The Best Daycare Centers in Daggett, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Daggett. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Daggett
Barstow Head Start - Barstow Center
Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County
Barstow Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support services to low-income families in the Daggett and Barstow area. The center follows a research-based curriculum focused on school readiness, social-emotional development, and literacy. All teachers meet Head Start qualification requirements with many holding early childhood education degrees. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and provides nutritious meals and health screenings. What makes this center stand out is its holistic approach that supports both child development and family wellbeing through parent education and community resources.
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Little Scholars Learning Center
Independent
Little Scholars Learning Center offers a comprehensive educational program serving children from infancy through school age. The center utilizes a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on literacy, mathematics, and social skills development. All lead teachers hold early childhood education credentials and the center maintains low student-teacher ratios. The facility features secure access, modern classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and a structured learning environment. What distinguishes this center is their emphasis on individualized learning plans and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Kiddie Kampus Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Kiddie Kampus has been serving the Barstow and Daggett community for nearly two decades with a focus on developmental appropriate practice and hands-on learning. The curriculum balances structured academic preparation with creative expression and social development. The center employs qualified early childhood educators and maintains state-compliant staff-to-child ratios. Facilities include secure entry systems, monitored play areas, and well-equipped classrooms with learning centers. What makes this daycare exceptional is their long-standing reputation in the community, consistent quality care, and flexible scheduling options that accommodate working families in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Daggett, CA
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Daggett, CA, and how do I find them?
In Daggett, due to its small, rural population, licensed childcare options are primarily limited to Family Child Care Homes (FCCHs). These are in-home daycare settings run by a licensed provider, typically caring for a small group of children (up to 8 or 14, depending on the license type). There are no large daycare centers in Daggett itself. The best way to find licensed providers is through the online resource "California Child Care Resource & Referral (R&R) Network." You can contact the local R&R agency for San Bernardino County, which serves Daggett, for a customized referral list. Additionally, checking with the local school district or community bulletin boards at the Daggett Post Office or general store can yield leads on smaller, home-based operations.
Given Daggett's remote location, what should I look for in terms of safety and emergency preparedness when choosing a daycare?
This is a critical consideration for Daggett parents. When evaluating a daycare, ask specific questions about their emergency plans. Given the distance to major hospitals (like in Barstow or Victorville), inquire about: 1) Staff CPR/First Aid certification, 2) Protocols for medical emergencies, including transportation plans, 3) Plans for extreme weather (like heatwaves, which are common) and power outages, and 4) Communication plans if cell service is unreliable. A reputable provider should have a clear, written plan. Also, verify that the home is childproofed and that outdoor play areas are secure from local wildlife and the harsh desert environment. Always confirm their license is active and in good standing with the California Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing Division.
How long are typical waitlists for childcare in Daggett, and what can I do to secure a spot?
While not as lengthy as in major urban areas, waitlists for the few licensed Family Child Care Homes in Daggett can still be significant, often several months to a year, due to very limited supply. Your best strategy is to start your search early, ideally during pregnancy. Get on multiple waitlists, even for providers in nearby communities like Barstow or Yermo, if you are willing to commute. Be proactive and maintain contact with providers every few months to express continued interest. Building a rapport with a provider can sometimes improve your position. Also, explore less formal arrangements, such as a nanny share with another local family, which can be a practical solution in a tight-knit community like Daggett.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare in Daggett, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
For licensed Family Child Care Homes in Daggett and the surrounding High Desert area, average costs for full-time infant care typically range from $800 to $1,200 per month. Rates for toddlers and preschoolers are slightly lower. These costs are generally lower than the state average but must be weighed against local median incomes. Financial assistance is primarily available through the state's "California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP)" and "CalWORKs Stage 1" childcare programs, administered by the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (like employment or schooling). You can apply through the local Child Care Resource and Referral agency. Some providers may also offer sibling discounts.
Are there any unique programs or childcare options that leverage Daggett's desert environment or community assets?
While formal "programs" are rare, many home-based providers in Daggett naturally incorporate the local environment into daily activities. Look for providers who emphasize outdoor play in safe, shaded areas and teach children about the local desert flora and fauna in an age-appropriate way. Some providers may coordinate with the nearby Daggett Historical Society or the Mojave River Valley Museum for occasional educational outings. Given the strong sense of community, some families opt for a cooperative model, where parents rotate childcare duties. This requires significant trust and coordination but can be a cost-effective and community-building solution. Always ensure any cooperative arrangement understands and complies with state licensing requirements to avoid operating an unlicensed facility.