The Best Daycare Centers in Long Beach, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Long Beach. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Long Beach
KinderCare at Long Beach - Atherton
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Long Beach - Atherton is highly regarded for its comprehensive, play-based curriculum that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. The center employs state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios to ensure personalized attention. Facilities include secure, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and a focus on safety with coded entry systems and regular drills. The curriculum incorporates literacy, math, and science activities aligned with California early learning standards, and parents appreciate the consistent communication through daily reports and family engagement events. What sets this center apart is its strong track record in preparing children for kindergarten through structured yet flexible learning environments and its inclusive approach to diverse family needs.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Long Beach
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Long Beach stands out for its research-based World at Their Fingertips curriculum, which emphasizes hands-on learning, creativity, and critical thinking skills. The center features highly qualified educators with degrees in early childhood education and ongoing professional development. Safety is a top priority, with secure facilities, health protocols, and nutritious meal programs. The indoor and outdoor environments are designed to foster exploration, with dedicated spaces for art, music, and physical activities. Parents consistently praise the center for its strong communication, cultural inclusivity, and ability to support children's developmental milestones through individualized learning plans. Its affiliation with a national network adds resources and stability, making it a trusted choice for families.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Long Beach
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Long Beach is celebrated for its F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum, which blends play-based learning with academic foundations in literacy, STEM, and social skills. Led by experienced teachers with early childhood certifications, the school maintains low student-teacher ratios and emphasizes safety through secure access, clean facilities, and emergency preparedness. The campus includes modern classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and enrichment areas for music and art. Parents highlight the school's focus on whole-child development, regular progress updates, and flexible scheduling options. Its strong community involvement and commitment to fostering independence and curiosity make it a top choice for families seeking a nurturing and educational environment.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Long Beach, CA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Long Beach, CA, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Long Beach, the average cost for full-time infant care ranges from $1,400 to $2,200 per month, while toddler care typically costs between $1,200 and $1,800 per month. These rates can vary based on the facility's location, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Long Beach parents can apply for subsidies through the California Department of Social Services' Alternative Payment Program (APP) or the CalWORKs Child Care program. Additionally, the Long Beach Early Childhood Education Committee (LBECEC) and the Child Care Resource Center (CCRC) serving the region can help families navigate eligibility for state and local aid, including the California State Preschool Program (CSPP) for income-qualified families.
How can I verify the license and inspection history of a daycare provider in Long Beach?
All licensed childcare facilities in Long Beach are regulated by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history by using the "Child Care Licensing Lookup" tool on the CDSS website. Simply enter the provider's name, facility number, or location. This report will show the license status, capacity, any cited violations, and the dates of recent inspections. For additional local insights, you can contact the Child Care Resource Center (CCRC) or the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services, which may have community-specific information or can guide you through the state database.
Are there many daycare centers in Long Beach that offer extended hours or weekend care for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
While most traditional daycare centers in Long Beach operate on a standard weekday schedule (e.g., 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM), options for extended hours, overnight, or weekend care are more limited but do exist. Some family childcare homes (FCCs) and specialized centers, particularly those near the Port of Long Beach, Downtown, or hospital districts, may offer flexible hours to accommodate shift workers. It's recommended to search specifically for "24-hour daycare" or "off-hours childcare" on local directories like Winnie.com or through referrals from the Long Beach Child Care Resource Center. Be prepared for potentially higher rates and longer waitlists for these niche services.
What are the typical waitlist times for highly-rated daycare centers and preschools in Long Beach, and when should I start my search?
For popular, highly-rated centers and preschools in neighborhoods like Belmont Shore, Bixby Knolls, or the Los Altos area, waitlists can be 6 to 12 months long, especially for infant spots. It is strongly advised to begin your search and application process at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. Many facilities have annual enrollment cycles, with key intake periods in the spring for fall starts. To manage this, create a list of potential providers, get on multiple waitlists (even if there's a small fee), and consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in adjacent neighborhoods, which may have shorter wait times.
Does the City of Long Beach offer any public or subsidized preschool programs for 3- and 4-year-olds?
Yes, the City of Long Beach, through the Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) and in partnership with the state, offers several public preschool options. The California State Preschool Program (CSPP) provides free, high-quality part-day and full-day programs for income-eligible 3- and 4-year-olds at various school sites and community-based locations throughout the city. Additionally, LBUSD operates Transitional Kindergarten (TK) for children who turn 5 between September and June. Enrollment for these programs is managed through the LBUSD Early Childhood Education office, and parents are encouraged to apply early, as spots are in high demand. Information and applications are available on the LBUSD website.