The Best Daycare Centers in Northridge, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Northridge. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Northridge
The Goddard School of Northridge
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Northridge offers a comprehensive play-based learning curriculum that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) incorporates STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides daily communication to parents about their child's activities and progress.
Daycare Services:
Sunshine Day Camp
Sunshine Day Camp
Sunshine Day Camp provides a well-rounded educational experience with a focus on creative expression and physical development. Their curriculum includes music, art, sports, and academic preparation in a nurturing environment. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning spaces. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices and maintain detailed progress reports for each child. The program emphasizes social skills development and offers flexible scheduling options to meet family needs, including part-time and full-time care.
Daycare Services:
Montessori Academy of Northridge
Montessori Educational Centers
Montessori Academy of Northridge implements the authentic Montessori method with certified Montessori teachers guiding children through self-directed learning in prepared environments. The curriculum emphasizes practical life skills, sensorial development, mathematics, language, and cultural studies. The facility features specialized Montessori materials, child-sized furniture, and outdoor learning gardens. Teachers hold Montessori certifications in addition to early childhood education credentials. The program fosters independence, critical thinking, and respect for others while maintaining small class sizes and individualized learning paths for each child.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Northridge, CA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Northridge, CA?
In Northridge, the cost of full-time daycare varies significantly based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,900 per month for infant care, and slightly less for toddlers. In-home family childcare homes are often more affordable, typically ranging from $1,000 to $1,500 monthly. These prices are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that costs in the San Fernando Valley have been rising, so early budgeting is crucial. Parents should also inquire about what is included in the tuition (e.g., meals, diapers, enrichment programs) to accurately compare options.
How can I verify the license and safety record of a daycare provider in Northridge?
All legal childcare providers in Northridge must be licensed by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). You can and should verify a provider's license status and review their compliance history online through the CDSS "Child Care Licensing" public website. Simply search by the provider's name or facility number. This report will show the license type (Center or Family Child Care Home), capacity, any past citations for serious violations, and the date of the last inspection. Additionally, the local resource and referral agency, **Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)**, which serves the San Fernando Valley including Northridge, can provide guidance and information on licensed providers in the area.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Northridge, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Northridge, especially for infant spots. Due to high demand and limited infant-care licenses, it is strongly recommended that parents begin their search **6 to 12 months** before their needed start date. For toddler and preschool programs, a lead time of 3-6 months is more typical but still advisable. Popular centers affiliated with local institutions like California State University, Northridge (CSUN) often have particularly long waits. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist policy, estimated timeline, and if a deposit is required to hold a spot.
What childcare resources or referral services are available specifically for Northridge parents?
The primary resource for Northridge parents is the **Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)**, a state-contracted agency. They offer a free referral service to help parents find licensed childcare that matches their needs (hours, location, budget, etc.). You can contact them via their website or phone line. Additionally, **LA County's Child Care Planning Committee** and the **211 LA County** hotline can provide information on subsidies and programs. For parents affiliated with CSUN, the university's **Child and Family Studies Center** is a lab school option, and the Associated Students organization may also have resources for student-parents.
What are some key differences between daycare centers and family childcare homes in Northridge?
The two main licensed options in Northridge offer distinct environments. **Daycare Centers** are larger facilities, often with multiple classrooms divided by age. They typically follow a more structured educational curriculum, have multiple staff members, and may offer amenities like dedicated playgrounds and commercial kitchens. **Family Child Care Homes** operate out of a provider's residence, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of children (up to 8 or 14, depending on license). This setting often provides a more home-like, flexible atmosphere with potentially lower child-to-adult ratios and may be more accommodating of non-standard hours. Your choice will depend on your child's temperament, your schedule, and your preference for a social or familial setting. Both are regulated by the same state licensing standards for health and safety.