I have been lucky enough to have my children attend University Synagogue Preschool for the past six years. Currently, during the COVID pandemic the school has been a saving grace for our family. I feel 100% confident that everyone in the preschool has the children's best interests at heart, all the time. Heidi sends a current health status of all teachers and students keeping everyone updated. That has been both refreshing and reassuring. Each time something has popped up, solutions are found promptly. A lot can happen in six years. One amazing place that stays the same is this magical preschool. USPS is warm, inviting, loving, empathetic, creative, playfully academic, diverse, and accepting. I find Heidi (the Administrator) to be the most inclusive woman I've ever met. She's got a gift for knowing how to find the very best teachers and families. She's even been known to turn total strangers into lifelong friends. She's done it for me! You would be lucky to have your child attend University Synagogue Preschool. read more

University Synagogue Preschool has been such a special place for our family. We actually drive close to an hour each way just so our girls can be here, and it's absolutely worth it. From day one, the school felt like the right fit. The community is warm and welcoming, and families come from all different backgrounds. Even though my husband isn't Jewish, we've always felt included and embraced. The teachers are amazing at getting down on the kids' level and making school exciting. Our oldest just started kindergarten and was more than ready, and both of our girls are thriving in every way. Andrea and Jordanna, the directors, are incredible. They're approachable, always in touch, and you can tell they truly care. Our daughters run into school every morning with huge smiles, which says it all for us. We're so thankful to be part of USP--it really feels like a second home for our kids. read more

We love USP! We are so grateful we have found an amazing, warm and nurturing space for our toddler to go everyday. We know he's being well taken care of and learning so much. From the staff, the teachers and the directors. We can't thank you enough! read more

I can't say enough positive things about USP! We started our eldest when the pandemic was in full swing and now our youngest will be starting her second year there. As soon as you walk in, you're treated like family and from a parent's perspective that's all you really want from the place in which your children are spending a big chunk of their day. Thank you for providing my kids with a safe and loving home away from home. read more

University Synagogue Pre-School - Preschools Near Me - Irvine, California

USP has been our kids' home away from home for the last few years and we are so grateful to all of the teachers and staff for making it feel like you're leaving your kids with extended family! We tried a couple of different pre-schools and I can wholeheartedly say that USP is the most child-centered environment and truly adapts to meet each child's needs. For example, my son stopped napping a littler after he turned 2 years old and instead of forcing him to sit quietly while everyone else napped (like so many other schools do), he joined enrichment classes during that time. He got to learn, it avoided unnecessary struggle, and he absolutely loves going to school. They give the kids plenty of outdoor time, they do activities which I would never think to do at home, and bring in gym coaches, art, music, dance, fun science experiments. Everything they do is with the kids in mind while also being so extremely responsive, supportive, and accommodating for the parents. Thank you for all you do for our family! read more

This summer I can give my review as a grandparent. During the school year , I am happy to say that I teach 3 year olds, 3 days a week. Our classroom is always a joyful place . This summer as I stopped by school for Shabbat or to take photographs. I am also the school "photographer "...a hobby I enjoy immensely. Documenting the happiness in this wonderful environment is always thrilling .I pass on the photos to the parents through e-mail so they can share in their child's day. On my visits , I witnessed a wonderful , innovative and healthy environment. This summers camp program included a flamenco guitarist, a bagpiper, science and a bubble program. I also loved seeing our own Chef Ernie cooking with all the classes. Ernie incorporated books and learning with each lesson. A water pump week was particularly exciting. Children love water play and this was a fabulous opportunity. ( Pictures can be seen above ) read more

University Synagogue Pre-School - Summer Fun - Preschools Near Me - Irvine, California

The best decision we have made for our daughter. We knew this place was different already on the introductory tour, but after two years of attending University Synagogue, we feel lucky to have found this place. On the one hand, everything is professional, planned, and thought out and on the other hand, it is warm and feels like one big family. If your child has ever attended a different school, you will notice the difference immediately. If this is the first time you are sending your child to preschool, we cannot recommend it highly enough. Thank you, Heidi, and the amazing teachers and staff for creating such a special place for our children. read more

