Hearts at Play
University Parents Nursery School
A NAEYC-accredited cooperative preschool in Los Angeles where children ages 18 months to 4 years develop the whole child — social, emotional, physical, creative, and cognitive.
Why Families Choose Us
The UPNS Difference
We combine heart, expertise, and joy to give every child the very best start in life.
Experienced Educators
Every classroom is led by certified early childhood professionals who are passionate about each child's individual growth and development.
NAEYC Accredited
We hold accreditation from the National Association for the Education of the Young Child — the gold standard in early childhood education quality.
Whole Child Curriculum
Our play-based approach nurtures all five selves: social, emotional, physical, creative, and cognitive — helping children develop completely.
Small Class Sizes
With only 10–15 children per classroom, every child receives the individual attention and meaningful relationships they deserve.
Our Classrooms
A Classroom for Every Stage
Age-appropriate environments and curricula designed to meet children exactly where they are.
Kitten Room
18 months – 2 years
Gentle, exploratory days in a warm home-like setting. Focused on sensory play, language development, early social skills, and loving independence.
Kangaroo Room
3 years
Expanding vocabulary, imaginative play, pre-literacy foundations, and cooperative activities that build confidence and curiosity.
Dolphin Room
4 years
Kindergarten preparation through project-based learning, advanced literacy, STEM foundations, and leadership opportunities.
Our Mission
“Help children develop the whole child.”
At UPNS, we nurture five interconnected selves in every child: social, emotional, physical, creative, and cognitive. This holistic philosophy guides everything we do.
Our Philosophy
We See the Whole Child
University Parents Nursery School believes the early years are the most formative in a child's life. Our holistic approach nurtures intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development in equal measure.
We create a joyful, inclusive classroom community where children feel seen, heard, and empowered to take risks, ask questions, and celebrate each other's successes every single day. “Hearts at Play” isn't just our tagline — it's the spirit that lives in every UPNS classroom.
More Than a School —
A Community
UPNS is a cooperative preschool, which means parents are active members who help run the school. You're not just dropping your child off — you're joining a warm community of families who share in the joy of early childhood education.
Learn About MembershipFamily Stories
What Families Are Saying
“UPNS has been the most wonderful experience for our family. Emma has blossomed into a confident, curious little girl. The teachers truly know each child as an individual, and the co-op community has become like a second family.”
“Being a co-op parent was something we were unsure about at first, but it turned out to be the best part. We get to see Noah's world firsthand, and the community of families we've met is incredible.”
“The Kitten Room was perfect for Arya's gentle transition into school. The teachers were so patient and nurturing. UPNS's cooperative model means I always know exactly what's happening in the classroom.”
Life at UPNS
A Peek Inside Our Classrooms
Every day is filled with laughter, discovery, and creative joy.
Join Our Community
Ready to Join Our Community?
Learn about enrollment at UPNS — from application to cooperative membership. We'd love to welcome your family.
Learn About EnrollmentReady to Schedule a Visit?
Tours are available Monday through Friday. We'd love to show you around and answer all your questions about UPNS and cooperative preschool.