The Best Daycare Centers in AARP, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in AARP. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in AARP
The Goddard School of La Jolla
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of La Jolla offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy, STEM, art, and physical development through play-based learning. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide daily communication to parents about their child's activities and progress.
Daycare Services:
La Jolla Country Day School - Early Childhood Center
La Jolla Country Day School
La Jolla Country Day School's Early Childhood Center provides a research-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that focuses on the whole child. Their program emphasizes social-emotional learning, cognitive development, and physical growth through hands-on experiences. The center features purpose-built classrooms with natural lighting, extensive outdoor learning environments, and dedicated art and music spaces. Teachers are highly qualified with advanced degrees and specialized training in early childhood development. The school maintains exceptional safety protocols including secure campus access and comprehensive health policies.
Daycare Services:
Irvine Child Development Center
Educational Enrichment Systems
Irvine Child Development Center offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a curriculum that blends play-based learning with structured academic preparation. Their approach incorporates Reggio Emilia-inspired elements, project-based learning, and social-emotional development. The center features modern, well-equipped classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and dedicated spaces for art, music, and movement. All lead teachers hold California teaching credentials or degrees in early childhood education, and the center maintains low child-to-teacher ratios. They emphasize parent partnership through regular communication, parent-teacher conferences, and family engagement events.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in AARP, CA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in AARP, CA, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In California, all daycare facilities caring for children from more than one family must be licensed by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), Community Care Licensing Division. This includes both family childcare homes (smaller, in-home settings) and childcare centers. Licensed providers must meet strict health, safety, and staff-to-child ratio standards. To verify a license for a provider in AARP, you can use the CDSS's online "Child Care Licensing Lookup Tool." Simply enter the facility's name, address, or license number. It's crucial to check for any past violations or complaints. You can also contact the local Regional Licensing Office for the Central Valley region, which oversees AARP, for additional verification.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in AARP, CA?
Childcare costs in AARP are generally more affordable than in major coastal cities like San Francisco or Los Angeles but can still be a significant expense for families. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay an average of $900 to $1,200 per month for full-time infant or toddler care. Family childcare homes may range from $700 to $1,000 per month. Costs vary based on the program's hours, curriculum, staff qualifications, and amenities. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition (e.g., meals, diapers, enrichment activities). For financial assistance, explore programs like the California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP) or the California Department of Education's subsidized childcare options, which have eligibility requirements based on income and need.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in AARP, and how far in advance should I start looking?
While waitlists in AARP are typically not as extreme as in larger metropolitan areas, popular and highly-rated centers, especially those affiliated with employers or institutions, can have significant wait times. It is highly recommended to begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and if you have an infant, start looking as soon as possible, even during pregnancy. When touring facilities, always ask directly about their current waitlist status, estimated wait time, and any fees to join the list. Exploring multiple options, including both centers and licensed family childcare homes, can increase your chances of securing a spot in a timely manner.
What local resources or referral services are available in AARP to help me find and evaluate childcare options?
The primary local resource for AARP parents is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for Fresno County**, which serves the region. You can contact them for a personalized referral list of licensed providers that match your needs (location, hours, child's age). They also offer guidance on evaluating quality, understanding subsidies, and navigating the licensing system. Additionally, the **AARP Unified School District** may have information on preschool programs or partnerships. For online searches, the state's "MyChildCarePlan.org" website is a valuable tool. Don't underestimate local parent groups on social media (e.g., Facebook groups for AARP parents) for firsthand recommendations and insights.
What are some key quality indicators I should look for when touring a daycare facility in AARP?
Beyond basic licensing, look for signs of a high-quality program. First, observe **staff-child interactions**: Are caregivers engaged, responsive, and on the floor playing? Low staff turnover is a positive sign. Check the **environment**: Is it clean, safe, well-organized, and filled with child-appropriate materials and books? Outdoor play space is important. Ask about the **educational philosophy** and daily routine—it should balance play, learning, and rest. Inquire about **staff qualifications**; lead teachers should have relevant Early Childhood Education units. Finally, review their **health and safety policies** for illness, emergencies, and nutrition. Trust your instincts about the warmth and professionalism of the environment.