The Best Daycare Centers in Surfside, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Surfside. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Surfside
KinderCare Learning Center at Huntington Beach
KinderCare Education
KinderCare at Huntington Beach is a highly-regarded center known for its research-based Early Foundations curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, with lead teachers holding early childhood education credentials and ongoing professional development. Safety is prioritized with secured entry systems, regular drills, and health protocols. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and a focus on inclusive, play-based learning. Parents praise the consistent communication and individualized attention to developmental milestones, making it a trusted choice for families in the Surfside area.
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Bright Horizons at Newport Beach
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons in Newport Beach offers a world-class educational approach with their Emergent Curriculum, which adapts to children's interests and promotes critical thinking through hands-on projects. The center boasts highly qualified staff, including teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education, and maintains rigorous safety standards with background checks and real-time parent updates via an app. Facilities feature modern learning environments, natural outdoor spaces, and nutritious meal programs. It is celebrated for its strong parent partnerships and focus on preparing children for kindergarten, serving the Surfside community with flexibility and high-quality care.
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The Goddard School of Huntington Beach
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Huntington Beach stands out with its F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), blending academic readiness with creative play and STEAM activities. The school employs experienced educators with early childhood certifications and offers a safe, nurturing environment with secure access, sanitization protocols, and spacious indoor/outdoor play areas. Emphasis is placed on social skills, literacy, and individualized learning plans, supported by regular progress reports. Parents value the school's commitment to diversity and community involvement, making it a top choice for Surfside families seeking a balanced and enriching childcare experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Surfside, CA
What are the typical costs for infant and toddler daycare in Surfside, CA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Surfside, CA, daycare costs are generally on par with the higher Orange County average due to its coastal location. For infants (under 2 years), parents can expect to pay between $1,800 to $2,400 per month for a licensed center. Toddler care (ages 2-3) typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,000 monthly. Home-based family childcare may be slightly less expensive. For financial assistance, California offers the CalWORKs Stage 1 Child Care program and the Alternative Payment Program (APP) for income-eligible families. Locally, you can contact the Orange County Child Care and Development Planning Council or the 2-1-1 Orange County hotline for referrals and guidance on subsidy applications. Surfside parents should also inquire directly with daycare providers about any available sibling discounts or private scholarships.
How long are the waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Surfside, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for high-quality, licensed daycare centers in Surfside can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. This is due to high demand and limited facility space in the community. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Apply to multiple centers, including those in neighboring communities like Sunset Beach or Huntington Harbour. When applying, ask specific questions: your exact position on the list, if there's a fee to join, and how often they update it. Consider placing your child on a waitlist even if the timing isn't perfect, as spots can open unexpectedly. Exploring licensed family childcare homes can also provide more immediate availability and a smaller group setting.
What are the key state licensing requirements I should verify when touring a daycare in Surfside?
All childcare providers in Surfside must be licensed by the California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division. Key requirements to verify include: staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:12 for preschoolers), background checks (fingerprinting) for all employees, current pediatric CPR/First Aid certification for staff, and mandated reporter training for child abuse prevention. Licensed facilities must also post their license, have a disaster plan (important for coastal areas), and meet health and safety standards. You can look up a provider's license status, inspection reports, and any citations online through the CDSS "Child Care Licensing" public search tool. Don't hesitate to ask the director to see their license and latest inspection report during your tour.
Are there daycare options in Surfside that offer flexible or part-time schedules for parents with non-traditional work hours?
Finding flexible or part-time daycare in Surfside can be challenging, as most centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 7:00 am to 6:00 pm schedule and require full-time enrollment. However, some licensed family childcare homes may offer more flexibility with part-day, half-week, or drop-in care. Another growing option is to use a reputable nanny share with another Surfside family, which can offer highly customizable hours. For parents with shift work or irregular hours, it's crucial to communicate needs upfront. You can also search for providers on platforms like Care.com, filtering for Surfside and specifying your schedule needs. Be prepared that flexible care often comes at a premium rate or requires a guaranteed minimum number of hours per week.
What unique amenities or program focuses are common among Surfside daycares due to its coastal community?
Reflecting its beachside environment, many daycares in Surfside incorporate nature and outdoor learning into their programs. Common amenities may include secured outdoor play areas with sand and water features, shaded spaces for sun protection, and programs focused on environmental science and ocean awareness. You might find "Beach Day" themes, lessons on local marine life, and an emphasis on physical activity and outdoor play. Given the sunny climate, inquire about sun safety policies (hats, sunscreen application) and hydration routines. Some centers may also offer optional enrichment activities like introductory swim safety classes (often conducted at off-site pools). The coastal lifestyle often influences a focus on community, outdoor exploration, and healthy living within the curriculum.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Surfside: