About
Growing Place offers small-group work, outdoor play, meals, rest, and time to explore together. The program also offers an infant program, toddler program, preschool program, TK program, and a Parent & Me program for babies and toddlers and their grown-ups.
Programs
- Infant program — 3 months to 6 years · $2,625–$2,835 per month
- Toddler program — 3 months to 6 years · $2,625–$2,835 per month
- Preschool program — 3 months to 6 years · $2,625–$2,835 per month
- TK program — 3 months to 6 years · $2,625–$2,835 per month
- Parent & Me program — babies and toddlers and their grown-ups · A class for babies and toddlers and their grown-ups.
At a glance
- Ages: 0–6 years old
- Price range: $2,625–$2,835 per month
- General schedule: A steady rhythm of small-group work, outdoor play, meals and rest. 8:30 to 12:00 small groups and play; 12:00 to 2:30 meals and rest; 2:30 to 4:30 explore together; 4:30 to 5:00 reunite with family.
- Facility hours: Mon-Fri, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
About the provider
Growing Place is a nonprofit, NAEYC-accredited, Reggio-inspired early childhood program. In 1985, founder Ellen Khokha pioneered a high-quality early childhood program, and the school has grown into three campuses. It was developed with Santa Monica College and the City of Santa Monica, and it was selected to operate the Santa Monica Early Childhood Lab School.
A free tour is recommended but not required. Touring does not start an application. The application fee is $100 per campus or $300 to apply to all three. Tuition assistance eligibility requires Santa Monica residency, full-time employment, and financial need. Reduced tuition may be available for low-income families. The program excludes support for the Ocean Park Campus. Both parents must present financial information. Single parents must present proof of sole legal custody.
What families say
“Growing Place has been one of the greatest gifts our family has ever received. As a single working mother, Growing Place has given me the freedom, flexibility, and confidence to run a non-profit organization knowing my son spends his days in truly the happiest place.” — Kristen, Alumni Parent
Last updated October 31, 2026.
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