The Best Daycare Centers in Sunland, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sunland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sunland
Sunland-Tujunga Little Angels Preschool & Child Care
Independent Family-Owned Center
A highly-regarded family-owned childcare center serving Sunland and Tujunga with a comprehensive educational program. Features a play-based learning curriculum combined with structured academic preparation for kindergarten readiness. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators, many with 5+ years of experience. Facilities include secure outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and modern classrooms with Montessori-inspired learning materials. Emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy foundation, and creative expression through art and music programs. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and the center's commitment to individualized attention for each child.
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Tujunga Learning Tree Preschool
Independent Educational Center
Located just minutes from Sunland in neighboring Tujunga, this established preschool offers a robust academic foundation through hands-on learning experiences. The curriculum blends traditional preschool education with STEM activities, language development, and social skills building. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices with small class sizes ensuring personalized attention. The facility features secure indoor learning environments, an enclosed playground with safety surfacing, and dedicated art and music spaces. Notable for their comprehensive kindergarten readiness program that includes phonics, early math concepts, and independent learning skills. Highly rated for teacher qualifications, with most staff holding early childhood education degrees and ongoing professional development.
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Sunshine Daycare & Preschool
Sunshine Early Learning Centers
A well-established childcare provider serving the Sunland-Tujunga community with a balanced approach to early childhood education. The center offers a structured yet flexible curriculum that incorporates play-based learning, academic preparation, and character development. Specializes in age-appropriate developmental milestones with documented progress tracking for each child. Features secure facilities with coded entry systems, CCTV monitoring, and rigorous safety protocols. The teaching staff includes credentialed early childhood educators with specialized training in infant care, emergent curriculum, and positive discipline techniques. Parents particularly appreciate the nutritious meal program, extended hours flexibility, and the center's focus on creating a warm, inclusive community atmosphere. Regular parent-teacher conferences and detailed daily reports ensure strong family engagement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sunland, CA
What are the typical costs for full-time infant and toddler daycare in Sunland, CA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Sunland, CA, full-time daycare for infants (under 2 years) typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 per month, while toddler care (ages 2-5) generally costs between $1,000 and $1,500 per month. These costs can vary based on the type of facility (in-home daycare vs. center-based), specific programs offered, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Los Angeles County, which includes Sunland, offers subsidies through the California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP) and the CalWORKs Child Care program. Eligibility is based on family income, size, and need. Parents should also contact the Child Care Resource Center (CCRC), which serves the San Fernando Valley area, for direct referrals and guidance on accessing subsidized care and the state's Child Care Tax Credit.
How can I verify the license and safety record of a daycare provider in Sunland?
All licensed daycare facilities in Sunland, whether family child care homes or centers, are regulated by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history for free on the CDSS "Child Care Licensing" website by searching with the facility name or license number. This public portal shows the license status, capacity, any past citations, and the date of the last inspection. For a more in-depth look, you can also file a Public Records Act request with CDSS. Additionally, the local Child Care Resource Center (CCRC) can provide general guidance on red flags and important questions to ask providers during tours regarding their safety protocols and emergency plans specific to Sunland's environment.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Sunland, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for reputable daycare centers and licensed in-home providers in Sunland, especially for infant care slots. Due to high demand and limited availability, parents are strongly advised to begin their search at least 6 to 12 months before their needed start date. For infant care, starting inquiries during pregnancy is not uncommon. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length, any non-refundable deposit to hold a spot, and their policy for moving from the waitlist to an enrolled family. Exploring multiple options, including both centers and licensed family child care homes in the Sunland-Tujunga area, can increase your chances of securing a spot.
What are the main differences between a licensed family child care home and a daycare center in Sunland?
The two primary licensed options in Sunland are Family Child Care Homes (FCC) and Child Care Centers. FCC Homes are run out of the provider's residence, are typically smaller (caring for 6-14 children depending on license type), and often offer a more home-like, mixed-age setting. They may provide more flexible hours. Centers are commercial facilities, usually larger, with classrooms separated by age group, and often follow a more structured educational curriculum. Centers must have a Site Supervisor and a Program Director, while FCC Homes require a single qualified provider. Both are licensed by the state, but centers generally have more staff. Your choice may depend on your child's need for a specific environment, your schedule, and your preference for a smaller, family-style setting versus a larger, institutional one.
What local resources in Sunland can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
The primary local resource is the **Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)**, which serves the San Fernando Valley including Sunland. They offer a free referral service to help parents find licensed providers that match their needs (hours, location, budget). You can access this via their website or by calling their referral line. Additionally, the **Sunland-Tujunga Library** may have community bulletin boards with local provider information, and the **Sunland-Tujunga Neighborhood Council** often shares community news that can include childcare openings. For evaluations, beyond checking the state CDSS website, you can ask providers for references from current Sunland-area parents and visit sites during operating hours to observe interactions and ask about their policies on outdoor play (utilizing local parks like Sunland Park), meals, and screen time.