While terms may vary, the core mission of transitional kindergarten and pre-k is the same: preparing children for kindergarten.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Preschool serves younger children (typically ages 2–4) and focuses on foundational learning through play.
• Transitional kindergarten and pre-k / kindergarten prep are more structured programs tailored to children who are nearing kindergarten age.
• Public transitional kindergarten programs may follow modified kindergarten standards and are typically state funded.
• Bright Horizons’ kindergarten prep follows a research-based, age-appropriate curriculum that mirrors the developmental goals of transitional kindergarten — with added flexibility and individualized attention.

Yes! We partner with Children's Menu to offer a range of healthy lunch options for the children, for more information and pricing please click on the link below! 

http://childrensmenu.com/

Yes, The Academy at Manhattan Beach has an open door policy. You are encouraged to visit your child anytime.

Full Day Program is 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

AM Half Day Program is 7:30 AM - 12:30 PM

PM Half Day Program is 12:30-5:30 PM

Our Preschool curriculum is uniquely designed to engage children in active learning that prepares them for school while helping them achieve their individual potential and fostering a spirit of community. It includes curriculum elements such as Literacy and Language Development, Math/Science Exploration, Art Projects, Enrichment Opportunities, Fine and Gross Motor Development, as well as Basic Skills.

We incorporate enrichment opportunities into our daily activities including cooking, gardening, STEM, dance, yoga pretzels, Inner Explorer mindfulness program, spanish and sign language in our youngest two's room. Ages three and up have access to the STEM lab, and we have a fun gym room accessible to every age group. 

We are open year round and have rolling admissions.

Yes, The Academy at Manhattan Beach has onsite parking for drop off and pick up.

Children can start as early as the age of 2.

All teachers at The Academy at Manhattan Beach either hold a Bachelor's Degree or above in Child Development or related field, their master teaching permit or AA in Early Childhood Education and are CPR and First Aid certified.

For job listings and to complete the application process, please visit www.brighthorizons.com/careers.

• Start by selecting the Find a Center link on this page.
• Under the center you’re interested in, click the Tuition & Openings button.
• Then, select Schedule Your Visit and fill out the form.

This depends on your child’s age, temperament, and level of maturity. General tips for preparing for the first day of child care include:  

Please submit an inquiry to your center(s) of interest with a request for tuition information. We recommend scheduling a visit at the same time (this can be done on the same form).

Safety is our top priority, and it’s part of our everyday routine. All of our centers follow expert-informed health, safety, and security policies and allergy protocols. Additionally, health, safety, and wellness are built right into our curriculum, and our classrooms and spaces are safely designed for learning and exploration.