The Best Daycare Centers in Fontana, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fontana. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fontana
The Learning Experience - Fontana
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Fontana offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with proprietary L.E.A.P. Curriculum® that focuses on both academic and social development. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and surveillance cameras. Highly qualified teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities with low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility includes modern classrooms, indoor and outdoor play areas, and specialized learning centers. Their unique philanthropy curriculum teaches children the importance of giving back. The center provides nutritious meals and maintains excellent communication with parents through daily reports and a dedicated mobile app.
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Cadence Education - Fontana Preschool
Cadence Education
Cadence Education's Fontana location provides a well-rounded educational experience with a balanced curriculum that includes literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The center employs experienced early childhood educators with CPR and First Aid certification. Safety protocols include secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The facility features age-specific learning environments, outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated art and music areas. Their approach emphasizes hands-on learning and social-emotional development, with regular progress reports and parent-teacher conferences to ensure children meet developmental milestones.
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Discovery Isle Preschool - Rancho Cucamonga
Discovery Isle Preschool
Located in nearby Rancho Cucamonga and serving the Fontana area, Discovery Isle Preschool offers a research-based curriculum that prepares children for academic success. The center features small class sizes with highly qualified teachers who hold early childhood education degrees. Their comprehensive program includes STEAM education, foreign language exposure, and character development. The secure campus includes modern classrooms, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and specialized learning labs. The center maintains excellent health and safety standards with rigorous cleaning protocols and secure check-in systems. Parents appreciate the strong communication and community atmosphere, with many families commuting from Fontana for the exceptional educational quality.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fontana, CA
What are the typical costs for daycare or preschool in Fontana, CA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Fontana, daycare costs vary significantly based on the child's age, type of care, and program. For an infant in a licensed center, you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Toddler care typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,400 monthly, while preschool programs often cost $800 to $1,200 per month. Home-based family childcare is generally more affordable, often 10-20% less. To help with these expenses, San Bernardino County, where Fontana is located, administers state and federal subsidies. The main program is the California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP) and the California State Preschool Program (CSPP), which are income-based. You can apply through the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS) or the Child Care Resource Center (CCRC), which serves the area. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
How can I verify the license and inspection history of a daycare provider in Fontana?
All licensed childcare facilities in Fontana are regulated by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), Community Care Licensing Division. The most reliable way to verify a license and review its history is to use the CDSS online "Child Care Facility Search" tool. You can search by the provider's name, facility number, or city. This public portal provides the license status (active, expired, suspended), capacity, ages served, and any documented violations from inspections over the past several years. It's crucial to review these "Citations" and "Type A/B" violations, which detail serious non-compliance issues. For a more personal touch, you can also contact the local Regional Licensing Office in San Bernardino that oversees Fontana. Always ask the provider directly for their license number and cross-reference it online before enrolling your child.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Fontana, and what's the best strategy to secure a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common for high-quality and well-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Fontana, especially for infant and toddler programs. Popular centers can have waitlists of 6 to 12 months or longer. The best strategy is to start your search early, ideally during pregnancy or 6-9 months before your needed start date. Contact multiple centers (both centers and licensed family childcare homes) to get on their lists, even if you're unsure. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is standard. Expand your search to neighboring communities like Rialto, Rancho Cucamonga, or Bloomington for more options. Don't overlook licensed family childcare providers, which often have shorter wait times and can offer a more home-like setting. Follow up with providers every 2-3 months to confirm your spot on the list and demonstrate your continued interest.
What are the options for subsidized or state-funded preschool programs for 3- and 4-year-olds in Fontana?
Fontana offers several key options for state-funded preschool, primarily targeting low- to moderate-income families. The California State Preschool Program (CSPP) is the largest, offering part-day and full-day programs at various locations, including Fontana Unified School District (FUSD) sites and some private centers under contract. Eligibility is based on family income, age (3-5 years old, not yet in Kindergarten), and need. Another critical program is Head Start and Early Head Start, administered by local agencies like the Child Care Resource Center (CCRC), which provides comprehensive early education, health, and family services. The best first step is to contact the Fontana Unified School District's Early Childhood Education department or the San Bernardino County Preschool Services Department (PSD). They can provide current availability, income guidelines, and application procedures for all subsidized programs in the city.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Fontana?
When touring a daycare in Fontana, go beyond the basics. First, observe the cleanliness and safety: check for secure fencing, covered electrical outlets, and age-appropriate toys without choking hazards. Notice the staff-to-child ratios; California mandates specific ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants), but a lower ratio is often better. Watch how caregivers interact with children—are they engaged, responsive, and down on the child's level? Ask about their qualifications and ongoing training. Inquire about the daily schedule, nutrition (are meals provided?), nap procedures, and sick policies. Given Fontana's climate, check the outdoor play area for adequate shade and safety surfaces. Ask about their emergency plans for earthquakes or fires. Finally, trust your instincts on the overall vibe—is it a warm, welcoming, and stimulating environment where your child would thrive? Always verify what you see against their official CDSS licensing file online.