Un Mundo de Amigos Preschool

Un Mundo de Amigos Preschool (UMDA) has been transforming lives through high-quality, free-to-low-cost preschool education since 2009, serving underserved communities in Long Beach, where access to early childhood education is scarce. Over the years, we have graduated more than 1,500 students, becoming a proven solution to the growing need for early childhood education in Central and Downtown Long Beach. In response to increasing demand, UMDA expanded in 2019 with the addition of two classrooms in Downtown Long Beach, and we are excited to open our third site in West Long Beach in 2025.

At UMDA, we are inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, placing children at the center of their learning experiences. Our play-based, inquiry-driven philosophy encourages exploration, critical thinking, and creativity. We create an environment that nurtures curiosity through open-ended activities, hands-on learning, and meaningful connections to nature, fostering a deep sense of independence and confidence. Our classrooms are designed to be dynamic spaces where children can engage at their own developmental pace, supported by consistent routines and strong, caring relationships with teachers and peers.

In addition to our comprehensive curriculum, we provide daily nutritious meals and offer free dental, hearing, and vision screenings to promote the well-being of our students. UMDA is deeply committed to supporting families beyond the classroom, partnering with parents to provide resources such as food assistance, housing support, mental health services, trauma therapy, and immigration aid. We also host monthly parent workshops, complete with translation and childcare, to ensure families feel connected and supported.

UMDA primarily serves families considered the working poor—those who earn too much to qualify for state or federal aid but cannot afford the high cost of early education. Our inclusive, accessible program ensures that every child, regardless of background or ability, receives the foundation they need for lifelong success. As we continue to expand, our vision remains the same: to create a community where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential, supported by education, resources, and a strong sense of belonging.

Testimonials

What a wonderful preschool. The staff here are amazing. It has improved very much since last year, and boy does it show. The teachers here are a blessing with the students, teaching them their ABC's and 123's! Parents, if you are looking to enroll your children in a wonderful preschool with a caring and nurturing environment, then Un Mundo De Amigos preschool is the place for them. The staff here really involve the parents so much in their daily activities. Plus, I also heard that a former LAUP Teacher Of The Year is here, which is downright awesome. Parents, you will not be disappointed in signing up your children here.
Julian A., Long Beach, CA

Our experience at Un Mundo de Amigos has been great. My daughter is very excited to be attending the school. She started school last September during the pandemic. At the beginning, I was very hesitant to enroll her but Mrs. Yolanda made me feel comfortable and at ease since the beginning. I have seen the progress my daughter has made. She has become more independent and has gain more confidence. The teachers at the school are willing to work with the child. The communication from teacher to parent is outstanding. They are consistently communicating with the parents. They have also provided us with valuable resources and workshops that have been helpful for my family. The environment at the school is very welcoming and caring. I am so grateful to have been able to find this school and mostly during the pandemic. It has definitely been an outlet for my daughters during these difficult times. The staff at the school have also taken all of the measures to protect the children and staff during the pandemic.
Jessica C., Long Beach, CA