The Best Daycare Centers in North Hollywood, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in North Hollywood. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in North Hollywood
The Learning Experience - North Hollywood
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in North Hollywood offers a comprehensive early education curriculum with proprietary programs like L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program). The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and surveillance cameras. Their curriculum includes phonics, foreign language exposure, manners and etiquette, and STEM activities. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, modern classrooms with interactive technology, and a nutrition program that provides balanced meals. Parents praise the consistent communication through their mobile app and the center's focus on both academic and social-emotional development.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Studio City
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Located just minutes from North Hollywood, Bright Horizons at Studio City provides high-quality early education with their World at Their Fingers curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science, and creative arts. The center maintains NAEYC accreditation and employs teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and emergency preparedness protocols. The facility features natural light-filled classrooms, outdoor learning environments, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. Parents appreciate the strong focus on individualized learning plans and the center's commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Burbank
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Burbank serves the North Hollywood area with their Life Essentials curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The center features STEM labs, interactive whiteboards, and purpose-built learning spaces designed for different age groups. Their safety protocols include biometric check-in systems, secured perimeters, and comprehensive health and cleanliness procedures. The academy employs credentialed early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. The program includes technology integration, music and movement, and community awareness activities. Families consistently praise the warm, nurturing environment and the center's effective communication about child development milestones.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in North Hollywood, CA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in North Hollywood, CA?
In North Hollywood, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $1,400 to $1,900 per month. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, averaging between $1,200 and $1,700 per month. These rates are influenced by factors such as the center's accreditation (like NAEYC), staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities (e.g., organic meals, enrichment programs). Licensed family childcare homes in the area can be more affordable, often ranging from $900 to $1,400 monthly. It's important to note that these costs are generally lower than in neighboring areas like Studio City or Burbank, but still represent a significant portion of a family's budget. California does not have statewide price controls, so shopping around is essential.
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in North Hollywood, and how can I secure a spot?
For highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in North Hollywood, especially those with strong educational philosophies (like Montessori or Reggio Emilia), waitlists can be 6 to 12 months long, and sometimes longer for infant rooms. To improve your chances, start your search during your pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. Be proactive: schedule tours, submit applications (and often a non-refundable fee) to multiple centers, and ask specific questions about your child's place on the list. Many centers prioritize siblings of current students. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare providers in the surrounding neighborhoods of Valley Village and Toluca Lake, as they may have more immediate availability and shorter lists.
What are the key state licensing requirements I should verify when touring a daycare in North Hollywood?
All legal childcare providers in North Hollywood must be licensed by the California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division. Key requirements you should verify include: a valid license posted visibly, mandated staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:12 for preschoolers), background checks (including fingerprinting) for all staff and volunteers, and current pediatric CPR/First Aid certification for teachers. Licensed facilities must also have documented disaster plans (crucial for earthquake preparedness) and meet health and safety standards for facilities. You can and should check a provider's compliance history and any past violations for free on the CDSS website using their facility number.
Are there any local North Hollywood programs or resources that help with childcare costs?
Yes, there are several local and state resources. The primary program is the California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP) and the California State Preschool Program (CSPP), administered locally by agencies like the Child Care Resource Center (CCRC), which has a strong presence in the San Fernando Valley. Eligibility is based on family income, size, and need (such as employment or school attendance). Additionally, the City of Los Angeles offers the "L.A. Kids" program, which may provide subsidies or fee assistance. It's highly recommended to contact the CCRC directly or visit their North Hollywood office to determine your eligibility and get on their referral lists, as funding is limited and waitlists for subsidies can be long.
What are some North Hollywood-specific factors to consider regarding location and commute when choosing a daycare?
North Hollywood's location creates unique commute considerations. First, assess proximity to major traffic corridors like the 170, 101, and 134 freeways, as your pickup/drop-off time may coincide with rush hour. A center just a few blocks from a freeway onramp can save significant time. Second, consider the Metro B Line (Red Line) stations; if you commute via subway, a daycare near the North Hollywood Station could be extremely convenient. Third, be mindful of the "NoHo Arts District" and studio lots; traffic can surge during event nights or production shifts. Finally, inquire about the center's parking situation—does it have dedicated, safe pickup/drop-off lanes, or will you be competing for street parking in a dense neighborhood? A convenient location is often worth a slightly higher cost for daily sanity.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near North Hollywood: