The Best Daycare Centers in California City, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in California City. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in California City
California City Child Development Center
Community Action Partnership of Kern
This Head Start and Early Head Start program provides comprehensive early childhood education with a focus on school readiness. The center offers developmentally appropriate curriculum, nutritious meals, and family support services. Staff includes qualified early childhood educators with CPR/first aid certification. The facility features age-appropriate learning environments, outdoor play areas, and follows strict safety protocols. Specializes in serving low-income families with sliding scale fees and provides transportation services within California City.
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Little Explorers Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Mojave (approximately 15 minutes from California City), this highly-rated center serves families throughout the Antelope Valley region. Features a play-based learning curriculum with structured academic components, including literacy development and STEM activities. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios, employs qualified early childhood educators, and offers secure facilities with monitored access. Parents praise the center's communication, clean environment, and engaging educational activities. Provides full-day programs with extended hours to accommodate working families.
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Sunshine Kids Preschool
Independent
Serving the broader Antelope Valley area including California City families (approximately 25-minute commute), this acclaimed preschool focuses on holistic child development. Implements a comprehensive curriculum blending Montessori principles with traditional early education, emphasizing social-emotional learning, literacy, and mathematics. Features certified teachers with early childhood credentials, modern security systems, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. The center is noted for its nurturing environment, strong parent-teacher partnerships, and excellent kindergarten preparation track record. Offers flexible scheduling and enrichment programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in California City, CA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in California City, CA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In California City, CA, full-time daycare for an infant or toddler typically ranges from $600 to $900 per month, while preschool for children aged 3-5 may cost between $500 and $750 monthly. These rates are generally lower than the state average due to the city's rural location and cost of living. For financial assistance, parents can apply for the California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP) or the California State Preschool Program (CSPP) through the Kern County Superintendent of Schools office, which serves the area. Additionally, the local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency, Child Care Resource Center (CCRC), can help families navigate subsidy options like CalWORKs Stage 1, 2, or 3.
How can I verify if a daycare or childcare provider in California City is properly licensed and what should I look for during a visit?
All licensed childcare providers in California City must be registered with the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). You can verify a provider's license, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the CDSS website. During an in-person visit, look for a visible license, ask about staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:12 for preschoolers), check for clean and safe indoor/outdoor spaces, and inquire about staff qualifications and emergency plans. Given the city's desert climate, also ensure there is adequate shade, hydration, and cooling during outdoor play.
Are there any licensed in-home daycare options in California City, and how do they compare to larger childcare centers?
Yes, California City has several licensed Family Child Care Homes (FCCHs), which are small, home-based operations caring for up to 8 or 14 children (with an assistant). These are popular in the community for offering a more intimate, family-like setting and often provide more flexible hours, which can be beneficial for parents working non-traditional shifts at local employers like the California City Correctional Facility or Edwards Air Force Base. Compared to larger centers, FCCHs may have mixed-age groups, potentially lower costs, and a single consistent caregiver, but they might offer fewer structured educational programs. Always verify their license and check references.
What is the current waitlist situation for daycare and preschools in California City, and how far in advance should I apply?
Due to limited childcare providers in California City, waitlists are common, especially for infants and toddlers. For popular local centers like California City Preschool or home-based providers, it's advisable to apply at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and some parents report waiting up to a year. To manage this, start your search early, get on multiple waitlists, and stay in regular contact with providers. The Kern County Child Care Planning Council notes that availability can be particularly tight for infants, so exploring licensed FCCHs can provide alternative options with potentially shorter wait times.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in California City, and how are they coordinated with the local school district?
For school-age children, California City offers several options. The California City Boys & Girls Club provides a licensed after-school program with homework help, snacks, and activities, often with transportation from local schools like California City Elementary or Mojave Elementary. Some local Family Child Care Homes also offer before and after-school care. These programs typically align with the Sierra Sands Unified School District calendar. It's important to inquire about registration deadlines, as spaces are limited. Costs vary, but subsidies may be available through programs like the Kern County After School Education and Safety (ASES) program for eligible families.