The Playgarden by the Sea preschool and Kindergarten is located just two blocks from the beach and is a perfect place for children to explore, grow and create.
We have the first Ocean Forest Kindergarten which is the first in the South East US and is a 100% outdoor nature program.
We focus on the whole child, head, heart and hands. Our literacy rich curriculum includes play, music, poetry, movement, bread-baking, gardening, painting, and frequent walks to the beach.
We are a LifeWays representative site inspired by Waldorf traditions.
Quick Facts (2025)
- School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
- Grades: Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
- Enrollment: 78 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
Year Founded
1995
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
Student Body
Total Students
78 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
10%
State avg.: 47%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
8 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
10:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
2%
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
% on Financial Aid
20%
Admissions Director
Laura Cruz
Admissions Associate
Laura Cruz
School Notes
- The Playgarden is a Jacksonville Beach pre-school and kindergarten located just blocks from the beach. Itis a perfect place for children preschoolto kindergartento explore, grow, and create. We also have the first Ocean Forest Preschool program that is 100% emersed in nature rain or shine.
- In early childhood, daily life experience is the "curriculum".The child`s relationships to the caregivers and to the environment are the two most important aspects through which the child can experience healthy life rhythms androutines. These include the "nurturing arts" of rest and play, regular meal times, exploring nature, practical/domestic activities, social creativity, music, and simple artistic activities. The Playgarden is aLifeWays of North Americarepresentative site, the first in Florida. We also offer the first Forest Kindergartenprogram in the southeast US. We continue to grow the Jacksonville Beach pre-school, Jacksonville Beach kindergartenand Ponte Vedra pre-school communities.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
Does The Playgarden By The Sea offer a summer program?
Yes, The Playgarden By The Sea offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
When is the application deadline for The Playgarden By The Sea?
The application deadline for The Playgarden By The Sea is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is The Playgarden By The Sea located?
The Playgarden By The Sea is located in the The Beaches neighborhood of Jacksonville Beach, FL. There are 4 other private schools located in The Beaches.
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