The Best Daycare Centers in San Bernardino, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in San Bernardino. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in San Bernardino
KinderCare at San Bernardino
KinderCare Learning Companies
This established KinderCare location offers a comprehensive educational curriculum with dedicated learning centers for literacy, math, and creative arts. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Their research-based curriculum focuses on developmental milestones with regular progress reports. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritional meal programs. What makes this center stand out is their balanced approach to academic preparation and social-emotional development, with specialized programs for each age group and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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The Goddard School of Redlands
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located just minutes from San Bernardino, The Goddard School of Redlands offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. The center features state-certified teachers with ongoing professional development and maintains exceptional safety protocols including secured facilities and comprehensive background checks. Their STEAM-focused curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, and social development activities. The school stands out for its modern facilities with age-appropriate learning environments, outdoor playgrounds, and emphasis on developing confident, joyful learners through play-based exploration and structured learning activities.
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Montessori Academy of Riverside
Montessori Educational Centers
Serving the greater San Bernardino area, this AMI-recognized Montessori school offers authentic Montessori education with highly trained AMI-certified teachers. The academy provides a carefully prepared environment with specialized Montessori materials that encourage independence, concentration, and love of learning. Their comprehensive program includes practical life skills, sensorial development, language arts, mathematics, and cultural studies. The facility features beautiful classrooms, secure outdoor environments, and organic meal programs. What distinguishes this academy is their commitment to the complete Montessori method, individualized learning plans, mixed-age classrooms that foster peer learning, and strong emphasis on developing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in San Bernardino, CA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in San Bernardino, CA?
In San Bernardino, the average cost for full-time infant or toddler care typically ranges from $800 to $1,200 per month, though prices can vary based on the type of facility. Licensed family daycare homes are often on the lower end of this range, while larger childcare centers or those with specialized curricula may charge more. It's important to note that California offers financial assistance programs like CalWORKs Stage 1 Child Care and the Alternative Payment Program, which many San Bernardino County families qualify for based on income. Always inquire directly with providers for their specific rates and ask if they accept state subsidy vouchers.
How can I verify the license and safety record of a daycare provider in San Bernardino?
All licensed childcare providers in San Bernardino are regulated by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). You can verify a facility's license and review its compliance history for free through the CDSS "Child Care Licensing" website. Simply search by the provider's name, facility number, or location. This report will show the license status, capacity, any past citations for serious violations, and the dates of recent inspections. For an additional layer of local insight, you can contact the San Bernardino County Child Care Resource and Referral agency for guidance and to check if there are any known community concerns about a specific provider.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in San Bernardino, and how far in advance should I apply?
Waitlists are common for many licensed daycare centers and highly-regarded family childcare homes in San Bernardino, especially for infant care slots. It is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and even earlier if possible. Some popular centers may have waitlists exceeding a year. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length and process. In the interim, consider exploring licensed family childcare homes, which may have more immediate openings, or utilizing temporary drop-in care options while you wait for a permanent spot.
What types of state or local subsidized childcare programs are available for low-income families in San Bernardino?
San Bernardino families have access to several key subsidized childcare programs. The primary state programs are CalWORKs Stages 1-3 (for current or former cash aid recipients) and the Alternative Payment (AP) Program, which provides vouchers for use at licensed or license-exempt providers. Locally, the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS) and organizations like the Child Care Resource Center (CCRC) administer these programs. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and need (such as employment or school attendance). The first step is to apply through the San Bernardino County Human Services System or contact a local resource and referral agency for application assistance.
What are the key differences between a licensed childcare center and a licensed family daycare home in San Bernardino?
The two main licensed options in San Bernardino differ in setting, scale, and often, philosophy. **Licensed Childcare Centers** are facilities in commercial or institutional buildings. They typically have more children, multiple staff with structured classrooms, and may offer a formal preschool curriculum. They are often open standard business hours. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate out of the provider's residence. They offer a smaller, home-like environment with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. They often provide more flexible hours but have a smaller capacity (usually 6-14 children). Both are held to state health, safety, and staff-to-child ratio standards, but the intimate setting of a home can appeal to parents seeking a more personalized care approach.