he is 100% confident that all of his teachers genuinely care and are committed to the wellbeing and growth of their students. I can tell you that my experience was that this was 100% true. I can go on forever, but suffice it to say, my son is playing, talking and interacting with other kids like he never has. His psychologist recently saw him and has actually recommended we wean off of therapy. I have seen and felt the love that my son received at this school and I believe it's this love that gave him the courage to move through some of his fears. To this day he has a hard time entering the school and to this day, either his teacher, Ms Denisha, the director Ms Jazmin, or anyone that is there will gently and patiently guide him to his class. Thank you to ALL the staff because I am certain that every one of you helped my little boy in some way. read more

This review is long over due! My son was here 3 years ago when they had just opened and our experience and memories are wonderful. He still asks to visit once in a while and he's now entering 2nd grade! The focus on reading, writing, art and social skills is solid. My son was fully prepared for kindergarten upon finishing at Mentor. He has made deep friendships with peers that have lasted until now. We have art assignments he completed at Mentor that were so cool we framed them and still impress our friends and family when they view his "art wall" in our home. We really appreciated the healthy, on-site cooked meals everyday and the staff worked tirelessly to be sure the kids were well cared for. We realized after trying several different preschools that if the owner is on-site everyday and involved in all aspects of the program, that is a huge indication of the level of quality care your child will receive. Hoping we can get number 2 DD in when she turns 2! We love Mentor! read more

My 3 year old son has been attending Mentor avenue preschool for about 8 months. In which time he has mastered potty training (within the second week!), recognizes letters and properly sounds them out. In addition he can recite his abc's by memory. He receives home cooked meals and 2 snacks daily. Our experience has been one of a nurturing and loving environment with a staff that allows my husband and I to leave our child without reservation daily. The environment is that of family, with Miss Rosy as a caring, but strict grandmother that instills proper manners and always has cool fun projects. Miss Bibi and Miss Jasmine are the sweet aunties that shower them with love and care. Miss Joi is the mommy that teaches with patience and attention. The assistant director, Miss Peggy, is the other fantastic loving grandmother that genuinely cares for the growth of each child. The director, GJ, is the cool dad that cooks and is always joking with the kids. One big happy family that believes in enhancing the children with culture experiences such as Spanish, music and cooking classes at no additional charge. read more

Mentor is THE BEST!!! GJ, Peggy, staff and teachers are all so amazing and most of all incredibly loving! More and more each day I am astounded by GJ's kindness and hospitality. Back in the summer of 2019 I was hesitant to take my younger son out from his beloved, small in-home daycare where the director and staff were like family to us. But it was time to move on to a preschool setting since we were looking to get comprehensive childcare that included a bit more academic focus and structure in the daily schedule. I called and toured a few other preschools in the Pasadena/Altadena area but ended up having pretty horrible experiences. As a mother to two high-energy, intelligent, rambunctious boys, I am all too familiar with constant noise and frequently challenging meltdowns/tantrums. My son was nearly 3.5 years old at the time we were searching for a preschool. He had no problems at the small in-home daycare because he was able to receive hands-on attention and care. But when I toured these other preschools I was told that he wouldn't be able to receive the same kind of attention simply because children of his age are expected to be able to sit and listen during academic instruction. Essentially, it felt like I was made to feel that my son didn't quite fit the mold. He also wasn't fully potty-trained and I think because of that he was discriminated against because he didn't fit into certain age groups due to not being potty-trained. Upon making a call to Mentor Preschool on Lake I was struck by GJ's sincerity and kindness. I will never forget his words to me when I inquired if I should bring my son to tour the school...he told me "We are here for you to find out if you like us, not the other way around." I instantly felt the love and to this day I am immensely thankful for Mentor Preschool on Lake and the awesome people there. read more

My daughter at 3 years old, started this school when it first opened in 2013, and was one of the first students. Her two years at Mentor has been amazing. The staff care about your kids as much as you do and it shows in how they teach. I always felt so comfortable to leave her in their hands. It is a good sign when I would go pick her up, and she wouldn't want to leave. The staff, teachers, directors and even the cleaning staff are all so friendly, caring, patient and accommodating, and you can tell they love what they do. The school is clean and very well maintained. The back play-yard is large and spacious. The overall cost of the school is extremely competitive, and a great overall value with pre-schools in the area. The tuition includes snacks, a homemade hot lunch, all activities,music class, second-language class, crafts and supplies. No extra cost or fees. I am so glad that I chose Mentor Avenue Preschool for my daughter, and I felt she was very prepared to succeed when she started Kindergarten this year. I can not say enough about this preschool, the knowledge that they gave my daughter and our awesome experience. read more

I can't say anything bad about this school they treat the children well . My grand daughter has gone there for 3 years and has learned a lot and now she is in TK she is doing so well that is to this wonderful place . They are safe and learn a lot from this school , learn to get along with her classmates and speaks very well . Like I said I can't say anything bad about this wonderful Blessed school for the children . I really recommend this school if you are looking for a great school . read more

