About
TOPS - The Orinda Preschool offers a play-based school program with self-directed play, a mixed-age preschool model, and an outdoor classroom that is integral to all programs. It includes Twos for children ages 2 to 3 years, where children explore and create, and Preschool for ages 3 to 5 years, where 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds learn together.
Programs
- Twos (2-3yrs.) — 2-3 years · First school experience; children explore and create in a setting designed for two-to-three year olds.
- Preschool (3-5 yrs.) — 3-5 years · Mixed-age classroom model where 3, 4, and 5-year-olds learn together in an intentionally designed community.
- Summer Program — School session with an emphasis on outdoor play.
At a glance
- Ages: 2–5 years old
- General schedule: Play-based school with self-directed play; mixed-age preschool model; outdoor classroom is integral to all programs.
About the provider
TOPS has provided play-based education for preschoolers since 1938. It was first established in 1938 as a private school for supervised play and became a licensed program in 1943. The program says it is committed to high quality early childhood education programs and notes reduced class sizes, a smaller teacher-to-student ratio, regular sanitization and hand washing, and health standards.
- Lunch Bunch ONLY — Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 12:00pm - 12:30pm · $16 per day
- Lunch Bunch + Playgroup — Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday 12:00pm - 2:30pm · $45 per day · Available to students enrolled in the Preschool Short Day program.
Applying is easy; families are encouraged to tour prior to applying. Waitlist application fee is mentioned. Reduced class sizes, smaller teacher-to-student ratio, regular sanitization/hand washing, and health standards are stated.
Last updated September 18, 2026.
Is this your business? There is no cost, but you will be asked to sign up or log in.