University Synagogue Pre-School - Preschools Near Me - Irvine, California

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I have had more than one LGBT parent reach out about my review so I feel compelled to update. While staffing has changed pretty drastically, the same director is in charge. She is phenomenal and is very inclusive. Our last child just left the school at the end of the 2018 school year and we were only treated with dignity by her and the entire staff. However, there was a 2018 school event where I overheard three moms talking. One told a very crude and homophobic joke. I immediately began to cry and informed them that it was offensive. (They didn't know I was behind them and able to hear.) I heard from two of the moms shortly after, but the third (that had actually told the "joke") never spoke to me again. That mom is now the president of the preschool. I don't know what impact that would have on an LGBT family at the school, but in today's climate, words are particularly harmful and scary. I felt it was important to disclose this to LGBT faMilies reading my review since I had mentioned the inclusiveness for our community in my previous review. I also want to note that I never shared the story with any staff. read more

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This is an excellent preschool that our daughter has attended full-time over the last 2 years. Here are a few reasons why I'm glad we decided on University Synagogue Preschool: The teachers seem to have the autonomy to draw from multiple educational approaches and implement them in various ways in the classroom. This was especially evident with the amazing TK teachers. The teachers are also attentive to each child's personality and unique needs.  The playground has a lot to explore, plenty of unique materials for creativity, lots of shade, a trike area, plus a robust garden that the TK class uses for extended learning.  The enrichment classes are diverse with dance, clay, music, Hebrew, Spanish, math, sports, and gymnastics - to name a few.  They offer an excellent Summer Camp with themed weeks that are chock-full of interesting and special summer activities. The kids always look forward to Water Play days! The special events and special guests that the preschool hosts throughout the year and during summer camp are refreshingly unique and such a delight for the kids. There are periodic craft and story times where senior citizens join the preschoolers for intergenerational interaction. There are separate rooms for kids who nap versus those who only need a rest time - a nice detail in their oversight of the children.  The director Ms. Heidi does a great job of creating a nurturing and warm family-type atmosphere and environment for the kids. She communicates with the parents clearly and consistently, keeping parents well-informed. She also did an excellent job in handling the COVID-19 crisis. A variety of Zoom classes were set up, a drive-through TK Graduation was held, and teachers conducted social distancing home visitations. I'm thankful for this wonderful preschool and all the fantastic teachers - Mindy, Linda, Dilani, Julia, Sheila, Farishta, Jordana, Melody, Sue, Jeanette, Iona, Shelley, Pam, Beverly, Susan, and so many others! read more

A terrific preschool taught by a wonderful faculty of teachers. Our daughter is at the end of her second (and last) year the preschool before she starts K in the fall. Her experience has been magical. The teachers are warm, inviting, and engaging. They engage with each child where the child is, and do a great job of building community and teaching appropriate skills. Before the quarantine, my daughter regularly came home with another art project she did in class (a version of Van Gogh's sunflowers, or a drawing of her best friend). The before-school breakfast program and after-school play program are great for working families. The school is attached to a Synagogue, and there is definitely a component to the curriculum that is focused on Judaism, but as someone who isn't Jewish, I have to say that I was entirely comfortable with the amount of Jewish religion and culture in the classroom. I'd recommend this preschool to anyone of any faith (or no faith) who is looking for a strong program with dedicated teachers. We'll definitely miss preschool when my daughter heads to kindergarten in the fall. read more

This Preschool is nothing like the rest out there. It's a magical place where your children can thrive and excel socially, physically and academically. This school teaches the most wonderful values and morals and ethics so that your children grow up to be good people and good adults. It's lays down the perfect foundation. I highly recommend if you a looking for a Preschool that's more like a family look no further. The teachers, staff and director are far better here then any other place. Children need to be loved and show love and this is demonstrated daily! Thank you US Preschool we are really going to miss you read more

Seven years ago I walked through the glass doors at University Synagogue Preschool for the first time. I was referred to the preschool by my neighbor who highly recommended the school. I was looking for a preschool for the most precious thing in my life at the time, my three year old son. After an exhausting search for the "right" preschool entailing schools that were too big, too small, too smelly, too close to a freeway and so on and so on...... I knew instantly that USPS was the place were I would send my son. I was warmly greeted by Miss Heidi's smile and she took me on a tour. The further I walked into the school and learned about the program, the more I knew this was the place for son. Recently our 2nd child graduated from their program, and although I am heartbroken to leave the school, I know both of my children have been loved and cared for by the extraordinary staff. Plus, they were both ready -day one- for kindergarten. I can not begin express how thankful I am for the wonderful opportunities and memories the staff helped create for my children and for me. I met so many amazing parents from all around the world. I made my first Israeli & South African friends who taught me about their cultures. And I was able to meet and bond with other moms who had young children in the Parent & Me program. Through it all, USPS staff was there for my family with smiles and hugs. read more

If you are looking for the best preschool and kindergarten in all of Orange County, you have found it!! I have never met a director or teachers who were as dedicated and kind as this amazing staff! Andrea, the director, is extraordinary! The teachers are the best and every day when I come in, all I consistently see are happy, thriving children! I wish this school ran all through elementary level because no other school can hold a candle to this one! Deciding on a school for your child is never an easy decision, but if you want the best for your child, look no further than this fantastic school! read more

Today my daughter graduated from this awesome preschool. She has been there for three years. The school has been an amazing experience for her and I'm proud to say that she is excited to go to Kindergarten. She is confident, caring, wise and kind. She's learned how to express herself and problem solve. I'm absolutely certain that the socialization skills besides the academics she has been taught will serve her for the rest of her life. The teachers and the preschool director are so incredibly caring. Both my daughter and I have created life long friends at this school and I couldn't say more wonderful things. It's truly the best there is. read more

University Synagogue Pre-School - Preschools Near Me - Irvine, California

This is an incredible preschool. Our daughter has thrived under the loving care of the teachers at University Synagogue Pre-School. The environment fosters kindness, cooperation and joy in learning. Children learn through art and play, and the attention and encouragement of their teachers and peers. In our experience, all of the teachers are fantastic and devote themselves to the children. There is also a wealth of enrichment activities for the TK cohort of kids. I couldn't recommend more highly. read more

I cannot say enough about this wonderful place called University Synagogue pre school! Both of my girls attended this Pre-School so we have been blessed for 5 years to be part of this wonderful family! I said family because that is the feeling that you get when you walk through the door. The teachers and staff are amazing! One by one!! Heidi, The director of the pre school is absolutely wonderful. So loving and caring. If you are looking for a Pre-School for your child and you want your child to be loved and well taken care of - USPS is the right place for you! My girls will have the most wonderful memories from this place forever! Sincerely, Bella, Mika and Emma's mom. read more

We recently finished TK program for my son and I can't help but to share what a great experience it was. My son blossomed in this program. The principal, Ms Heidi, has such a smart mind and kind heart. She knows all the parents and created such a nurturing environment for the children. Our teachers were second to none: kind, firm, and attentive. They created an environment that formed friendships between the children and families. The staff were extremely supportive, available and accessible. They devised multiple enrichment programs throughout the week with instructors from the community that made the experience for the kids more dynamic and exciting. All in all, it has been one of the best things I have ever done for my son. Feeling so blessed that our family's path cross the University Synagauge Pre-School. read more

This summer I can give my review as a grandparent. During the school year , I am happy to say that I teach 3 year olds, 3 days a week. Our classroom is always a joyful place . This summer as I stopped by school for Shabbat or to take photographs. I am also the school "photographer "...a hobby I enjoy immensely. Documenting the happiness in this wonderful environment is always thrilling .I pass on the photos to the parents through e-mail so they can share in their child's day. On my visits , I witnessed a wonderful , innovative and healthy environment. This summers camp program included a flamingo guitarist, a bagpiper and a science and a bubble program. I also loved seeing our own Chef Ernie cooking with all the classes. Ernie incorporated books and learning with each lesson. A water pump week was particularly exciting. Children love water play and this was a fabulous opportunity. ( Pictures can be seen above ) read more

University Synagogue Pre-School - Graduation 2017.. Let's throw our hats in the air! - Preschools Near Me - Irvine, California

Hands down the best preschool we have ever encountered. The best teachers and most affectionate staff work here. Both our kids went to this preschool for few years and was so much fun and excitement for the little ones. They are all great and loving staff. Highly recommend to anyone who wants a wonderful experience for their kids. Heidi the director is amazing and really takes care of her school and the kids. read more

