The Best Daycare Centers in Big Bear Lake, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Big Bear Lake. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake Preschool
Independent
Big Bear Lake Preschool offers a comprehensive early childhood education program focused on school readiness and social development. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, literacy development, and age-appropriate academic preparation. The facility features dedicated classrooms for different age groups, outdoor play areas, and experienced educators with early childhood credentials. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide a nurturing environment that balances structured learning with creative play. The center is known for its strong parent communication and community involvement.
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Teddy Bear Children's Center
Independent
Teddy Bear Children's Center provides comprehensive childcare services from infancy through school age. Their program features developmentally appropriate curriculum with emphasis on social-emotional learning, cognitive development, and physical coordination. The center maintains state-required teacher-to-child ratios with qualified staff holding early childhood education credentials. Facilities include secure infant rooms, age-specific playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. They offer flexible scheduling and nutritional meal programs, with particular strength in their toddler and preschool programs that incorporate nature-based learning appropriate for the mountain environment.
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Sugar Pine Preschool
Independent
Located in nearby Running Springs but serving the greater Big Bear area, Sugar Pine Preschool offers a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum focuses on developing foundational literacy and math skills while fostering creativity and problem-solving abilities. The center features modern classrooms, extensive outdoor learning environments, and experienced teachers with specialized training in early childhood development. They emphasize individualized learning plans and maintain strong safety protocols. The program is particularly noted for its smooth transition to kindergarten and comprehensive developmental assessments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Big Bear Lake, CA
What are the typical costs for daycare or preschool in Big Bear Lake, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Big Bear Lake, CA, daycare costs vary based on the child's age and program type. For infants and toddlers, full-time care typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Preschool programs for children aged 3-5 generally cost between $800 and $1,200 monthly. These rates are often slightly lower than major California metro areas but reflect the limited supply of providers in a mountain community. For financial assistance, parents can apply for the California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP) or the California State Preschool Program (CSPP) through the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools. Additionally, the local resource center, Bear Valley Community Services, may offer guidance and referrals for sliding-scale fees or temporary assistance, especially for families impacted by seasonal tourism employment fluctuations.
How do I verify a daycare or childcare provider's license and inspection history in Big Bear Lake?
All licensed childcare providers in Big Bear Lake are regulated by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), Community Care Licensing Division. You can verify a facility's license status and view its inspection reports (including any citations) for free on the CDSS website using their "Child Care Facility Search" tool. Simply enter the provider's name, facility number, or zip code (92315). It's crucial to check this because, while many licensed family daycare homes and centers operate in the area, some small-scale or occasional caregivers may be operating illegally as "license-exempt." For your child's safety, always choose a fully licensed provider. You can also contact the local Regional Licensing Office in San Bernardino for specific questions.
Are there childcare options that accommodate parents who work in the local tourism and hospitality industry, which often involves non-traditional hours?
Yes, but they are limited and require proactive searching. Given Big Bear Lake's economy is heavily centered on tourism, ski resorts, and hospitality, some providers offer extended or flexible hours. A few licensed family daycare homes may offer early morning (before 6 AM) or evening care to accommodate shift workers at Snow Summit or Bear Mountain. It's also common for nanny shares or in-home caregivers to be arranged among families with similar schedules. The best resource is the "Big Bear Lake Moms & Dads" Facebook group, where parents often post about and coordinate non-traditional care needs. Be prepared for potential premium rates for care outside standard 7 AM-6 PM windows and to join waitlists well in advance of the winter ski season.
What should I consider regarding weather and emergency preparedness when choosing a daycare in Big Bear Lake?
This is a critical local consideration. When touring facilities, ask specific questions about their winter weather and emergency plans. A reputable daycare in Big Bear Lake should have a clear policy for heavy snow, road closures, and power outages, including potential early closures or delayed openings. They should have backup generators, ample heating, and emergency supplies (food, water, blankets) for sheltering in place. Also, inquire about their evacuation plan for wildfires, which are a regional risk. Ensure they conduct regular safety drills. Providers accustomed to mountain living will often have detailed communication protocols to update parents via text or app during emergencies. Choosing a center with 4-wheel drive vehicles or staff who live nearby can also ensure reliable operation during winter storms.
How far in advance do I need to apply for daycare, and are waitlists common in Big Bear Lake?
Due to the limited number of licensed childcare facilities in Big Bear Lake, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **at least 6-12 months before you need care**, particularly if your start date aligns with the beginning of the school year (September) or the start of the ski season (November). Some highly sought-after preschools have waitlists that exceed a year. For more immediate needs, expanding your search to include licensed family daycare homes in surrounding areas like Fawnskin or Big Bear City may yield shorter wait times. Be persistent, check in monthly with providers, and consider applying to multiple programs simultaneously. The scarcity underscores the importance of early planning for families moving to or starting a family in the community.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Big Bear Lake: