The Best Daycare Centers in Lancaster, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lancaster. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lancaster
Bright Horizons at Lancaster
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Lancaster offers a comprehensive early education program with developmentally appropriate curriculum for each age group. The center features NAEYC-accredited programs with research-based learning approaches including emergent curriculum and STEM activities. Highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees provide individualized attention with low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with natural lighting. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, nutritious meal program, and the developmental progress they see in their children.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Experience - Lancaster
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Lancaster provides a proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum that combines academic learning with social development. The center specializes in early literacy, phonics, and mathematics through interactive learning stations. Certified early childhood educators implement structured lesson plans while maintaining a nurturing environment. Safety features include secured access, CCTV monitoring, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The facility boasts colorful, engaging classrooms, indoor gymnasium, and outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment. Parents frequently mention the center's organized communication, enrichment programs, and their children's enthusiasm for attending.
Daycare Services:
A Child's Place
Independent
A Child's Place is a locally-owned childcare center serving Lancaster families for nearly two decades. The center implements a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, early literacy, and kindergarten readiness skills. Experienced teachers maintain small class sizes with personalized attention. The facility features secure entry systems, age-separated playgrounds, and well-equipped classrooms with learning centers. The center is known for its family-like atmosphere, experienced long-term staff, and flexible scheduling options that accommodate working parents' needs.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lancaster, CA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lancaster, CA?
In Lancaster, the cost of full-time daycare varies significantly based on the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $900 and $1,300 per month for an infant or toddler. In-home family childcare homes are often slightly less expensive, typically ranging from $700 to $1,000 per month. These costs are generally lower than the state average for California, reflecting Lancaster's cost of living. It's important to note that prices can be higher for centers with specialized curricula or extended hours. Many families in the Antelope Valley utilize subsidies through the California Department of Social Services or local programs like the Child Care Resource Center (CCRC) to help manage these expenses.
How can I verify that a daycare provider in Lancaster is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All legal childcare providers in California must be licensed by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). To verify a Lancaster provider's license and review their history, you should use the CDSS "Child Care Licensing" public search website. You can search by the provider's name, facility number, or city. This report will show the license status, capacity, any type of facility (like a family home or center), and a history of citations for violations of state regulations. For a more localized resource, parents can also contact the Child Care Resource Center (CCRC), which serves the Antelope Valley, for referrals and guidance on evaluating licensed providers in the Lancaster area.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Lancaster, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for highly-regarded daycare centers and for infant care slots in Lancaster. Due to high demand and limited infant-to-staff ratios, it is strongly recommended that parents begin their search at least 6 to 9 months before their needed start date. For popular centers, you may even need to get on a list during pregnancy. It's a good strategy to get on multiple waitlists and to follow up periodically. Family childcare homes may have more immediate openings but can also fill quickly. Starting your search early allows you to thoroughly visit facilities, compare options, and secure a spot without last-minute stress.
What are some of the local resources in Lancaster for finding and comparing childcare options?
The primary local resource is the **Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)**, which serves the Antelope Valley. They offer a free referral service that matches families with licensed providers based on their specific needs (location, hours, child's age, etc.). You can access their services online or by calling their office. Additionally, the **Antelope Valley Union High School District** and **Lancaster School District** often have information about district-affiliated preschool programs. For informal networking, local Facebook groups like "Lancaster, CA Moms" or "Antelope Valley Parents" are frequently used by parents to share recommendations and experiences with local daycares and nannies.
What should I look for during a tour of a potential daycare in Lancaster, considering the local environment?
When touring a daycare in Lancaster, pay attention to both universal standards and local factors. First, ensure the license is visibly posted. Observe the outdoor play areas: are they shaded and protected from the high desert sun and wind, which are common in the Antelope Valley? Ask about their policies for extreme heat days. Inquire about their emergency preparedness for local concerns, such as earthquakes or seasonal wildfires, including evacuation plans. Notice if the facility is clean, cool, and well-ventilated. Ask about staff qualifications and turnover rates. Finally, trust your instincts on the general atmosphere and how caregivers interact with the children. A good provider will welcome your questions and be transparent about their daily routines and safety protocols.