2026-27 enrollment

Parents with a child or sibling currently enrolled in the Parent-Toddler or Learn Through Play programs will receive priority registration. Priority registration for fall 2026 opens March 11 at 8 a.m. Families not currently enrolled may register beginning May 20 at 8 a.m.

For questions about future enrollment, please contact Recreation Supervisor Eric Sapp at eric.sapp@carlsbadca.gov.

Parent-Toddler classes

12–24 months
In this interactive program, parents attend each class with their child, supporting early social development through play-based learning. Sessions include hands-on toddler activities and parent discussions that support early childhood development.

Class requirements:

• A parent or guardian must attend and participate with the child each day.
• Families take turns providing snacks and paper supplies.
• Parents should review the Parent-Toddler Handbook before the first class.

Learn Through Play classes

Age 3, ages 3-4 combo and age 4 classes

The Learn Through Play parent participation program emphasizes language development, socialization, problem-solving and school readiness in a supportive, nurturing environment. Daily activities include music, movement, art projects, story time, cooking, sharing, and indoor and outdoor play. Children explore teacher-developed thematic units such as sea life, seasons, zoo animals, and plant life. Field trips are also part of the experience to enhance learning.

Class requirements:

• Parents or guardians must work two days per month as a teacher's aide and provide snacks on one of those days.
• Monthly parent education meetings are required, where topics in child development and early education are discussed.
• Kruger House parents must participate in two maintenance days per school year. Maintenance days consist of assisting with the cleanliness and organization of the Kruger House facility.
• Parents must read the Learn Through Play Parent Handbook.

Fingerprint requirement for program participants

Enrollment sessions

Sessions follow the Carlsbad Unified School District calendar and run in fall, winter and spring. The fall session begins in September, the winter session starts in December, and the spring session begins in March to wrap up the program year.

Current participants will have a priority registration period to continue in their current session. Participants may register for the next level of sessions for the following year, typically in March.

Payment options

The City of Carlsbad Early Childhood Program offers simplified payment options for each session. There are two options:

1. Pay in full at the time of registration
2. Participate in a monthly payment plan*

*If participating in the monthly payment plan, you must pay for the first month by credit card, which will be securely stored in the City of Carlsbad Community Services registration system and will be charged in two installments over the course of the session. Full refunds are available if you contact the Recreation Supervisor prior to the installment date.

Scheduling a visit

To schedule a visit, contact Program Coordinator Brenda Elg at 442-339-2851 or brenda.elg@carlsbadca.gov at least one week in advance.