If you are looking for a high-quality, developmentally appropriate, enriching preschool program for your child than this is the school for you! I am absolutely thrilled with the education my 3 year old is getting at University Synagogue Preschool! He LOVES going to school and always is excited to tell me the fun things he did each day. In my former job, I got to see and work with ALL of the preschools in Irvine. I was in that position for 8 years and spent much time learning about the different preschool programs and their philosophies. When it came time to enroll my own child in a program, I didn't hesitate to enroll him at University Synagogue. I knew that this would be a place where he would develop all of the needed school readiness skills in all areas of development and where he would learn to love learning. As an educator, I am impressed with the knowledge and education that the teachers at this facility have. They value professional development and are constantly looking at how to improve their already terrific programming. I love that they teach children to learn through play and model appropriate peer interactions to foster self-esteem and promote social/emotional development. As a parent, I love that my son feels loved and cared for by the preschool staff. When I pick him up, he doesn't want to leave until he has hugged his teachers and the Director, Ms. Heidi. He feels safe at school and knows that the staff values him. They also make me, a parent, feel that way. It is an incredibly special place! Also, the preschool emails a weekly newsletter from the teachers letting us know what our children are learning about at school and they have a very talented photographer who is a teacher on staff there. She takes pictures daily and those are also emailed out to parents. It is so wonderful to receive a photograph of my son smiling and playing with his friends! In addition to the programming and staff, they have a fantastic play yard that includes a garden with fresh herbs that the children can help water, a sand area, huts for dramatic play, a separate area for cars and riding toys and a structure. My son calls it "the park" and asks to go there, even when it isn't a school day. There is so much variety to do out there! My son also loves the enrichments that the school offers each day. These enrichments are in addition to the regular programming, but are included for full time students aged 3 or up who wish to participate. They offer: Creative Dance or Clay Play on Mondays, Tae Kwon Do on Tuesdays, My Gym or Math Fun on Wednesdays, Sports on Thursdays and Cooking with Chef Ernie on Fridays. To me, this is the cherry on the cake of this school! My son is able to participate in all of these special activities each week, which frees up our Saturday from running to these types of classes. Also, the instructors are amazing! My son has learned so much and loves showing me what he is doing in the different enrichments. I HIGHLY recommend University Preschool! In addition to the wonderful staff and programming, they also teach Jewish values and principals. I love that my young child knows that it's a mitzvah to think of others and is learning the Shabbat traditions. However, if you are not Jewish, don't let that be a deterrent. All children are welcome at this school and everyone is made to feel included. My child is learning that everyone is special and that we should think of others and be kind. Who could ask for anything more? He is getting a well rounded education that is much more than ABC's and 123's. He is learning how to be a good person from people who truly love what they do. It is a fantastic place! read more

To say I love this school doesn't mean anything what means the most is how much my daughter loves this school. We placed her in the TK class at the start of the 2018 year and I wish on so many levels that I enrolled her when we first moved to Irvine. The educational aspect of the school is amazing and the care and love the teachers show the kids is just truly unbelievable. They know everybody by name and and all the kids are just purely happy on a daily basis. Heidi is amazing and I love the fast that she welcomes each and every kid to school during carpool and gives a hug and has the biggest smile on her face. You'd be so lucky to have your kids attend this warm, loving, educational school. I highly recommend taking your kids there. You won't be sorry!! read more

USPS is among the very best. I could not have asked for a better preschool for my 4 year old. They provided so much more than just academics. Even though we are not Jewish, we were accepted with open arms and always felt like a part of the family. They honor the uniqueness of every culture. Their principals and disciplines revolve around mutual respect , and mutual care for one another. Miss Heidi who runs the school is one of the kindest and most joyful people I have ever met. She and everybody else at the school, make the well being of each child, whether mental, emotional or physical top priority. I just wish the school went all the way through college. If I could give USPS 10 stars, I would. read more

University Synagogue Pre-School is an incredible place. My daughter has attended the school for about a year and a half. The teachers are warm and loving and really attend to each child and their individual needs. My daughter loves going to school. She talks about how much she loves her teachers and friends every day. Heidi, the director, is so wonderful. She is so enthusiastic and earthy and is incredibly communicative with the parents. My daughter attended preschool during the pandemic and Heidi was so careful. She let us know if anyone in the school even had a runny nose. She kept morale high while keeping everyone safe. This school was such a bright light for us during a very difficult year. Her teachers, Ms. Sue and Ms. Melody, created an environment that really nurtured and supported my daughter. We are moving to another state and I think I am going to miss this school more than anything else. It is a very very special place. read more

