The Best Daycare Centers in Taft, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Taft. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Taft
Taft Child Development Center
Kern County Child Development Centers
Taft Child Development Center is a highly-regarded local facility operated by Kern County Child Development Centers, offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center emphasizes a play-based learning approach aligned with California's Desired Results Developmental Profile, focusing on social-emotional development, language literacy, and cognitive skills. Staff members hold Child Development Associate credentials or higher, with low teacher-to-child ratios ensuring personalized attention. The facility features secure access controls, updated playground equipment, and nutritionally balanced meals through the CACFP program. Parents praise the center's strong communication, inclusive environment, and consistent tracking of developmental milestones, making it a trusted choice for Taft families seeking quality care.
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KinderCare Learning Center at White Lane
KinderCare Education
This KinderCare center serves families across Kern County, including Taft, with a research-based curriculum that includes phonics-based reading readiness, STEM activities, and social skills development. The facility maintains enhanced safety protocols with secured entry systems, daily health screenings, and CPR-certified teachers. Classrooms are designed with age-appropriate learning centers, and the outdoor play area includes nature-based exploration spaces. The center offers flexible scheduling and nutritious meals, with staff participating in ongoing professional development. High parent satisfaction stems from their transparent communication through the KinderCare app and strong academic preparedness for kindergarten.
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Childtime of Bakersfield on Rosedale
Childtime Learning Centers
Childtime provides high-quality early education serving the Taft area with a proprietary curriculum that balances academic readiness and creative expression. Their Lifeskills program incorporates character development, while technology-enhanced learning stations support literacy and math skills. The center features secure keypad entry, sanitization protocols, and fenced playgrounds with safety surfaces. Teachers maintain early childhood education credentials and participate in continuous training. Parents value the consistent updates through electronic daily reports, inclusive community events, and emphasis on cultural diversity. The center's longevity and robust enrollment reflect its reputation for reliable, educational childcare in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Taft, CA
What are the typical costs for daycare or preschool in Taft, CA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Taft, CA, daycare costs are generally more affordable than in larger California cities but can vary. For a licensed in-home daycare, you might pay between $600-$850 per month for full-time infant care, while preschool programs for toddlers can range from $500-$750 per month. Local centers may have slightly higher rates. For financial assistance, Kern County, which Taft is part of, administers the California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP) and the California State Preschool Program (CSPP) for income-eligible families. You can apply through the Kern County Superintendent of Schools office or local providers like the Taft City School District, which may offer subsidized preschool slots. It's also worth checking with local faith-based centers, which sometimes offer lower rates or scholarships.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Taft is properly licensed, and what are the key state regulations I should know about?
All licensed daycare facilities in Taft must be registered with the California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division. You can verify a provider's license, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the online "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the CDSS website or by calling their regional office. Key California regulations include: a staff-to-child ratio of 1:4 for infants, 1:12 for preschoolers in centers, and smaller ratios for home-based care; mandatory background checks for all staff; and health and safety training requirements. In Taft, many providers are licensed family child care homes, which are smaller, home-based settings serving up to 8 or 14 children.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Taft, and when should I start looking for childcare?
Due to Taft's smaller size and limited number of dedicated daycare centers, popular providers and preschool programs can have waitlists, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended to start your search at least 6-9 months before you need care, and if you have an infant, even earlier. Many local in-home family daycare providers may have more immediate openings but still require advance planning. For programs tied to the school year, like the Taft City School District's preschool, registration typically begins in the spring for a fall start. Contacting providers directly for their current waitlist status is the best approach.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Taft, CA?
Taft primarily offers two types of licensed childcare: Family Child Care Homes (FCCHs) and Child Care Centers. FCCHs are the most prevalent, where care is provided in a caregiver's residence, offering a home-like environment with mixed-age groups. There are also a few licensed childcare centers, including programs operated by the Taft City School District (like State Preschool) and private or faith-based centers (e.g., at local churches). Due to the rural nature of the area, options like large corporate chains are not present. For school-age children, the Taft Boys & Girls Club provides after-school care. Finding a nanny or shared nanny arrangement is less common but possible through local networks.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in Taft, and are there any local resources to help me compare options?
During a tour in Taft, look for: a valid license posted; a clean, safe, and child-proofed environment; engaged and trained staff; a clear daily schedule; and opportunities for outdoor play. Ask about their emergency plans, illness policies, and how they communicate with parents. Given Taft's location, inquire about their plan for extreme heat. For comparing options, use the Kern County Child Care Resource and Referral program, which can provide free, personalized lists of licensed providers in the Taft area. Also, consult local Facebook groups (e.g., "Taft, CA Community Board") for parent recommendations and insights, as word-of-mouth is very valuable in a close-knit community like Taft.