We serve children ages 18 months to 4 years in San Leandro, CA. Come see what makes us different.
Play Pals Early Learning Program values diversity, embracing unique needs with a curriculum that adapts to your child
The play-based Reggio-inspired environment encourages multiple ways for your child to learn and grow
Teachers cater to diverse needs, providing a space where children with all abilities are included and supported
Play Pals is an inclusive preschool and daycare in San Leandro where children of all abilities learn together.
Whether your child is neurotypical or has speech delays or other developmental needs, Play Pals provides a nurturing environment with personalized support.
For families seeking daycare for children with speech delays, Play Pals offers something rare: onsite speech therapy during the school day.
Your child receives support without leaving the classroom for separate appointments.
Therapy is woven into their learning experience.
“Play Pals program has been LIFE CHANGING… the best part is she LOVES the program and her teachers.”
-Grace B.
“The staff goes above and beyond to to be inclusive, we've loved our time spent with Claire and staff.”
Jessica V.
“Where do I even begin? I am so happy my husband and I enrolled our daughter in this program.”
-Andrea R.
Caterpillars — Toddler Track (Ages 18 Months to 3 Years)
Big curiosity, little hands, and endless possibilities. In our Caterpillars classroom, children discover the world through sensory play, nature exploration, and open-ended materials that invite creativity and wonder. Our teachers follow each child’s lead — because at this age, play is everything.
Butterflies — Preschool Track (Ages 3 to 4 Years)
Creative, curious, and ready to grow — our Butterflies children dive deeper into child-led projects, peer relationships, and the kind of learning that sticks. Guided by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, our emergent curriculum means no two days look the same.
Both Programs Include
At Play Pals, we believe children are natural learners — capable, curious, and full of ideas.
The Reggio Emilia philosophy guides everything we do: from the way we set up our classroom to the way we listen to children and document their learning.
Our emergent curriculum is child-led, meaning we follow the children’s interests and questions to shape experiences that are meaningful and joyful. We work with natural materials, open-ended play, and outdoor exploration to nurture creativity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. Inclusion is woven into everything we do.
Play Pals believes that every child deserves a learning experience that celebrates their interests and abilities. We’ve created a nurturing, inclusive setting with a high adult-to-child ratio and personalized support.
Research shows inclusion benefits everyone:
As a Reggio-inspired program, Play Pals creates co-learning environments where teachers have a lateral relationship with children rather than a hierarchical one. We view all children as competent, capable learners and individuals.
Book a tour time through the website or contact us to discuss your child’s needs
Attend Two Play Dates
Bring your child and stay with them for a period of time at Play Pals
Complete Application
If we are in agreement that Play Pals is a great fit for your child, complete an application
Prepare for Day One
Pack your child's lunch, reusable water bottle, and sleeping bag
Now Enrolling for Fall 2026
Limited spots available for our Caterpillars (Toddler) and Butterflies (Preschool) tracks. We’d love to meet your family — schedule a tour to get started.
We accept Tuition Vouchers from: Bananas, 4C’s, Hively & Davis Street
Yes. Play Pals Preschool offers inclusive daycare for children with speech delays in San Leandro. Play Pals is the only preschool in the area with onsite speech therapy, so children receive integrated support without leaving the classroom or disrupting their learning day.
An inclusive preschool serves children with and without disabilities together in the same classroom. At Play Pals, neurotypical children and those with developmental delays learn side-by-side. Research shows this benefits everyone—neurotypical children develop increased empathy, while children with delays show improved language and social skills.
Yes. Play Pals offers onsite speech therapy and ABA services for children who need additional support. Unlike traditional preschools where children leave for therapy appointments, Play Pals' licensed therapists work within the classroom setting during the school day.
Play Pals serves children from 18 months through preschool age. The Toddler Program accepts children 18 to 36 months old, and the Preschool Program serves children 3 years and up. Both programs are located in San Leandro and offer the same inclusive, Reggio-inspired approach.
Play Pals functions as both. Families get the convenience of full-day childcare combined with a Reggio-inspired preschool curriculum. Play Pals also offers integrated therapy services for children who need speech therapy or ABA support—something most daycares and preschools can't provide.
Yes. Play Pals Preschool in San Leandro specializes in inclusive education for children with speech delays. Play Pals is the only local preschool with onsite speech therapy, so children receive support during the school day without leaving for separate appointments.
Location: San Leandro, CA
Hours:
Tuition: $750 – $2,200/month depending on schedule
CA Facility #015700598
Take the first step towards finding a more affirming community by booking a tour. Look forward to celebrating your child’s personal achievements and joyful learning experiences at Play Pals!