We LOVE University Synagogue Preschool! We relocated to SoCal a year ago, looking for a preschool for our 2 year-old. We were looking at other schools when a new friend told about the University Synagogue Preschool - both her boys graduated from it. Luckily, we were just in time as they had a couple of spots left for the 2 year old class. Our daughter loves this school, and so do we. The entire school staff is amazing. They know EACH child in the school - by name and their characters. They're caring and loving, and always there to give a hug, cheer up or listen - whatever your child needs at that moment. Our daughter developed incredible new skills there - creativity, language, emotional - she even teaches her 7-months-older niece new things, amazing our whole family! Her teachers are incredibly creative, making learning (shapes, sorting, colors, sizes, abc, emotional sensitivity and more) fun all the time. Whenever we'd drop by, sometimes at odd hours, we'd see our little girl incredibly happy and secure. I am so happy I found this preschool, and recommend it with all my heart. read more

University Synagogue Preschool has been an amazing experience for my daughter, and we are so grateful we found it. We started with Parent & Me classes in the Spring of 2017, which was an excellent way to meet the preschool director, Miss Heidi, and connect with other parents and kids. In Fall 2017, my daughter started in one of the 2-year old classrooms for 3 days a week. I was initially a little worried about sending her for full days so young, but she has thrived and blossomed there. The school days have a gentle structure, with the kids given lots of opportunities to explore, play and socialize with each other. They are exposed to counting and letters and other educational elements, but always in a playful and creative way. After the morning preschool, kids can stay for naps, enrichment classes (clay, dance, yoga, and more) and more play time. All of the teachers there are incredibly loving, supportive and responsible. They always seem delighted to see the kids in the morning and happy to share stories about what our daughter has been up to when we pick up in the afternoon. My husband is Jewish, so we appreciate all the exposure to Jewish cultural traditions, but there are also many kids who attend the school who are not Jewish. Miss Heidi works hard to create a joyful school experience both in the everyday experiences of the children and with special activities and visitors. Last year, the school brought in snow to sled on in the parking lot, hosted a live reptile petting zoo, built & planted a succulent garden in the outdoor space, and hosted numerous storytellers, puppet shows and other interactive events. On a daily basis, the kids engage in art, music, imaginative play, and so much more, with the teachers always coming up with new activities and themes to explore. My daughter also did camp at the school this summer and will be in one of the 3-year old classes in the Fall. We love this school! read more

University Synagogue Pre-School - Outdoor playtime - Preschools Near Me - Irvine, California

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This is a GREAT SCHOOL! From the Director, to Assistant Director to all of the teachers, my daughter had a great three years with Heidi and her team. This felt like a second family to my family. All of the teachers were loving and were great to all of the kids. read more

We have both of our sons at University Synagogue Pre-School now and we cannot say enough good about this wonderful school! Heidi is a warm, friendly school director who makes you feel like family from Day One. We adore and appreciate ALL the teachers and have been especially grateful that they have been able to run their summer camp and regular academic school year successfully thus far in-person during Covid, taking all safety precautions. The whole atmosphere is very friendly and accepting and it just feels like a big, loving family unit we trust and appreciate. We are so grateful to have found this school and we recommend it to anyone. read more

We cannot sing University Synagogue Preschool enough praises. Next to Disneyland, this preschool is the happiest place on earth. The amazing director Ms. Heidi has created a warm, joyful, inclusive, loving, compassionate, and fun learning environment and a welcoming community. Both our children loved attending the preschool and learned so much academically and socially. There are so many reasons to love this school. Here are a few: 1. The teachers are super attentive to each student's unique needs and spend lots of time with parents to help the child overcome their challenges in a supportive way. 2. There is a strong culture of kindness that is exuded by every teacher and passed down to the kids. 3. It is FUN and offers lots of enrichment programs to choose from, including music, dance, sports, math, cooking, yoga, Spanish, ceramics, and Hebrew. 4. We absolutely LOVED every single teacher our kids had, including Ms. Sue (2), Ms. Mindy (4 & 5), Ms. Linda (3 & 4), and in particular and most recently Ms. Dilani & Ms. Julia (5), the super amazing TK teachers who blew our minds with their beautiful art projects, gardening, lesson plans, etc. 5. We also love the Stay & Play (afternoon) teachers, including Ms. Farishta, Ms. Sheila, Ms. Jordana, Ms. Melody, and Ms. Pamela. 6. The children get a Jewish education that is compatible with science, inclusion, and equality. 7. During the pandemic, they quickly put together an engaging and varied daily program on Zoom, including such fun and enriching classes as morning chat & stretching, science, cooking, drawing, story time, etc. read more

