A Hidden Gem of a Preschool My little one spent three wonderful years at Southwood, and I truly could not be more pleased. As an educator myself, I was looking for a preschool that prioritized social interaction and the arts--and Southwood has been an affordable jackpot. The administration consists of the owner and three extremely hard-working directors. They've worked together for many years and run the school like a well-oiled machine. From Christmas and Grandparents' Day to Mother's Day, Father's Day, Halloween costume parades, and even a sweet "Graduation" ceremony, they go all out planning thoughtful, memorable events for the children and their families. Students regularly sing for their families and are treated to special experiences like puppet shows. The teachers are incredibly caring and knowledgeable about early childhood development. They consistently model how to identify feelings and guide children through managing their emotions in healthy, age-appropriate ways. Lesson plans are posted every Monday outside the classroom, and I now have two large boxes filled with my child's artwork--each piece reflecting classroom themes like colors, ecosystems, countries around the world, and famous artists. For an additional cost, children can join high-quality enrichment classes like dance, gymnastics, music, computers, and karate. We did most of them (except karate) and enjoyed every one. As my child heads off to TK, she can write every letter of the alphabet, her full name, match letters to their sounds, and is beginning to sound out words during our bedtime reading. She loves school, the friends she's made, and the teachers who have supported her every step of the way. I will deeply miss this sweet little preschool. Southwood has been a loving, supportive village, and it has laid a phenomenal foundation for my daughter's love of learning. read more

Southwood was the best decision we could have made for our son. It taught him structure, independence, and how to share/play well with others. They do a great job teaching the kids everything they need to know to prepare for Kindergarten. I wasn't nervous at all when he started TK at elementary school knowing that he has the skills to succeed (can already write his name, knows his numbers, letters, sounds). They also do a lot of great artwork that they send home with you every day and put on holiday events where the kids sing and perform. Lots of great memories at this school. Thank you to all the wonderful teachers and staff! read more

The absolute best pre-school. The teachers are all so warm and caring and our daughters are always so happy here. They do so many fun events for the kids, every holiday, and they learn so much while having the best time. Couldn't be happier with Southwood. I wish my kids could stay here forever. read more

Excellent and caring staff. Highly recommend. Was thoroughly prepared for the next journey

Not a fan place to work The Vibes are selective among peers. Sad, the turnover is humongous... and the parent's complaint about the affliction they endured with Gladys and her cohorts. read more

Both my grandchildren went there. What great teachers! They love and help the kids. Both of my grandkids flousiehd there. Miss Rebecca in the Orange Room is a real jewel.. but they're all fantastic. Nice facility, good special events for holidays and (especially) grandparents day!! read more

At first I really liked this preschool despite the provided lunch are not healthy. However, the teachers change constantly which is not a thing for a little kid to adjust frequently. Very disappointing. I won't recommend any of my friends to send their precious ones here. read more

My two children attended Southwood preschool in 2010-2014. At the beginning of our experience with Southwood the school was staffed with credentialed teachers and administrators who cared and made school seem fun and nurturing. Later the school lost it appeal to me to the point that I pulled my children out. The school downgrade appeared to have started when the preschool founder's son, Mr. Len, took over the business upon retiring from his firefighting career. I met with Mr. Len a couple of times. My impression of him after these meetings was that while I am sure Mr. Len was a great firefighter, Mr. Len came with no experience in running a business, administration, or child care. The first steps Mr. Len did was to replace established school staff with largely under-educated (cheaper?) staff, and raise tuition (I did't mind that). The most damaging staff change, in my view, was the new school director - Ms. Cookie, who effectively started to run Southwood. My first impression of Ms. Cookies was that she is an energetic and ambitious woman with zero teaching credentials and no degree of any sort. Within a year the school had a new clickish group of teachers and administrators largely consisting of Ms. Cookies own relatives and friends. The teachers no longer seem to be loving or caring or even fun. They lacked enthusiasm and didn't seem to love their jobs. I've heard a few teachers yell and bully the children. I've witness new staff gossip about parents, the children, and the situations in students' homes. Several times I've witnessed the new director (Ms. Cookie) bully and threaten the teachers who wanted to improve the school or bring innovation. I stuck in this school for another year, and then pulled my children out. read more

