The Best Daycare Centers in Susanville, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Susanville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Susanville
Susanville Child Development Center
Lassen County Office of Education
Susanville Child Development Center is a highly-regarded facility operated by the Lassen County Office of Education, offering comprehensive early childhood programs with a strong focus on school readiness. The center implements a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, and social-emotional development through hands-on learning activities. Staff members hold California Child Development permits and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Parents praise the center's structured daily routines, nutritious meal program, and excellent communication about child progress. Safety protocols include secured entry systems, regular drills, and thorough background checks for all staff.
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Lassen Community College Child Development Center
Lassen Community College
Located on the Lassen Community College campus, this child development center serves as both a childcare facility and a training lab for early childhood education students. The program emphasizes developmentally appropriate practices with a play-based learning approach that incorporates STEM activities, creative arts, and language development. Lead teachers hold bachelor's degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. Facilities include modern classrooms, dedicated nap areas, and enriched outdoor learning environments. The center is noted for its diverse curriculum, inclusive atmosphere, and strong parent partnership model. Safety features include 24/7 security monitoring, comprehensive health policies, and regular facility inspections.
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Chester Child Development Center
Plumas County Office of Education
Serving families throughout the Susanville region, Chester Child Development Center offers a high-quality early education program with a focus on whole-child development. The curriculum blends structured academic preparation with creative exploration, featuring music, movement, and nature-based learning activities. Certified teachers implement individualized learning plans and maintain detailed progress records. The facility includes spacious classrooms, modern playground equipment, and dedicated art and music areas. Parents consistently commend the center's experienced staff, engaging educational programs, and safe, nurturing environment. The center maintains rigorous safety standards including secured premises, emergency preparedness plans, and strict hygiene protocols.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Susanville, CA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Susanville, CA?
In Susanville, the cost of childcare is generally lower than the California state average but can vary based on the type of program and the child's age. For a full-time, licensed daycare center, parents can expect to pay approximately $600 to $900 per month. In-home family childcare homes are often more affordable, typically ranging from $500 to $750 monthly. Preschool programs may have similar pricing. It's important to note that these are estimates, and rates can differ. Many families in Lassen County may qualify for financial assistance through the California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP) or CalWORKs Stage 1 childcare, which can significantly offset costs. Always inquire directly with providers for their current rates and ask about any available sibling discounts.
How can I find and verify licensed childcare providers in Susanville?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare in Susanville is through the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) "Child Care Licensing" website. You can search for licensed family childcare homes and daycare centers by zip code (96130). Additionally, the local resource and referral agency, **Child Care Coordinating Council of the North Coast (4Cs)**, serves Lassen County and can provide personalized referrals, availability checks, and information on subsidies. You can contact them at (530) 257-9782. Always verify a provider's license status online and look for their license number posted at the facility. In Susanville, due to the rural setting, many providers are small, home-based operations, so a personal visit is highly recommended to assess the environment.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Susanville, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of licensed providers in Susanville and the surrounding rural areas of Lassen County, waitlists are common, especially for infants and toddlers. It is strongly advised to begin your search at least 3 to 6 months before you need care, and if you are expecting, adding your name to lists during your second trimester is a good strategy. Some popular centers or home-based providers may have waitlists exceeding 6 months. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and policy. Being flexible with your start date and considering both centers and family childcare homes can increase your chances of finding an opening sooner.
What are the options for childcare for non-traditional work hours (evenings, weekends, or overnight) in Susanville?
Finding childcare for non-traditional hours in a small community like Susanville can be challenging, as most licensed providers operate on standard weekday schedules (approximately 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM). Your best options are to: 1) Inquire directly with licensed family childcare homes, as some may offer flexible or part-time evening care. 2) Explore unlicensed, legally exempt options like a trusted neighbor or nanny share, ensuring you conduct thorough background checks and reference checks. 3) Check with your employer, as some local entities like the hospital or correctional facilities may have resources or employee networks. 4) Contact the 4Cs referral agency, as they may maintain a list of providers willing to accommodate shift work. Planning and networking within the community are essential for securing this type of care.
What local resources or programs are available to help parents with childcare costs and early education in Susanville?
Susanville parents have access to several key resources. For financial aid, the **California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP)** helps eligible families pay for licensed or license-exempt care. The **CalWORKs** program also offers childcare subsidies for participants. For early education, the **Lassen Union High School District** operates state preschool programs, and **Head Start** services are available through the Northeastern California Community Services Agency, offering comprehensive early childhood education for income-eligible families. Additionally, the **Family Resource Center of Lassen County** can provide guidance and support. For direct referrals and information on all these programs, contacting the Child Care Coordinating Council (4Cs) is the most efficient first step.