We moved to Irvine from Israel in 2010, with 2.5 years old twins, we toured a few pre-schools, but the moment we entered University Synagogue Pre-School, we knew that this is the place for us. Heidi welcomed us with a warm smile, and we immediately felt at home. Our three children graduated USPS, and through the years we meet different teachers, and all of them were professional, loving and caring. USPS has been our second home since we moved. We highly recommend! read more

My grandson recently finished two years (preschool and TK) and two summer camp sessions at University Synagogue Pre-School. I feel compelled to write a review because I saw his progress and comfort at school and want to express my gratitude. I was welcomed to participate and shared with other grandparents and parents in weekly Shabbat services and other family activities. Staff always welcomed me to share my grandsons joy at frequently showing me his class and outdoor activities. The preschool Director, Heidi Kahn, is a treasure and directs the program with warmth, skill and compassion. The school and class sizes create a nurturing environment where the teachers, aides and children form a close community. This important aspect was notable throughout my grandsons time at the school, as well on our first visit. The curriculum is well balanced between emotional, social and academic development. There have been many enrichment activities from art, to fitness and fun, to learning Hebrew with Miss Iona, to yoga and dance, to live music and puppet performances to name a few. The children put on a number of excellent and fun dance and vocal performances that were perfect for their ages. Starting kindergarten this year, I'm sure my grandson is prepared for a great start and will feel confident in a new setting thanks to his teachers contributions and the love he felt at preschool. read more

I have been teaching music at this preschool for almost 10 years and I can truly say that this is where I would send my children if they were still young. The director Heidi Kahn has created a warm and loving environment not only for the children that attend but she offers her staff the same love and acceptance. It is a joy to come to work! Leslie V read more

We love USPS. Before I even start about the teachers, the program, the versatility of subjects our kids are exposed to, it feels like coming home. There is a real sense of community and Heidi, the amazing director sets that tone. We love how all the teachers, from all the classes knows our family by names. Very respectful communication between adults and kids. We love the open door policy. Our older son been here and started Kindergarten so prepared, happy and confident. Our other son still enjoying every minute of it and we are definitely will send our third child in the future. It's hard to leave that place. read more

This is an amazing pre school. The teachers are warm, nurturing and care so much about all the students. They get to know the kids and their families so well that it often feels like one big extended family. The environment is safe, loving and non stressful. The kids learn through play, art, music, building and dance just to name some ways. There are many activities for the kids to participate and learn from in the classroom, and enrichment classes are also offered after school. Some enrichment classes include my gym which comes to the school weekly. I am constantly impressed with the different experiences and resources that my child gets to have and is exposed to everyday. My older son who was very shy was in a 3 day 3 year old class. He thrived socially from the safe and thoughtful environment that was provided by his teachers. The following year he was in the TK class where he made close friends and grew academically and was very well prepared for kindergarten. The way that his teachers taught through art was incredible and a lasting experience for him and our family. These teachers care so much and the school caters to the whole child and all the experiences of what I would want early childhood to be for my kids in a school. This includes so many different kinds of play and even a garden outside that is constantly growing new things! My younger son is now in the pre k program and loves to go everyday. He has a lot of food allergies and health concerns and we are being supported and accommodated in every way. The school is very diverse and inclusive. Having moved to the OC from the east coast 3.5 years ago we found many of our first friends here at the school and many of our closest friends remain the families of my older son's friends. The entire school community really works together to make it successful for the students. Many years the parents are able to fund raise in order to get a snow day for the school where a portion of the outdoor play space is covered in snow! If you are curious about the school I would call to see the school and meet the director Heidi. You will know upon being in the school if it is the right place for your family. I felt it upon walking into the school and visualizing my kids in the outdoor play space. read more

