A neighborhood academy run by people who are actually here
Learn N' Play Academy opened on Montrose Court because El Cajon families kept asking for something better: a center small enough to feel personal, with the structure and cleanliness of a much bigger school. Our director is on the floor every single day, greeting children by name and knowing exactly how their week is going.
Three things we never compromise on
Treated like family
Every teacher learns your child's name, quirks, comfort items, and favorite songs in the first week. Families tell us it feels like dropping off with a relative.
Safety without shortcuts
Keypad entry, authorized-pickup logs, background-checked staff, CPR and first-aid certification, and a center that is sanitized top to bottom every day.
Learning through play
Children discover letters, numbers, science, and empathy through art, music, sensory play, and outdoor movement — not worksheets.
Ms. Jiovanna and a team parents name by heart
Read our reviews and you'll notice something unusual: parents thank teachers by name — Ms. Jio, Ms. Abril, Ms. Daniela, Ms. Xiomara, Ms. Abby. That's because our staff stay. Low turnover means your infant's teacher is often still the familiar face waving at them in the preschool hallway two years later.
Every teacher is background-checked, CPR and first-aid certified, and trained in early childhood development, with ongoing training throughout the year.
What El Cajon parents tell us
“Third time's the charm — I toured two other places in El Cajon before this one. Ms. Jiovanna, Ms. Abril, Ms. Daniela, and Ms. Xiomara made us feel welcome and my baby is treated like family. The center is spotless and they communicate constantly. 10/10.”
“They are amazing teachers and the director is wonderful. I feel confident leaving my child in their care and they let me know of any updates. Very loving and caring environment — my daughter loves going to preschool here.”
“I highly recommend this preschool! My sister is in Ms. Abby's class and we couldn't be happier. Ms. Abby is incredibly sweet, patient, and caring — she genuinely loves her students.”
“Our daughter has been coming since a few months after they opened. Since she was an infant she has had nothing but the best care, and the director goes above and beyond. Her development has flourished here.”
“The staff goes above and beyond! Everyone genuinely cares about your kids and their safety. My daughter has learned so much, and they send updates all the time on how she's doing.”
“A safe, clean, and welcoming environment with warm, attentive teachers who genuinely care about each child. The classrooms and play areas are well maintained and the curriculum is engaging.”
“The teachers are warm and welcoming and always good with the children. My child has grown a lot here, and I feel very safe at drop-off since you need a code to get into the building.”
“Learn N' Play Academy is the only daycare I could trust with my son. The facility is super clean, always. The measures Ms. Jio takes to keep our littles safe are amazing — this place has kept my mind at ease.”
“Highly recommendable! My two children always have a great time here. All staff are very nice and attentive to the children's needs, and this is the cleanest academy I've ever seen.”
Come meet the team in person
The best way to know if we're the right fit is to walk the halls with us. Tours are available Monday through Friday.