Discovering the fun in learning
A Community Preschool Since 1976
Since 1976, Stepping Stone Preschool has been a trusted Burlingame preschool where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. Our nurturing environment and play-based program help little ones grow socially and academically, while building the confidence, skills, and foundation they need for those early school years.
Flexible Programs for Children Ages 2–5
Bay Area families juggle work and home in many ways, and Stepping Stone Pre-K offers programs to fit your needs. Whether you work full-time, are a stay-at-home parent, or fall somewhere in between, our play-based preschool programs create opportunities for:
- Full-time and part-time preschool schedules
- Low teacher-to-child ratio (1:8)
- Indoor and outdoor creative spaces
At Stepping Stone, we know every child is on their own journey, including potty training. To support their growth, children should begin potty training at home and be able to wear cloth underwear daily. Our staff works alongside families to keep consistent routines, and help them build confidence and independence at every step of the way.
Confidently Ready for the Next Step
At Stepping Stone, our play-based curriculum builds both academic skills and social emotional development in early childhood, giving children the foundation needed for a smooth transition into Transitional Kindergarten (TK), Pre-K, or Kindergarten.
Our nurturing preschool environment promotes socialization, helping children learn to share, communicate, and build new friendships. Through hands-on activities, supportive teachers, and engaging indoor and outdoor play, children gain:
Certified Teachers and Trusted Care
Stepping Stone is more than a fun place to make friends — we’re a fully licensed preschool committed to keeping our children safe and supported.
Our certified teachers give each child the attention they need, and every employee and volunteer completes a background check and security screening to ensure a trusted, caring space for learning and growth.
From Our Families
See what our families love about Stepping Stone:
Q: How does Stepping Stone help prepare my child for transitional kindergarten?
Stepping Stone helps prepare children for TK by guiding social-emotional growth through play and group activities. Our approach fosters independence, builds curiosity, and helps children adjust to a more structured environment. This early exposure gives children a head start in both social interaction and academic success.
Q: When should my child start preschool?
Some families choose a preschool for 2 year olds to transition them to more gentle routines, while others wait for a preschool for 3 year olds with more structured learning. At Stepping Stone we welcome children ages 2-5, meeting each child where they are, and supporting growth at every stage through our play-based programs.
Q: What is play-based learning?
Play-based learning encourages child-led exploration, creativity and social interaction, while learning through hands-on experience and their own emerging interests. At Stepping Stone, our play-based preschool curriculum values flexibility and freedom, giving our certified teachers the ability to support each child at their unique pace and learning style.