The Best Daycare Centers in Moorpark, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Moorpark. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Moorpark
The Goddard School of Moorpark
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Moorpark offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, clean classrooms. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes play-based learning while preparing children for kindergarten with literacy and math foundations. Parents appreciate the regular communication through daily reports and the strong sense of community.
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Sunshine Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Sunshine Daycare & Preschool provides a nurturing, home-like environment with a structured educational program. Their curriculum focuses on developmental milestones through hands-on activities, creative arts, and outdoor exploration. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs experienced early childhood educators. Safety features include secured premises, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness protocols. The program includes nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent-teacher conferences, and developmental assessments. Families value the personalized attention and the balance between structured learning and free play that allows children to develop at their own pace.
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Montessori School of Thousand Oaks
Independent
Located just minutes from Moorpark in neighboring Thousand Oaks, this authentic Montessori school serves families throughout the region. The school follows AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) standards with certified Montessori teachers guiding children through individualized learning paths. Classrooms are carefully prepared environments with specialized Montessori materials that promote independence, concentration, and love of learning. The program emphasizes practical life skills, sensorial development, language, mathematics, and cultural studies. The campus features beautiful outdoor environments, gardens, and natural play spaces. Many Moorpark families choose this school for its exceptional teacher qualifications, peaceful learning environment, and proven track record of preparing children for academic success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Moorpark, CA
What are the typical costs for full-time infant and toddler daycare in Moorpark, CA?
In Moorpark, full-time daycare costs vary based on the type of facility and the child's age. For infants (under 2 years), you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month at a licensed daycare center. For toddlers (ages 2-3), costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,500 per month. In-home family childcare is often slightly less expensive, ranging from $1,000 to $1,400 for infants. Moorpark's costs are generally in line with Ventura County averages but can be lower than those in neighboring cities like Thousand Oaks. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and enrichment activities.
How do I find and verify the license of a childcare provider in Moorpark?
All legal childcare providers in Moorpark must be licensed by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). You can search for licensed facilities using the state's online "Child Care Licensing" portal. Simply enter "Moorpark" and the provider type (e.g., Family Child Care Home or Child Care Center). The license report will show the facility's status, any past violations, and the number of children they are authorized to care for. You can also call the local Regional Licensing Office for Ventura County. Always verify the license is current and ask the provider for a copy during your tour. This is a crucial step for ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Moorpark, and how can I navigate them?
Yes, waitlists are common for many of the popular daycare centers and preschools in Moorpark, especially for infant spots, which are in high demand. It's not unusual for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long. To navigate this, start your search during your pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before you need care. Get on multiple waitlists (even if there's a small fee) and check in with providers every 4-6 weeks to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Moorpark neighborhoods, as they may have more immediate availability and shorter waitlists.
What local resources in Moorpark can help me find and afford quality childcare?
Moorpark parents have several key local resources. First, the **Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) program** through the Child Development Resources of Ventura County (CDRVC) offers free personalized referrals to licensed providers. They can be contacted online or by phone. For financial assistance, eligible families can apply for state subsidies through the **California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP)** or the **California State Preschool Program (CSPP)**, which are administered locally. Additionally, the **Moorpark Unified School District** offers preschool programs at some elementary school sites, which can be a more affordable option.
What are some unique features or programs offered by Moorpark daycare providers that I should look for?
Many Moorpark daycare providers leverage the city's community-focused, semi-rural environment. Look for programs that include outdoor learning and nature exploration, taking advantage of the nearby parks and trails. Some centers offer Spanish language immersion, reflecting the local demographic. Given Moorpark's strong agricultural history (especially strawberries and citrus), some providers incorporate garden-based learning where children help plant and harvest. Furthermore, with Moorpark College in the community, some centers partner with early childhood education students for enrichment activities. When touring, ask about their approach to outdoor time, local field trips (e.g., to the Moorpark College Teaching Zoo or Underwood Family Farms), and any specialized enrichment curricula.