Where do I begin with this place. Lets just say if you knew somebody was having the best day of their life. And you wanted to ruin it. Have them walk into Southwood Preschool and talk to the office staff!! That experience will for sure ruin your day and what ever happiness you had. Maybe they just didn't like me, i'm not sure. But if you read the filtered reviews they are accurate. Midway thru the year they also raised fee's. not in the beginning when enrollment started. Christmas time. REALLY!! They knew people won't drag their kid out of school mid year. They took advantage. They also claimed that it was for three reasons, Facility improvement- I understand upkeep on a single home and understand the cost of a facility like Southwood. To claim its for carpet and other big ticket items is at a disadvantage for me. Makes me feel like I'm paying for improvements while my son will not be there because since we are paying for them with tuition increases, we can't take them with us. Special events- You present your events for free and absorb these cost. Yet here is another reason for your tuition increase. So is it really free and absorbed? Food Services- My son never ate the food here. It should be an option for tiered pricing. And can you believe another reason was because they baked cookies for parents on friday. which were gone every time I show up. Why even claim you provide them if you charge for them. I'll tell you what they did buy. A nice big oversize TV to display pictures. Make sure you read the filtered reviews, they are accurate and current. read more

One of the best decisions I ever made as a parent was the day I walked into Southwood for the first time. The staff is so sweet, competent and great with the children. Every day when I'd drop off my child, all I saw was smiles on the faces of all the children. Each classroom even has "one-sided glass," so you can peek in unannounced at any time. Every holiday - Christmas, Halloween, Mother's Day, etc. - is celebrated with a special evening. Parents, grandparents and siblings all attend, and the children perform adorable little songs that the teachers help them memorize. I have so many wonderful pictures! In addition, they have "snow" days, they being in pony rides, offer swim class, karate and ballet, and I even was asked to come in and read books to my son's class- what a wonderful day that was! Above all else, my boy learned to write his name, knows his letters and numbers and colors, basic geography, and other things that have prepared him well for kindergarten. All done with TLC, by a staff that had a smile for me every day. I would HIGHLY recommend Southwood as your child's first school. I'm fact, this is my first Yelp review - I created an account to write this, just because I feel so strongly about letting parents know when we've found such a great place. There's a reason Southwood has been around for all these decades - and they have some epic photo albums dating back to the early Seventies to show all the kids whose lives they've touched! Head on over, check the place out, and say hi to Miss Cookie and her wonderful staff. They'll most likely be decorating the hallway with kids' artwork or planning their next big party for the parents. It's heartwarming to know that my son got his first taste of education from such good people. read more

I Love Southwood! My son is in the 3 year old class with Ms. Gidget, Ms. Yvonne, and Ms. Lauren (she's new). They are awesome...so nurturing. My son gets so excited when its time for preschool. They serve hot lunch every day except Fridays. Maybe slightly pricier than other preschools.. bc it's walking distance from my house.. and all that they do.. so worth it! read more

Our experience with Southwood started out great but unfortunately ended on a very sad note. Southwood had a waiting list about 10 pages long so i thought there was no chance we would ever get in there. However, when we had to leave our old school due to a scheduling issue, i called Southwood and we were admitted for both kids. My oldest son was in the Blue room and his experience was great... i can't say enough nice things about the staff in there (Miss Lauren and Ms. Linda)... they were truly amazing and caring and he was able to thrive in that environment. Sadly my youngest did not have a positive experience. He is a late bloomer in regards to speech and potty training so his social skills also developed behind what's the normal 'curve'. One of his teachers took an active interest in him and really worked with him, but because he was not potty trained by the end of his school year he was unable to advance up a year. Being in the same class caused him to regress further. Until one day it became too much and he was asked to leave the school. We knew it was coming but unfortunately the way the school approached it was very unprofessional in my opinion. We were called in for what we THOUGHT was a sit-down and problem solving session only to be handed a letter advising we had two weeks and then had to be out. This was the first time we had been invited in for a session, and apparently the last. Southwood is not equipped nor does it want to assist children who need special attention. With a waiting list as long as they have, they don't need to as a spot can easily be filled by a child not needing special attention. After reading some of the former reviews too, i can now see our experience was not unique. If your child requires any amount of extra nurturing, adjustment time, and/or love from the teachers, this is not the place for you. It saddens me that it ended up this way. read more

This school was recommended by a friend. It was the best thing that I could have done for my daughter. She started at 2 years old after she was potty trained, although they will do that for you, too! She learned to swim there, they had a agreement with the YMCA and took the classes there to swim. They offered ballet, too. There is an enclosed play area with lots of equipment. They prepare meals for the kids at lunch that's healthy. Classes were small and tere were several for each level. Parents could sobserve through one-way mirrors so your kid (and the teacher) didn't know you were watching. It's clean and organized. They operate through the summer, too. We were sad to leave. read more

Southwood Preschool is an amazing school where my grandson learned from some amazing teachers and staff. The director Cookie is the best. She has a leadership quality that's both friendly and consistent and the kids just adore her. Everyone there is all about the kids and there learning experiences and growth. The teachers are just wonderful in keeping the kids in a fun safe environment while learning to be within their own little persons community. These first few years before regular school are the foundation for our kids and there is no better place I want my grandson Nico to be. So thank you all because I know it takes a village. Much respect. Joe and Cathy Pittera (Grandparents to Nico Matthews.) read more