It is with great pleasure that I write the strongest possible endorsement of University Synagogue Preschool. After 10 (!) consecutive years at the preschool, we were sad to graduate our youngest child in June and to leave our preschool family. My husband and I have had 3 children go through the entire University Synagogue Preschool program, starting with Parent and Me at a few months old, through the Transitional Kindergarten. The preschool is headed by the absolutely wonderful director Ms. Heidi Kahn. Heidi is the soul of the preschool- she knows every child, every parent, every sibling, grandparent and the list goes on. Heidi is always available to help with challenging situations and the first to inform you if your child is sick or just having a bad day. If Heidi is the soul of the school, the teachers are the heart. Warm and loving, yet firm and consistent, the teachers cultivate a classroom environment where every child can thrive, develop friends, and learn. The play-based curriculum allows children to learn through experience, not worksheets. My children would frequently always arrive at school and be in awe of the exciting decorations, toys, and experiences planned for that day. In addition to daily activities, the preschool regularly featured performers, visiting speakers, and traveling exhibits. There is even a yearly "snow day" when the playground is transformed into a winter wonderland with real snow! The preschool has large, clean, and engaging facilities. There is a spacious yard with a full playground, an enormous sandbox, a garden that the children maintain, a "parking lot" for ride-on toys, and much more. The classrooms are sunny and well-lit and they are constantly changing as the teachers and students proudly display their work. As a working parent, I value both flexibility and value. At University Synagogue, I enjoyed flexible afternoon pick up times. The preschool also allows drop-ins, which made occasional early work mornings possible! The afternoon program should be considered as one of preschool's biggest attractions. With different enrichments every day, you don't have to drive your child to different sports/camps. They come right to him/her at school! University Synagogue Preschool has been like a second home to my children and my family. It is the place where I brought my babies in my arms and the place where they graduated as eager kindergarteners. I hope you consider it for yours too. read more

Finding this amazing pre-school has truly enriched our lives; more than I could ever put into words. Our family is not Jewish and you don't have to be to have your child and family welcomed with open arms to attend preschool there. From my first meeting with Ms. Heidi I knew that she ran a school that was filled with kindness and positivity. My son attended the preschool for 3 years starting off part time and then the year before kindergarten he went 5 days per week and participated in the math enrichment, cooking class, and taekwondo. He loved every single minute of the day there and begged me to enroll him in Stay & Play so he could be there until 6pm. He didn't want to miss any fun time. I am so grateful to Ms. Heidi and the wonderful teachers for loving my son, teaching him kindness, and instilling in him valuable and positive learning skills. I highly recommend scheduling a tour at this lovely school. It is the best in Irvine! read more

University Synagogue Pre-school is exactly what we wanted for our toddler. The education, warmth, professionalism, creativity, and overall positivity create the perfect environment for my child to grow, develop, and have lots of fun. The staff goes above and beyond for those kids. read more

The teachers in University Synagogue Preschool sometimes seem to know our kids better than we do. This place has a professional, energetic and talented staff that love what they do. The previous preschools our kids have been to feel like child-aquariums in comparison. The curriculum is rich and dynamic as the teachers keep it fresh on a weekly basis with themes, special activities and involving many parents in all kinds of in-class enrichment. read more

University Synagogue Preschool is wonderful. Our daughter started attending when she was 2 and just graduated in the spring. We just moved out of state and we are so sad that our little one will not have the University experience. The staff are amazing. So warm, so friendly, so welcoming. Heidi, the preschool director is the BEST! Her love and dedication to the kids and the school is unmatched. Great activities, great programs, and great special events. My daughter grew and learned so much during her time there. She absolutely loved going to school everyday. She is strong, confident and outgoing and we definitely have the school to thank for that. As a family we made such wonderful friends that our daughter wasn't the only one who benefitted from the experience. One of the best schools around!! read more

We toured multiple preschools in Irvine and with University Synagogue Preschool, we could tell right away that the teachers (and school director) were all so loving, kind, and genuine. From the gardening to the education to daily art, and fun activities (including snow day!), we knew this was going to be the place for our child. We watched our son's knowledge grow every day, as well as his artistic, musical, and social skills. He has made great friendships, even though we started at the school later than some of the other families. I like that you can get as involved with the school as you have time for. As a parent, if you want to be heavily involved, there's a place for you. If you work full time, and you can only participate every now-and-then, there's a place for you. Our son made so many friends and loved his teachers so much, he wanted to go to the school for summer camp as well. We are both working parents and know that our son is in the best hands. You will love all that University Synagogue Preschool has to offer! read more

We love University Synagogue Pre-school! My daughter attended the school for two years. Initially we lived in Irvine, I toured at 6 different preschools in the area and fell in love with the warm, loving environment at University. We are not Jewish but my daughter loved participating in all of the Jewish holiday activities and it was a great experience to learn about another faith. After her first year we moved to Laguna Niguel and switched to a preschool near our home but it just wasn't the same. She was not as happy as she was at University Synagogue. So we decided to take the drive back up to Irvine for the following year. My daughter is now in public school and doing great! We miss University Synagogue so much but are SO grateful for the wonderful experience she had. read more