I've had my 2 year old in Mentor for the last 3 months and it's been a great experience. He comes home many times a week with new skills and knowledge... really blossoming from a sweet baby into a fun kiddo! Obviously the first few times/weeks are tough dropping off, but the teachers really helped and now he gives me a quick kiss and is off to play with his new friends and teachers. It's heartwarming to see that now! Also, I feel very comfortable that I could ask any question or make a request and the teachers and director will be very accommodating. Great school overall! read more

My daughter is three years old and just started last September. Since then, she had learned so much- from counting to knowing her alphabets, sounding out letters and now, she's even staring to read simple words. Their staff are very friendly and accomodating. They assess kids and teach according to the kids style of learning. The staff communicates to us, parents and makes recommendations on what may help enhance our child's skills. They provide a safe and nurturing environment. The tuition fee is very reasonable. It includes "home cooked" meals and snacks, all art and learning materials. The tuition is also inclusive of extra corricular classes such as music, learning second language and cooking. read more

We've had our daughter at Mentor Preschool for a few months now and it is already clear that enrolling her here is one of the best things we've done for her. Our daughter is over-flowing with joy just to be there. The environment is loving and home-y as well as productive and structured. The kids are cared for in the way any mother would want their child to be in terms of love, nurturing and kindness, AND they are learning about science, art, cooking and language! Moreover, the kids are taught principles such as kindness, hope, trust, sharing, gratitude and love on a daily basis. I honestly could not ask for a better place for my child be. Meanwhile G.J. the owner cooks up homemade meals everyday AND he works with our family's vegan diet! He has been unbelievably accommodating, professional and courteous in every way and the teachers are all equally awesome. We just feel so lucky to be a part of this family. Thank you Mentor for providing a wonderful, loving and nurturing environment for our little ones. The world will be a better place with more kiddos in it that have grown-up in your school. Keep up the great work. :) read more

Our daughter has been coming to Mentor preschool since she was 3 (she's about to be 5) We came here after moving her from another preschool program since we moved for work. I was very nervous to transfer her as she was already acclimated to her other school. We did two tours here before deciding to enroll her. We looked at so many places in Pasadena and Arcadia and no one was comparable to Mentor. They make homemade meals for all the kids and learn your child's names, likes, dislikes ect very quickly. My daughter loves her classmates and all her teachers. They also have many potlucks and events so all the parents also get to know each other. If you're looking for more than just a place to drop of your child and go to work... this is it! They make you and your child feel very welcomed and like extended family ! Side note: they sent the children and parents a video of all the teachers saying how much they miss the kids (during covid shut down) and my daughter watched this video on repeat naming all her teachers with such joy! Thank you Mentor for always making Adeline feel like she's home read more

So thankful that I found this preschool for my then 3 year old son. He is now 4 years old and has learned a lot for him to be ready for the 'BIG' school. The staff are just awesome. Very patient, loving and nurturing. Just the second home that you would want for your little ones. They provide learning activities, arts and crafts, eating healthy, good manners. Just 5 stars for this awesome school. Keep up the good work!!! read more

My daughter started to go to Mentor Preschool one year ago when she was 2 years 10 months old. At that time she didn't speak any English (we spoke Mandarin with her at home) and was very frustrated about spending the whole day at school without us. But the teachers at Mentor Preschool have been very patient and gentle to her all the time, which I really appreciate! Ms Steff always comforted her when she was crying after we dropped her off, and Ms Peggy, Ms Jazmin, Ms Rosie and other teachers were also very kind and caring to her. Now she loves going to school! Every day when I pick her up, she tells me :"mom, I had a really great day at school!" And she often wants to stay there for a few more minutes. Not only can she speak fluent English now, she can also speak a little Spanish, know well about phonics, sing a lot of songs and make fantastic crafts! We are so happy to see her growth & happiness. As parents, we always feel welcomed and enjoy all the the family events every couple of months - thanks to GJ (the headmaster)! I would definitely recommend the school to others! read more

My daughter has been coming to this preschool for about a year and I'm very happy with it! All of the teachers are very nice, and will tell you if they have any concerns or anything that may have happened at school. It is a bit more expensive than we were paying before, but totally worth it! Initially we were on a 6 month waiting list, but were able to get in in about 3! read more

Love this school my son has been going to Mentor for the last 2 years. It is the best place for the child to play and learn. Very nice staff of teachers. My son loves it there. read more

I love this school,my girl has had so much to learn.The staff is very helpful and attentive to detail.It is amazing how my two year old asks to be taken to school as soon as she gets out of bed! This literally shows she loves being here! read more

Most the teachers there are nice, especially Mr. J.J and Ms. Kaylin. But all the kids are studying in the same room. That's a little bit noisy. Sometimes my daughter said she waked up during the nap time because someone talking in the room. And they have many rules. No toys from home. No climbing at the playing yard. No running in the studying room. And so on. That's both good and bad for kids. Depending on what you care about. read more

