The Best Daycare Centers in Somerset, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Somerset. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Somerset
Bright Horizons at Folsom
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Folsom offers a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on school readiness and developmental milestones. The center features NAEYC-accredited programs with experienced early childhood educators who hold degrees in early childhood education. Their World at Their Fingertips curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through hands-on learning. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. Parents appreciate the regular communication through the MyBrightDay app and the center's commitment to creating a nurturing, inclusive environment.
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Primrose School of El Dorado Hills
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of El Dorado Hills provides a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning curriculum, which combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The school features highly qualified teachers with specialized training in early childhood development and maintains low student-teacher ratios. Their facilities include secure campuses with biometric entry, age-specific outdoor learning environments, and dedicated art, music, and STEM rooms. The school emphasizes character development and life skills while providing nutritious meals and snacks. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, cleanliness, and the visible developmental progress in their children.
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Merryhill School - Placerville
Merryhill Schools
Merryhill School in Placerville offers a comprehensive private school education starting from preschool through elementary grades. Their advanced curriculum focuses on STEM education, literacy development, and character building with specialized programs in music, art, and foreign language. The school features state-certified teachers with advanced degrees, small class sizes, and modern facilities including science labs, technology centers, and extensive playgrounds. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness training. Parents value the strong academic foundation, individualized attention, and the school's commitment to fostering both academic excellence and personal growth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Somerset, CA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Somerset, CA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Somerset, CA, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while preschool for toddlers and older children generally costs between $900 and $1,300 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors like the program's curriculum, staff-to-child ratios, and facility amenities. For financial assistance, parents should explore the California Department of Education's Child Care and Development Programs, which include subsidies for eligible families based on income, need, and family size. Additionally, the El Dorado County Office of Education can provide referrals to local resource and referral agencies that help navigate subsidy applications and may have information on sliding-scale fees offered by some local providers.
How do I verify a daycare or childcare provider's license and safety record in Somerset, CA?
All licensed childcare providers in Somerset, CA, are regulated by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) Community Care Licensing Division. You can verify a facility's license and review its compliance history by using the CDSS "Child Care Facility Search" tool online. Simply enter the provider's name or license number to access inspection reports, any citations, and the license status. It's also highly recommended to visit the facility in person, ask about their emergency preparedness plans for local concerns like wildfires, and confirm that all staff are background-checked and have current pediatric CPR and First Aid certifications, as required by state law.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Somerset, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, due to the rural nature of Somerset and limited number of dedicated childcare centers, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care and popular preschool programs. It is advisable to begin your search at least 6 to 12 months before you need care. Many families in the area start researching and placing their names on lists during pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and if they offer priority for siblings or local residents. Exploring a mix of licensed family daycare homes (which are more prevalent in rural areas like Somerset) and center-based options can increase your chances of securing a spot.
What are the main types of childcare available in Somerset, and how do they differ?
Somerset primarily offers two types of licensed childcare: Family Childcare Homes (FCCH) and Childcare Centers. FCCHs are run out of a provider's residence, are often smaller (serving up to 8 or 14 children), and can offer a more home-like, flexible environment. Centers are larger facilities with more structured programs and multiple staff. Given Somerset's rural setting, FCCHs are a crucial part of the childcare ecosystem. There are also a limited number of private preschools, often with specific educational philosophies (like Montessori or play-based). For school-age children, the Somerset Unified School District may offer before and after-school programs at local elementary schools.
What should I consider regarding operating hours and location given Somerset's rural setting?
Somerset's rural location means childcare options are more spread out and may have operating hours that align with longer commutes common for parents working in Placerville, South Lake Tahoe, or even the Sacramento area. Key considerations include: a provider's exact hours of operation (many close by 5:30 or 6 PM), their policy on late pick-ups, and your own commute time. It's essential to factor in potential seasonal weather impacts on travel, especially in winter. When touring, ask about their closure policies for snow days or poor air quality from wildfires. Choosing a provider closer to your home or along your primary commute route can significantly reduce daily stress.