The Best Daycare Centers in Edwards, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Edwards. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Edwards
The Goddard School of Lancaster
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lancaster offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their curriculum focuses on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) education and incorporates play-based learning. All teachers are highly qualified with degrees in early childhood education or related fields. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide daily communication to parents about their child's development and activities.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Lancaster
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Lancaster provides Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their research-based curriculum includes character development, literacy, math, and science programs. The school features secure facilities with coded entry systems, dedicated age-specific playgrounds, and modern classrooms with developmentally appropriate materials. All staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, and the school maintains rigorous health and safety protocols. Parent communication includes regular updates through the Primrose Schools app and parent-teacher conferences.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Experience - Palmdale
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Palmdale offers a comprehensive early education curriculum with proprietary programs including L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) and phonics-based reading program. Their approach focuses on academic, social, and cognitive development through structured learning and play. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, including secured entry and surveillance cameras. Classrooms are designed for specific age groups with appropriate learning materials and play areas. The facility includes outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces and age-appropriate equipment. Teachers receive ongoing professional development and maintain current certifications in early childhood education and safety protocols.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Edwards, CA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Edwards, CA, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Edwards, California, all childcare providers caring for children from more than one family must be licensed by the California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division. This includes family childcare homes (smaller, in-home settings) and childcare centers. Licensed facilities must meet strict health, safety, and staff-to-child ratio requirements. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the state's online "Child Care Licensing Lookup" tool or contact the local Bakersfield Regional Office, which oversees Kern County. It's crucial to check for any past violations or complaints as part of your evaluation process.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Edwards, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Edwards and the surrounding Kern County area, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $800 to $1,200 per month at a licensed center, while family childcare homes may be slightly less. Costs are often influenced by the provider's hours, curriculum, and amenities. Given Edwards' proximity to Edwards Air Force Base, military families may have access to the Child Care Fee Assistance program. Additionally, California offers subsidies through the CalWORKs Child Care and the Alternative Payment (AP) programs for income-eligible families. You can apply for these through the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) Child Development Department.
How long are typical waitlists for quality daycare centers in Edwards, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of dedicated childcare centers in Edwards itself, waitlists for highly regarded providers can be long, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant care. Many families also look to nearby communities like Lancaster or Rosamond, which may have more options but similar wait times. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy, get on multiple lists, and follow up with providers every 4-6 weeks. Be flexible with your start date if possible. Also, consider licensed family childcare homes, which may have shorter waitlists and offer a more home-like environment.
Are there any daycare options in Edwards that accommodate non-traditional or shift work hours, common for aerospace and base personnel?
Yes, accommodating non-traditional hours is a recognized need in Edwards, given the significant employment at Edwards Air Force Base and aerospace contractors. While standard centers typically operate 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, some licensed family childcare homes offer more flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, or occasional overnight care. It's essential to inquire directly about flexibility. Additionally, the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN) program can help military families find and afford care in the local community, including providers who offer extended hours. Be sure to communicate your specific schedule needs clearly during your search.
What are some key local factors to consider when touring a daycare in Edwards, such as outdoor play and emergency preparedness?
Edwards' high-desert climate and remote location present unique considerations. When touring, ask about outdoor play schedules during extreme heat or wind, and look for shaded areas. Inquire about their emergency preparedness plans for specific local risks, such as wildfires or earthquakes, including evacuation routes and communication protocols with parents. Given the area's isolation, also ask about their policy and capabilities for handling minor child illnesses or injuries, and how quickly a parent could realistically arrive if needed. Finally, consider the commute; dust storms can occasionally impact local roads, so understanding the provider's late pickup policy is important.