I get teary eyes and really sad whenever I think about leaving Mentor. They set the bar really high for me. I toured at least 20 schools before enrolling them here. On top of that, we would drive 20m each way to go there. That shows how much I like to have my kids there. One of the best things that you cannot find anywhere else is their daily food menu. It's different every day and delicious. Your kids won't have to eat burgers and all that unhealthy food every week like other daycares. The teachers are so caring and loving toward my sons. My older son has grown up with the same friends for 2 years and they all care for him. It shows the teachers did a great job teaching them. The owner is very cooperative and willing to do anything to help you with whatever requests you have. The facility is great and open so you don't have to worry about the kids being mistreated by the teachers without anyone knowing like a separate private classroom. We're moving to Colorado and I'm having the hardest time finding any daycare/school that matches Mentor quality. Letting your kids go here will be one of the best decisions you can make for them. read more

No words could do this school justice. We are so thankful we found this school, and wish all kids could have this pre-elementary experience. The activities keep the kids engaged (cooking classes, art projects about famous artists and different textures, science discussions including metamorphosis and bodily functions, manners and lifelong principles, Spanish instruction, dancing and the list goes on), the staff keep the parents informed, and the owner creates chef-quality lunches daily. Our toddler loves this school, and the family environment they create makes you feel like you're more than just another tuition. My kid is safe, excited to learn, developing great habits, and challenging us to expand on what she's learned at the school. Thank you to all of the teachers, Ms. Peggy, and Mr. GJ (and Mr. GJ's family) for giving our daughter a great start to her education. read more

I have 2 daughters attending Mentor Avenue Preschool- what a blessing this school has been to our family. The teachers are loving and caring... They are very committed to the children's development and growth. My 4 year old is currently learning Spanish and Sign Language (ASL) and she is able to use what she learns in the community! My 2 year old has blossomed verbally and socially. The best part is the reinforce what we are teaching at home regarding the love of God and Jesus Christ!!! read more

Having researched many many preschools, I was thrilled to have found Mentor Ave Preschool. My daughter was the first to attend this charming arts based school from 2013-2014. I was immediate impressed by their knowledge of art, music and world cuisine. My daughter blossomed under their tutelage. The staff is caring & well rounded & very lucky to have Mr. G.J. as the school's chef (in addition to being the owner, handyman, etc!). I can't tell you how many times I wished they handed me a plate of their delectable lunches! The children get to sample cuisines from the Phillippines, Mexico, & England just to name a few. I am thrilled that my son is now attending this gem and am looking forward to framing all his forthcoming artwork read more

Our three-year-old daughter has attended Mentor Avenue for about 6 months. We love this preschool, more importantly, she loves this preschool. She runs to the door when I take her to school and asks for "five more minutes" when I pick her up. The director and the teachers are so attentive and joyous. They model kindness and teach great social skills. Our daughter has made lots of friends (even boys), learned a little Spanish, learned a little sign language, and learned about artists and instruments. In cooking class she measures, grates, and mixes. My husband and I always feel welcome and we like going to the family events every couple months. I can't say enough about the fun, friendly community at Mentor Avenue. read more

I've been sending my daughter here for already a few months but only part time and she loves it. They are a very smaller and quaint school. Everyone is so nice and friendly. They are teaching her to potty train and she hasn't had any accidents so far. Love it. They have a huge backyard play area and my daughter loves it. I'm so happy I found Mentor and so happy my daughter loves going to school! I would definitely recommend this school to others. read more

I was shocked to see that the owner of Mentor Ave. Preschool rated my review as being FUNNY. This proves to me and all how this person does not take his business seriously. If I had a business this would have not been my response. I would have not been childish in my actions and I would have taken responsibility for an unsatisfied customer. read more

I am so glad we chose Mentor Ave Pre School as soon as our daughter turned two years old! Mentor was sort of a transition school for our daughter because I ended up going back to work sooner than later and her other school that I had already registered and paid for was not starting for another three months. During those three months, my daughter thrived! She learned numbers, colors, ABC's....communicating in English and some Spanish, singing at least 10 toddler songs all on her own! Best of all, within the first two weeks she was there, the teachers fully potty trained her and made my job so much easier. Thank you GJ, staff and all the wonderful and loving teachers. You guys are simply amazing! We will have to come by and visit one of these days.....Sophia mentions Ava, Zoe and all the kids names whenever we drive by. She really enjoyed and looked forward to her time at Mentor Ave. Thank you for putting this first time mama's mind at ease every morning when I dropped off my child. God Bless. read more

We love everything about this school! The teachers and the owner, GJ, are all so wonderful. GJ is very much involved with the daily activities and is always cooking up a storm for his staff and the kids. Lunch is provided as well as morning and afternoon snacks. Our 4yo daughter has been attending for a couple of months now and she loves it. She always comes home singing new songs (sometimes in Spanish too as they teach that as well), bringing art work, telling us who her friends are and raving about her teachers especially Miss Steff. They are family oriented putting on family events about every 2 months. So far we've attended grandparents day and the pumpkin patch. Really cool! My husband and I looked into other preschools in the area and we are very happy with our choice. read more

Love the staff and the families at Mentor. My daughter has learned about many great things here too! Thanks Mentor!!!