The Best Daycare Centers in Boron, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Boron. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Boron
California City Child Development Center
California City Child Development Center
This highly-rated center serves the Eastern Kern County region including Boron families. They offer a comprehensive developmental curriculum with certified early childhood educators. The center features age-appropriate learning environments, structured play areas, and nutritional meal programs. Their educational approach focuses on social-emotional development, early literacy, and kindergarten readiness. Safety protocols include secured access, regular drills, and strict staff screening. Parents praise the consistent communication and individualized attention each child receives.
Daycare Services:
Ridgecrest Child Development Center
Ridgecrest Child Development Center
Serving families throughout the High Desert region including Boron, this center provides quality early childhood education with a play-based learning approach. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and employ qualified early childhood educators. The curriculum includes STEM activities, creative arts, and physical development programs. Facilities include modern classrooms, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and dedicated infant care areas. The center is known for its inclusive environment and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
Daycare Services:
Mojave Child Care & Learning Center
Mojave Child Care & Learning Center
This established center serves the broader desert communities including Boron with comprehensive childcare services. They offer a balanced curriculum that combines structured learning with creative exploration. The center features certified teachers, developmentally appropriate materials, and safe, clean facilities. Their program emphasizes social skills development, early academics, and physical coordination. Safety measures include monitored access, emergency preparedness plans, and health screening protocols. The center is praised for its experienced staff and nurturing environment.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Boron, CA
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Boron, CA, and how do I find them?
In Boron, licensed childcare options are primarily Family Child Care Homes (FCCHs) operated in a provider's residence, as there are no large daycare centers within the city limits. These small, home-based settings are licensed by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) and typically care for a smaller group of children, which can offer a more personalized environment. To find licensed providers, you should use the state's official "Child Care Licensing" search tool on the CDSS website, filtering by Boron's zip code (93516). Additionally, contacting the local resource and referral agency for Kern County, like the Child Care Resource Center (CCRC), can provide personalized referrals and information on current openings.
Given Boron's remote location, are there any childcare options for parents working non-traditional or rotating shifts at places like the U.S. Borax Mine?
This is a significant challenge in Boron. Most licensed Family Child Care Homes operate on standard weekday hours. For parents working swing, graveyard, or rotating shifts at the mine or other local employers, options are extremely limited. Your best course of action is to directly inquire with licensed home providers about potential flexibility, though this is not guaranteed. Many families in Boron rely on informal care networks with trusted family members, friends, or neighbors. It's also advisable to connect with other parents through local community groups or workplace networks to explore shared or alternating care arrangements that can accommodate unique schedules.
What is the typical cost for full-time childcare in Boron, and is there financial assistance available?
Due to the limited number of providers, costs can vary but are generally lower than in larger California cities. For a licensed Family Child Care Home in Boron, you might expect to pay between $600 to $900 per month for full-time care for one child. However, availability dictates price, and with few options, costs may be at the higher end. Financial assistance is available through the California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP) and CalWORKs Stage 1 Child Care. Eligibility is based on family income, need, and factors like employment or school enrollment. You must apply through the Kern County Superintendent of Schools office or the designated local agency, which will provide a subsidy voucher to use with a licensed or license-exempt provider.
How long are waitlists for childcare in Boron, and what can I do to secure a spot?
With very few licensed providers serving the community, waitlists can be long and unpredictable, often several months to over a year. It is crucial to begin your search as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. To secure a spot, contact every licensed provider in Boron and the surrounding areas (like North Edwards or California City) to get on their waitlists. Be prepared to provide your child's anticipated start date and your contact information. Follow up politely every few months to express continued interest. Building a relationship with providers and being flexible with your start date, if possible, can improve your chances. Exploring license-exempt care with a relative, neighbor, or nanny is a common backup plan.
What specific health, safety, and program standards should I verify when visiting a home daycare in Boron?
All licensed providers must meet California's stringent health and safety standards. During a visit, you should verify the provider's license is current and posted, and check for a clear fire inspection permit. Ask about their emergency preparedness plan for scenarios like fires, earthquakes, or medical incidents, which is especially relevant in this desert region. Ensure the home has safe, age-appropriate toys and a clean environment, with hazardous materials locked away. Inquire about their program's educational philosophy, daily routine, meal provisions (if any), and their policy on outdoor play given Boron's high summer temperatures. Don't hesitate to ask for references from other local parents. You can also review a provider's compliance history online through the CDSS licensing portal.