The Best Daycare Centers in Likely, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Likely. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Likely
Modoc Montessori School
Independent
Modoc Montessori School offers authentic Montessori education with certified AMI-trained teachers and mixed-age classrooms. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, independence, and individualized development. Facilities include carefully designed Montessori materials, outdoor learning spaces, and peaceful classroom environments. The school serves families throughout Modoc County with a focus on developing the whole child through practical life skills, sensory education, and academic foundations. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention and strong teacher-child relationships.
Daycare Services:
Lassen Community College Child Development Center
Lassen Community College
Operated by Lassen Community College, this center provides high-quality early childhood education while serving as a training facility for early childhood education students. The program follows developmentally appropriate practices with a play-based curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM concepts. Features include low teacher-to-child ratios, qualified lead teachers with ECE degrees, nutritious meal programs, and comprehensive safety protocols. The center maintains strong partnerships with families and offers flexible scheduling options for working parents.
Daycare Services:
Little Learners Preschool & Daycare
Independent
Little Learners provides comprehensive early childhood education with a balanced approach that combines structured learning and creative play. The curriculum focuses on kindergarten readiness through literacy development, math concepts, and social skills. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and modern safety systems including coded entry and comprehensive monitoring. Staff members hold California Child Development Permits and receive ongoing professional development. The center emphasizes parent communication through daily reports, regular conferences, and family engagement events.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Likely, CA
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Likely, CA, given its rural location?
In rural Likely, CA, licensed childcare options are primarily Family Child Care Homes (FCCHs), which are small, home-based programs licensed for up to 8 or 14 children. Due to the small population, there are no large childcare centers in the immediate area. Parents may also find license-exempt care, such as care provided by a relative, neighbor, or babysitter, which is common in remote communities. For more structured programs, some families in Modoc County look to nearby larger towns like Alturas, approximately 30 miles away. It's crucial to verify licensing through the California Department of Social Services' online "Child Care Licensing" portal or by contacting the local Regional Office to ensure safety and quality standards are met.
How can I find and vet potential daycare providers in Likely, CA?
Finding providers in a small community like Likely relies heavily on local networks. Start by asking for recommendations from neighbors, local community groups, or the Modoc County Office of Education. You can use the state's official resource, the California Child Care Resource & Referral Network, though they may refer you to the nearest agency serving Modoc County. When vetting, always ask for the provider's license number and check their status and any history of violations on the CDSS website. Schedule an in-person visit to observe cleanliness, safety measures (like covered outlets and secure gates), and caregiver-child interactions. Don't hesitate to ask for references from other local parents.
What are the typical costs for daycare in Likely, and is there financial assistance available?
In Likely and surrounding Modoc County, childcare costs for a Family Child Care Home are generally lower than state averages but can vary significantly. You might expect to pay between $600 to $900 per month for full-time care for an infant or toddler. Financial assistance is available for eligible families through the California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP) and the CalWORKs Child Care program, administered locally by the Modoc County Department of Social Services. Additionally, you may qualify for the California Earned Income Tax Credit or the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit. It's important to apply early, as funding can be limited in rural counties.
Are there long waitlists for childcare in Likely, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in Likely, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search at least 3 to 6 months before their needed start date, or even earlier if possible. When you contact a provider, ask directly about their current availability and waitlist policy. Be prepared to be flexible and consider expanding your search to include licensed homes in nearby communities like Cedarville or Alturas. Building a relationship with a few providers and checking in periodically can improve your chances of securing a spot.
What specific state licensing regulations and safety standards should I expect a daycare in Likely to follow?
All licensed childcare providers in Likely must adhere to California's strict Title 22 regulations. Key standards include: maintaining a specific staff-to-child ratio (e.g., 1:4 for infants), ensuring all staff have passed background checks and have health screenings and immunizations, providing safe sleep practices for infants (on their backs, in a crib), and having emergency disaster plans. Given Likely's remote location, ask providers about their plan for emergencies like wildfires, winter storms, or medical situations, including evacuation routes and communication protocols. The facility should also be childproofed and have a clean, hazard-free environment. You have the right to review the provider's licensing file, which documents compliance.