Southwood Pre-School - Our grandson and superstar Nico! And we are just his groupies!! - Child Care & Day Care Near Me - Torrance, California

Worst preschool ever! This should have been our first sign to stay far away---our kids contracted whooping cough and were hospitalized for two months. We notified Cookie (the director)at Southwood and told her to notify the other parents in case our son had spread it to them. She never notified the other parents!!! According to the CDC, preschools are required to notify other parents in situations like this, but Southwood---no way! Fast forward. Our son was getting hit by a student pretty much on a daily basis. He told the teachers and they ignored it. We observed this same student hitting another girl at our son's birthday party. The owner (Les) of the preschool did not even investigate what was going on at the school and instead kicked our son out because he did not want to deal with it (and also maybe because the other kid was related to a Southwood teacher). There are a few good teachers at Southwood, but also quite a few who are lazy and make it very obvious that they are burnt out with their jobs. The owner only cares about making money. There is a high turnover rate with teachers, which also isn't good for the kids. read more

We absolutely love this place! They do SO much for the kids- truck in 10 tons of snow in January for "snow days", a petting zoo in October, Santa in December, water play in the summer. The list just goes on and on. Not only that but the tuition rates are more than competitive; compared with other schools that charge by the week southwood charges monthly- do the math, it's probably cheaper than most. They will even allow a week of "vacation" per year where you don't have to pay for time your child is not in school. Every time I go in there the staff is friendly and know who I am and the names and locations of my children. Which is not something I can say for all the other local preschools. Others have commented on "turn over" the teachers are usually working toward a credential, which when they receive are likely to go to a place where they can be paid accordingly. This does not bother me in the slightest and neither of my children have ever had any problem with any of the teachers, in fact my kids talk about how much they love their teachers all the time. read more

We just started at Southwood Preschool this past September (2016) for our 4year old and are on the waitlist for our soon-to-be 2year old. My 4yo has gone to another school for 3 years and did well enough there but our experience at Southwood has been amazing. My daughter loves it, she is engaged, is being challenged and nurtured. The teachers are warm and approachable. The staff are friendly and helpful. Our first week was more of a struggle for me than it was for my daughter, and everyone there welcomed me with open arms. A couple of highlights that have made our experience wonderful to date: -daily sheets with updates on her day: if she ate well, if she napped, and how she behaved; plus any special notes or reminders for upcoming events -monthly themes coincide with holidays, includes lots of artwork and treasures -fun events including petting zoo, Halloween parade, santa visit, Christmas program, and snow day is what I've experienced so far -Friday is bring your own lunch: I was not a fan at first because I've always had her food provided and I struggled with forgetting, etc. However, seeing has she will soon attend Kindergarten and will need to bring her own lunch daily this has been great practice for me! -The drive thru drop off is THE best way to help the needy little one that drags out the good-byes and makes you late for early morning meetings to cope with separation. It took us a couple of months before she was ready to try it and I was skeptical at first but she loved it- something new, something fun. -fun school portraits -I said it already but everyone that works there has been welcoming, helpful, nurturing, and great -Friday cookies in the morning- WHAT?! yes, you read that correctly. They bake the cookies in the kitchen and provide them at the front desk for everyone as they enter. The smell alone is wonderful -first day of school, my little one fell and scraped her knee. She didn't know anyone and was in pain. One of the teachers immediately cared for her in the most lovingly manner which made a huge impact on her (and me). My daughter always retells the story of how she was scared and sad and how THAT teacher took care of her. She's since fallen and hurt herself many times (kids will be kids) and everyone there has been great to help her but the first time was the most impactful and set the tone for the rest of our time to date- the teachers are caring and patient. I can go on and on with all the reasons how Southwood has been great for us. So much so I cannot wait for my youngest to go there as well. I am thankful that we found Southwood and always share it with all of my friends having babies or ready to send their little ones to school. read more

My son loves it. we've been going 2x / week half day for a little over a month now and we are very very pleased. My son is always happy to go and play. They had a Santa day over Christmas where Santa came and visited ALL the class rooms. The teachers are very engaged. The only downfall is that I wish the lunches had a more healthier flair. Meals on school days are a little different that what we usually serve at home. A monthly menu is provided. read more

When you're trying to find a preschool for your child you're really looking for a place where you know your child will be well taken care of and safe. Southwood is exactly that. Not only does my son feel comfortable and loved at Southwood, but they also have a well balanced curriculum and great teachers who truly care for the well being of every child. Ms. Cookie, the director, is a prime example of that. I highly recommend Southwood Preschool to anyone in the Southbay looking for a nurturing environment to help your child grow in many ways. I promise you won't be let down. read more

