The Best Daycare Centers in Brea, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Brea. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Brea
Brea KinderCare
KinderCare Learning Companies
Brea KinderCare offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features dedicated learning centers for different age groups, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The center emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences. Their balanced approach combines structured learning with play-based activities to support holistic child development.
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The Learning Experience - Brea
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Brea provides a proprietary curriculum called L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) that incorporates phonics, foreign language, manners, and physical fitness. The center features bright, modern classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and advanced security systems. Their highly qualified teachers focus on developing cognitive, social, and emotional skills through hands-on learning activities. The center offers enrichment programs including yoga, music, and STEM activities. Parent engagement is prioritized through regular updates and family events, creating a strong community atmosphere.
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Sunshine Daydreams Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Sunshine Daydreams is a locally-owned childcare center known for its nurturing environment and play-based learning approach. The center emphasizes social-emotional development through structured play, creative arts, and hands-on exploration. Their experienced teaching staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios and focuses on individualized attention. The facility features organic gardens, natural play spaces, and eco-friendly materials. They incorporate nature-based learning and mindfulness practices into daily routines. The center is particularly praised for its warm, family-like atmosphere and strong emphasis on character development and community values.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Brea, CA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Brea, CA?
In Brea, the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare typically ranges from $1,400 to $1,900 per month. This places Brea slightly above the Orange County average, reflecting the city's quality of services and cost of living. Center-based care is often at the higher end of this range, while licensed in-home family daycare may be more affordable. Prices can vary based on factors like the facility's amenities (e.g., cameras, curriculum), staff-to-child ratios, and whether meals are provided. It's important to note that costs for preschool-age children (3-5 years) are generally 10-20% lower. We recommend contacting several local providers for specific rates and inquiring about any available discounts for siblings or prepayment.
How do I verify a daycare or preschool is properly licensed in Brea, and what should I look for in their inspection history?
All licensed childcare facilities in Brea must be licensed by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). You can verify a provider's license and view their inspection history for free through the CDSS "Child Care Licensing" website or by calling their regional office. When reviewing a facility's history, look for the license status (should be "Licensed"), the capacity and ages served, and any documented violations. Pay close attention to the nature of any citations—serious "Type A" violations involve immediate health and safety risks, while "Type B" are less severe. A clean record is ideal, but seeing how a facility corrected a past issue can also be informative. You can also check with the local Child Care Resource Center (CCRC) for additional guidance and referrals.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Brea, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many highly-rated daycare centers and preschools in Brea, especially for infant care, which has the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly advised to begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before your needed start date, and for infant spots, even 12 months in advance is not uncommon. Popular centers with specific educational philosophies (like Montessori) may have the longest lists. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot (which is usually non-refundable), and how often they update families on their position. Also consider exploring licensed family childcare homes, which may have more immediate availability and offer a smaller setting.
What are some local resources in Brea to help me find and evaluate childcare options?
Brea parents have several excellent local resources. The primary agency is the **Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)**, which serves North Orange County. They offer free referrals, parenting resources, and information on subsidized care programs like the California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP). You can also contact the **Brea Family Resource Center**, which may have community-specific programs and networking opportunities. For school-based preschools, check the **Brea-Olinda Unified School District** website for their early childhood education offerings. Additionally, local parent groups on social media platforms like Facebook (e.g., "Brea Moms & Dads") are invaluable for getting personal recommendations and insights into the day-to-day experiences at specific providers.
What are the key differences between a large daycare center and a licensed family childcare home in Brea?
The choice between a center and a family home in Brea involves several key differences. **Daycare Centers** are typically larger, housed in commercial buildings, and often have multiple classrooms separated by age. They may follow a structured curriculum, have more staff with specialized roles, and offer amenities like playgrounds and kitchens. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate out of the provider's residence, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of children (up to 8 or 14, depending on license type). This setting often provides a more home-like, flexible environment and can be more accommodating to non-standard hours. Centers are regulated for facility safety, while homes must meet safety standards for a residence. Costs for family homes are often lower, and they may have shorter waitlists. Your decision should hinge on your child's temperament, your schedule, and the type of social and learning environment you prefer.