Where Curiosity Becomes Capability

A Montessori and Reggio STEAM Preschool in Irvine, CA

Westcliff Early Learning Academy (WELA) is a STEAM-focused preschool in Irvine, serving children ages 18 months to 6 years.

Rooted in Montessori and Reggio Emilia philosophies, our future-ready program blends hands-on STEM learning, creative arts, and nature-based exploration to help young children grow into confident, curious thinkers.

Request Information

Learn more about our unique programs, flexible schedule, and competitive tuition. Fill out the form below, call or text (949) 867-7985, or email us. We are looking forward to meeting you soon!

Terms and Conditions: By submitting the Request Information form, you are giving your express written consent without obligation for Westcliff Early Learning Academy to contact you regarding our educational programs and services using e-mail or phone, including automated technology for calls to the phone number(s) provided.

STEAM Preschool in Irvine

child-led learning

Early childhood is a period of rapid brain development, making these years a critical time to build thinking skills.

At WELA, our STEAM preschool program helps children develop:

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Confidence in experimentation and discovery
  • Early math, science, and engineering foundations
  • Creativity, communication, and emotional expression

Our goal isn’t early academics—it’s preparing children to think deeply, adapt confidently, and love learning.

Montessori & Reggio Emilia

Our program combines:

  • Montessori education, emphasizing independence, focus, and hands-on materials
  • Reggio Emilia-inspired learning, driven by curiosity, collaboration, and project-based exploration

This blended approach creates a child-centered preschool environment where children are respected as capable learners and supported at every stage of development.

A Nature - Based Preschool Experience

As a nature-based preschool in Irvine, WELA uses the outdoors as a living classroom. Children engage in:

  • Gardening and plant care
  • Insect and habitat studies
  • Weather tracking and observation
  • Building and art projects with natural materials

These experiences strengthen observation skills, environmental awareness, and early scientific thinking.

Vietnamese Dual - language Immersion

nature as co-teacher

WELA follows a dual-language learning approach, thoughtfully designed to support early brain development during the critical ages of 1–5. Children are immersed in both their native language and Vietnamese through intentional, research-based practices.

In our dual-language program, children engage in:

  • Daily guided immersion in both languages
  • Play-based vocabulary development and storytelling
  • Songs, movement, and interactive language games
  • Structured one-hour focused language sessions

A Future – Ready Preschool for Families in Orange County

Westcliff Early Learning Academy offers:

  • A research-informed STEAM preschool curriculum
  • A balance of structure and creativity
  • A joyful, pressure-free learning environment
  • Strong family partnerships and individualized
    support

We proudly serve families seeking a high-quality preschool in Irvine that prepares children for kindergarten—and beyond.

Young children engaging in hands-on STEAM learning activities at preschool in Irvine, CA

Our STEAM Preschool Curriculum

Children explore cause and effect through hands-on science activities like nature observation, sensory experiments, and simple investigations.

Block building, marble runs, and design challenges help children learn how to plan, test, revise, and solve problems.

Logic games, sequencing activities, and hands-on tools support early technology skills—without excessive screen time.

Children develop number sense, pattern recognition, and spatial awareness through playful, real-world math experiences.

  Location Details

Westcliff Early Learning Academy – Irvine, CA

2941 Alton Parkway, Irvine, CA 92606

Mon – Fri: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sat – Sun: closed

+1 (949) 867-7985

Facebook  Instagram