The Best Daycare Centers in Paramount, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Paramount. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Paramount
Paramount KinderCare
KinderCare Learning Companies
Paramount KinderCare offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features dedicated learning centers for different age groups, secure entry systems, and experienced teachers with early childhood education credentials. Their program includes daily communication with parents through the KinderCare app, nutritious meals and snacks, and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. The center stands out for its structured learning environment that balances academic preparation with social development and creative expression.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Lakewood
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Located just minutes from Paramount in Lakewood, Bright Horizons provides a high-quality early education program with their World at Their Fingers curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and developmentally appropriate practices. The center features modern classrooms with natural lighting, secure outdoor playgrounds, and highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education. Their program includes Spanish language exposure, STEM activities, and comprehensive safety protocols. The center is known for its strong parent-teacher partnerships and progressive educational approach that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.
Daycare Services:
Children's Creative Learning Center - Downey
Children's Creative Learning Centers
Serving families in Paramount and surrounding communities, Children's Creative Learning Center in Downey offers a play-based curriculum that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and social skills. The center features purpose-built classrooms with learning centers for literacy, math, science, and dramatic play, along with secure outdoor play spaces and comprehensive safety measures. Their experienced teaching staff maintains low student-teacher ratios and implements ongoing assessment to track developmental milestones. The center emphasizes character development, community awareness, and provides enrichment programs including music, movement, and art activities.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Paramount, CA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Paramount, CA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Paramount, CA, the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare typically ranges from $900 to $1,400 per month, depending on the type of facility (in-home vs. center-based), the provider's specific programs, and the child's age. Prices tend to be slightly lower than the Los Angeles County average but are still a significant expense for many families. For financial assistance, Paramount families can apply for California's subsidized childcare programs, primarily through the **Alternative Payment Program (APP)** administered by local agencies like the **Children's Bureau** or **YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles**. Eligibility is based on income, need (such as employment or schooling), and family size. Additionally, you can contact the **Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)**, which serves the region, for personalized referrals and guidance on subsidy applications.
How can I verify the license and safety record of a daycare provider in Paramount?
All licensed daycare providers in Paramount, California, are regulated by the **California Department of Social Services (CDSS), Community Care Licensing Division**. To verify a facility's license and review its compliance history, you can use the state's online **Child Care Licensing Search Tool**. Simply enter the provider's name, facility number, or city (Paramount) to access their official license status, any past citations, and the dates of their most recent inspections. It's highly recommended to review these reports for details on health, safety, and staffing violations. For an additional layer of due diligence, you can also contact the local **Paramount Community Services Department** to see if they have any local registrations or community feedback on providers.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Paramount, and what strategies can help me secure a spot sooner?
Yes, waitlists are common for many licensed daycare centers and highly-regarded in-home providers in Paramount, especially for infant care. Wait times can range from a few months to over a year. To improve your chances, start your search at least 6-12 months before you need care. Be proactive by contacting multiple providers to get on several waitlists simultaneously. Consider expanding your search to neighboring cities like Downey, Bellflower, or Lakewood for more options. In-home family childcare homes often have shorter waitlists and can be a great alternative. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process, how often it's updated, and if they offer priority for siblings or local residents.
What are the key differences between a licensed family childcare home and a daycare center in Paramount, and which might be better for my family?
In Paramount, you'll primarily find two licensed options: **Family Child Care Homes (FCCH)** and **Child Care Centers**. FCCHs are run out of a provider's residence, typically caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of up to 8 or 14 children (depending on license type). They often offer a more home-like, flexible environment and may have more lenient hours. Centers are larger facilities with more structured curricula, multiple classrooms separated by age, and more staff. They may offer more resources and enrichment programs. For Paramount families, a FCCH might be preferable for its potentially lower cost, neighborhood convenience, and family-style care, while a center could be better if you seek a more formal preschool curriculum or have specific scheduling needs. Touring both types in your local area is the best way to decide.
What resources are available in Paramount to help me find and evaluate local childcare options?
Paramount parents have several valuable local resources. Your first stop should be the statewide referral service, **California Child Care Resource and Referral (R&R) Network**, accessed by calling **1-800-543-7793** or visiting their website. This connects you to your local agency, which for Paramount is typically the **Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)**. They offer free, personalized referrals, waitlist assistance, and guidance on quality indicators. Additionally, you can use the **Paramount Unified School District (PUSD)** website and family resource centers, as they sometimes have information on preschool and before/after-school programs. For community-based insights, check local parent groups on social media platforms like Facebook (e.g., "Paramount, CA Community" groups) where residents often share firsthand experiences and recommendations.