For generations, Happy Time Preschool has helped children grow into confident, capable learners through warmth, structure, and meaningful early experiences.
A Preschool Families Have Trusted Since 1962
About Happy Time Preschool
Children are not only learning their first academic skills—they are learning how to be part of a classroom, how to build friendships, and how to feel confident in themselves.
Our goal is simple: to create an environment where children feel supported, capable, and excited to learn each day.
At Happy Time Preschool, we believe the early years should feel both joyful and meaningful.
Her belief was simple: children develop confidence, responsibility, and perseverance through meaningful real-life experiences.
Inspired by her love of horses, she thoughtfully incorporated riding lessons and animal care into the preschool program—creating a learning environment unlike any other.
Today, Happy Time Preschool remains family owned and operated, continuing that legacy through intentional teaching, strong routines, and a warm, supportive environment.
We are proud to welcome the children—and even grandchildren—of former students, creating a multi-generational preschool community rooted in trust and care.
Happy Time Preschool was founded in 1962 by lifelong Rancho Santa Fe resident Mary Ann Tessary.
Our Story + Legacy
To prepare children to thrive in school and life by building strong foundations in learning, behavior, and social-emotional development.
Our Mission + Beliefs
We use intentional teaching, consistent routines, and warm guidance to help children grow in confidence, independence, and perseverance.
We believe preschool should feel enriching and joyful while still supporting real developmental growth.
When children feel safe and capable, curiosity naturally grows.
A Love of Learning Starts Early
Respect, empathy, and responsibility are taught through everyday interactions.
Manners and Kindness Matter
Listening, participation, and perseverance set children up for long-term success.
Learning Behaviors Build Success
Meet Our Teachers & Staff
I opened Happy Time Preschool in 1962, but my journey began long before that. I moved to Rancho Santa Fe as an infant, and not long after, I received my first Welsh Mountain Pony. From that point on, my love for horses grew alongside my love for working with children.
After many years of giving riding lessons and caring for young children, I came to understand that the patience, responsibility, and care required for riding are the very same qualities children need as they grow and learn. That realization inspired me to create a preschool where children could develop confidence, independence, and a sense of responsibility through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
For me, the most rewarding part of this work has always been the relationships. There is nothing more special than seeing former students return with their own children and hearing the memories they carry with them from their time at Happy Time. It is something I will never take for granted.
Even after all these years, I still look forward to each day with the children. It continues to bring me joy, and I feel incredibly fortunate to do work that I truly love.
Mary Ann Tessary
I have worked at Happy Time Preschool for over 27 years, continuing the legacy my mother began when she founded the school. Having grown up around the program—and later choosing to have my own children attend—I had the unique opportunity to experience Happy Time not only as an educator, but as a parent. Sharing those same daily moments, traditions, and milestones with my own children was incredibly meaningful, and it deepened my understanding of how much these early years shape a child’s confidence, independence, and love of learning.
I am passionate about building meaningful relationships with children and supporting them as they grow into confident, independent learners who believe in themselves. I believe that when children feel supported and capable, they begin to see what they are truly capable of. My wife works as a behavior specialist with a local school district, which has further shaped my understanding of child development and how to thoughtfully support each child’s growth.
One of the most rewarding parts of my work is seeing that growth over time—watching children become more confident, more independent, and ready for what comes next.
john paul
I have been so fortunate to be a teacher at Happy Time Preschool for the past three and a half years. With over 15 years of experience in education, I am dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of learning in my students. I grew up in Boston, Massachusetts with my two older brothers and have fond memories of Red Sox games at Fenway Park and summers spent on Cape Cod. Inspired by my grandmother, who was a teacher, I knew from an early age that I wanted to follow in her footsteps. I went on to earn my master’s degree in education and began my teaching career in the Boston area.
After moving to San Diego, I was immediately drawn to Happy Time Preschool and appreciated how students are provided with opportunities beyond the traditional classroom including pony rides, gathering kale and Swiss chard in the school garden, and even collecting chicken eggs to share with their families. These experiences bring learning to life in meaningful, memorable ways. My nephew, who attended Happy Time, will often reminisce fondly of his time spent there. Hearing him talk about his memories, demonstrates to me the positive, lasting impact the school had on him.
NicolE
I have been fortunate to be part of the Happy Time Preschool family for the past 15 years. Happy Time holds a special place in my heart, as all three of my own children attended the preschool. Having experienced Happy Time as both a parent and a teacher, I know firsthand what a special place it is for children and their families.
One of the things I love most about teaching preschool is watching children grow in confidence, develop friendships, and discover new things about the world around them. Every child brings something unique to the classroom, and I enjoy getting to know each of them and being part of these important early years.
After 15 years, I still find so much joy in coming to school each day. It has been wonderful to watch so many children grow and to be part of the Happy Time community for all these years.
CarolyN
At Happy Time Preschool, children don’t just learn—they grow into confident, kind, and capable individuals.
We believe the early years shape how children feel about school for years to come.
Through a balance of structure, warmth, and meaningful experiences, children develop confidence, independence, and a genuine love of learning.
It’s not just about preparing for kindergarten—it’s about helping each child feel capable, supported, and proud of who they are becoming.
