Tender Learning Care is a privately owned, tuition funded preschool and childcare program, licensed by the state of California.
The goal of Tender Learning Care is to provide a safe, nurturing environment for children, giving each child individual attention, affection, comfort, understanding and opportunities for learning in an environment free from frustration and pressure.
Children leave Tender Learning Care with an outstanding foundation for excelling in the public schools. California DSS License 570310353.
Quick Facts (2025)
- Top Ranked CA School
- School Type: Early Childhood / Day Care
- Grades: Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
- Enrollment: 20 students
- Yearly Tuition: $1,190
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Tender Learning Care ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
Category
Attribute
Affordability
Advanced Degrees
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Year Founded
1982
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
Last Day of School
Wed. Dec 31, 2025
Campus Size
2
Student Body
Total Students
20 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
22%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
4 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
5:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
100%
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
% on Financial Aid
30%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$1,190
Application URL
School Notes
- School Motto: Where children grow in confidence through REAL accomplishment
- As co-owner with her husband John and director of Tender Learning Care at Stonegate, Shirley Huddleson brings twenty years of experience as a public school teacher, including 13 years in Davis schools, and over 43 years as a preschool owner and director, as well as many unique Davis experiences to our clients. Shirley has a lifetime teaching credential for California public schools and in addition to being a former member of Delta Kappa Gamma, an international honor society for outstanding teachers, Shirley helped the Davis communityre-open Fairfield School, a "one room" school. Under Shirley's guidance, Fairfield School became a successful, well recognized asset to the Davis School District. Shirley has personally screened our highly qualified staff, which includes certified public school teachers, preschool teachers and teachers' assistants. All of our teachers are cleared through the California Department of Justice and all have received CPR and first-aid training. Two of our teachers were also members of the Delta Kappa Gamma honor society: Jennifer, who has been with us for over 25 years (since May of 1999) and Usha, who also joined us over 25 years ago, in January of 2000.TLC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry or special needs. Children with special needs are accepted by the school based on our capability to provide support beneficial to the child; we are very happy to enroll children with special needs and are experienced in their care. TLC accepts children from two years old through 6 years old.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Tender Learning Care cost?
Tender Learning Care's tuition is approximately $1,190 for private students.
What is Tender Learning Care's ranking?
Tender Learning Care ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Least expensive tuition and Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.
When is the application deadline for Tender Learning Care?
The application deadline for Tender Learning Care is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Tender Learning Care located?
Tender Learning Care is located in the Stonegate neighborhood of Davis, CA.
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