Meadowlark Schools is a nature play-based preschool in Stockton, CA, where children learn through play, exploration, and daily connection with the natural world. Our Stockton campus is now open, bringing our celebrated head, hands, and heart approach to families across the community. If you are searching for a preschool in Stockton that nurtures the whole child, we invite you to explore our programs and schedule a tour.
Nature Play-Based Learning at Our Stockton Campus
At Meadowlark, nature is not an occasional activity. It is the heart of how children learn. Children spend meaningful time outdoors in all seasons, using natural spaces and materials to build, create, and discover. Teachers guide this child-led play, weaving early literacy, math, and science into real, hands-on experiences.
Our approach embraces a few core ideas: child-led exploration, learning with natural materials, healthy risk-taking, and a deep respect for each child's individuality. The result is a warm, engaging environment where children grow into confident, curious, and resilient learners. You can read more about our approach to nature and see how it comes to life each day.
Our Programs by Age
Our Stockton campus serves children from 6 weeks to 6 years, spanning infant, toddler, and preschool ages. Each program is designed for the developmental needs of that stage while sharing the same nature play-based philosophy.
- Infants and toddlers: nurturing, relationship-driven care with responsive routines and plenty of sensory exploration.
- Preschool and pre-K: child-led play, outdoor learning, gardening, and gentle preparation for kindergarten.
To keep attention individualized, our teacher-to-child ratios range from 1:4 in our youngest classrooms to 1:12 in our oldest. You can learn more on our programs page.
Why Stockton Families Choose Meadowlark
Families across our program consistently point to a few things that set Meadowlark apart:
- Daily time outdoors, in rain or shine, building resilience and a love of nature.
- A whole-child focus that supports emotional and social growth alongside academics.
- Family-feel classrooms led by educators who build genuine relationships with each child.
- Farm-to-classroom connections, including gardening and healthy, whole-food snacks.
- A trusted reputation, with Meadowlark voted Best of San Benito County for five consecutive years (2021 to 2026) as we bring the same care to Stockton.
Snacks are provided each morning and afternoon, with an emphasis on whole, natural foods, and families provide lunch from home. We stay closely connected with parents through daily exchanges and the Brightwheel app.
A Typical Day at Our Stockton Campus
Every day flows a little differently, following the children's interests, but our rhythm gives families a helpful picture. Mornings begin with arrival and open exploration, followed by a circle that builds community. Children then move into extended outdoor time in our natural play spaces and garden, where much of the real learning happens.
After a family-style lunch and a rest period, afternoons bring more hands-on activities, often outdoors again, before a closing circle and departure. This balance of active and quiet, indoor and outdoor, and individual and group time helps children stay engaged, regulated, and ready to learn.
What Meadowlark Families Say
"We absolutely love Meadowlark preschool. From the moment we walked in, we felt the warmth and knew the environment is nurturing, safe, and full of engaging activities that spark curiosity and creativity. Our child has blossomed socially, developed strong communication skills, confidence, and a love for learning." Meadowlark Parent
"The teachers are incredibly patient, kind, and dedicated to each child's individual growth. The curriculum is well-balanced, offering a great mix of structured learning, creative play, and social development. It's clear that the staff truly cares about each child's wellbeing." Meadowlark Parent
Tuition and Financial Assistance
Tuition varies based on your child's age, schedule, and campus, so we invite you to contact our office for current rates. We serve both self-pay families and families participating in subsidy programs.
For Stockton families, we work with subsidy programs including CalWORKs and the San Joaquin County Family Resource & Referral Center, and our team can help you understand eligibility and walk through the application process. Learn more about the financial assistance programs we accept.
Visit Our Stockton Campus
The best way to understand our approach is to see it in person. During a tour, you can watch our nature play-based program in action, meet our teaching team, and ask questions about enrollment.
- Address: 2295 E. Fremont St., Suite D, Stockton, CA 95205
- Phone: (209) 792-6177
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm
- Enrollment options: full-day and half-day (half-day spaces are very limited)
- License #: 394501612
Ready to see it for yourself? Schedule a tour today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Meadowlark's Stockton campus located?
Our Stockton campus is at 2295 E. Fremont St., Suite D, Stockton, CA 95205. You can reach us at (209) 792-6177.
What ages does the Stockton campus serve?
The Stockton campus serves children from 6 weeks to 6 years, including infant, toddler, and preschool ages.
What are your hours?
We are open Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm, with full-day and half-day options. Half-day spaces are limited.
Do you accept childcare subsidies?
Yes. We work with subsidy programs, including CalWORKs and San Joaquin County child care resources, and our staff can help you determine eligibility and complete the application process.
How do I enroll or schedule a tour?
The easiest way to begin is to contact our office to schedule a tour. You can also learn more about our campus on the Stockton campus page.
Give Your Child Room to Grow
At Meadowlark Schools, we nurture the whole child through meaningful, nature play-based learning that lays the foundation for a lifelong love of discovery. If you are looking for a preschool in Stockton that lets your child explore, play, and thrive, we would love to meet your family. Reach out to schedule your tour today.