A 5 Star Recommendation !!! I am involved grandmother of two children who have attended Southwood Pre-School over the last 5 years. The school is clean, well run and the staff is friendly and caring. The school is more than a child care center with a great play area and activities to occupy the child; it is a learning center that teaches age appropriate skills and information, The children are taught how to interact with other children and adults, The are taught the basic plus more to prepare them for kindergarten and to be good citizens. Equally important, at days end they are happy with there accomplishments and what they have learned and the fun they had. Many of the teachers have been at Southwood for years with few turn overs. That in it's self sends a positive and secure message to parents looking for a great place to send their children each day. They acknowledge good behavior which is a positive reinforcing learning tool for the child. The daily report card the parent receives is a helpful indicator of any possible issues that the child may be having. They take continuous misbehavior by the child seriously and address it accordingly. The teachers and support staff encourage the participation of the parents and family members in identifying the reason for and working together to correct the behavior of the child. The family participation activities will be missed. It is obvious, that a great deal of hard work and preparation by all including the children goes into each special occasion. For Obvious reasons, one of my favorites is Grandparents Day! All who are involved, Mr. Lenny, Miss Cookie, MIss Jenna and all the wonderful hardworking teachers are an asset to the success of each child who leaves Southwood. Thank you for caring and teaching my grandchildren read more

I cannot say enough good things about Southwood. My daughter loves it there and so do we. The staff and teachers are amazing, as are the events, and there are a ton of events. We were on the wait list for a while, so if you are interested in this amazing school get a tour and get your name on the list. You will not regret it. read more

My review is way overdue. Both my 15 year old, and 6 year old kids went there. Now on the waiting list to bring my baby there as soon as she is 2! We went through so many different pre-schools before finding this one 12 years ago and I would never even consider going elsewhere. Great facility, wonderful, loving staff, great program. I have referred many friends to this place throughout the years and they have all loved it! read more

Our daughter is close to graduating from Southwood but has loved her time there. Every teacher she's had has been great and it's definitely going to be rough when she has to leave some of her favorite people behind. Her little sister is going to be ready for preschool soon and will also be going here. Great activities, lunches four days a week, excellent optional classes (karate, swimming, & ballet so far for us), and a very friendly staff all contribute to a very well run and much appreciated preschool experience. Highly recommended! read more

We love southwood! Ms Laura and Ms Stephanie are amazing teachers to my daughter Arya in the re room!! Her 3 month old brother is already on the wait list! read more

My 3-year-old daughter loves to go to "school" now and I love to take her there. Southwood has enough structure, but allows a lot of supervised play time as well. She's learning to write her name, and paint, and sing, and climb, and make new friends. The teachers seem involved and caring. During the summer, they have fun activities, like "pirate day" and pony rides. One thing to know, that is not shared in the literature, is that the students say Christian grace before lunch. I was surprised by this as I thought it was a non-religious school. read more

It's definitely not the most friendly place on earth; teachers are nice but don't seem too enthusiastic about their jobs (at least in my daugher's class). Energy is low. Before she was two my child was in daycare and her teacher had so much energy and enthusiasm I was sure my daughter was having a better time there than with me. My child is not potty trained and I've noticed on a few occasions that they did not change her diaper. They do have fun activities in the summer and they have activities in the classroom. read more

Southwood Preschool is a wonderful school. My daughter graduated from there and my son currently attends. The staff are all welcoming, supportive and kind. They greet me every morning and hug my children goodbye each day. The special events they hold (Mother's Day, Father's Day, Grandparents Day, Olympic Week, Circus Extravaganza to name a few) are above and beyond. I am so appreciative of the academics they expose the students to. As a kindergarten teacher myself, it is wonderful to know that Southwood prepares children for elementary school in a rich, engaging, and fun way to learn. read more

1st class staff that know how to take care of the kids. My child went there for 3 1/2 years. They were organized and kid-centric helping to build child self esteem and self-confidence. Good lunches. read more

Any parents out there trying to start their children in a preschool and have to deal with separation issues or tantrums due to the huge transition... this is NOT the place for you! After only 2 hours, my three year olds were asked to leave! Yes, there were tantrums. That being said, it was their very first day of school after being home an entire summer with mom. New people, new friends to make and also separated from each other. There was no effort put in to help with the transition, only that the teachers have been met with aggression and they cannot have it. My girls were not 'conforming' to the routines that the other children were performing (after only 2 hours), so they were labeled 'not ready' and we were asked to leave. I'm beyond disappointed with the lack of compassion and understanding for a three year old and for all of the change that they are trying to make sense of on their first day of school. We were not given another day, not a few days, or even a week to see if things got better. We were flat out, asked to leave. I've never been so disgusted with the lack of effort to help guide a child in these instances. read more