Ranked among the top 10 childcare centers in Monterey. Fewer than half of all centers in the city reach this level across our full 11-dimension scoring.
Full Ranking Detail
childcarepreschooltoddler
Teddy Bear Preschool is a privately owned Monterey center serving children ages 24 months through kindergarten, operating continuously since 1999 under CCLD License #274403544 with capacity for 44 children. Founded by Jana Lamarque with over 25 years of childcare experience on the Peninsula, the center offers flexible full-time and part-time scheduling, drop-in care, and summer camp—uncommon features for families with irregular needs. Parent reviews on Yelp consistently praise the staff as accommodating and friendly, and the curriculum integrates music, art, cooking, science, gardening, math, and language through an active learning model. Tuition ranges $380–$910 per month depending on schedule. Notably, CCLD inspections since March 2026 have resulted in three Type B citations and ongoing complaint investigations; prospective families should review these records carefully before enrolling, and the absence of an infant program limits options for younger siblings.
Safety5.0
Curriculum6.0
Art / Music6.0
Infant care3.0
Kindergarten readiness5.0
Teacher quality6.0
Compassion6.0
Management5.0
Culture6.0
Extracurriculars5.0
Programs & curriculum
Curriculum & approach: Active Learning in a Creative Environment. Focuses on innovation, current research-based practices, creativity and love with an understanding that childcare should be unique, energetic, creative, and loving.
Programs & activities: Flexible scheduling with customizable combinations of mornings, afternoons, half-days, or full-days. Programs developed based on parent and family needs.
What sets it apart: Founded in May 1999 by owner Jana Lamarque, who has over 25 years of experience working with children on the Monterey Peninsula. Parent-centered approach with flexible scheduling arrangements.
Recognition of Excellence — Website Badge
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Top 10 in Monterey
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<strong style="display:block;font-size:15px;color:#1A1A18;margin-bottom:5px;">Top 10 in Monterey</strong>
<span style="font-size:13px;color:#4A4A46;line-height:1.5;">Ranked among the top 10 childcare centers in Monterey. Fewer than half of all centers in the city reach this level across our full 11-dimension scoring.</span>
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This recognition is awarded independently by Creative Minds Montessori based on publicly available parent reviews and public records. Centers do not pay for or request these rankings. Scores reflect editorial synthesis of verified parent experience — not center marketing materials. Rankings are updated periodically as new reviews are analyzed.
