The Best Daycare Centers in Tarzana, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Tarzana. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Tarzana
The Goddard School of Tarzana
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Tarzana offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains low student-teacher ratios for personalized attention.
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Sunshine Daycare & Preschool
Sunshine Early Learning Centers
Sunshine Daycare & Preschool provides a nurturing environment with a balanced curriculum that combines Montessori-inspired activities with structured learning. Their program includes early literacy, mathematics, science exploration, and creative arts. The center features secure facilities with CCTV monitoring, clean and organized classrooms, and shaded outdoor play areas. Teachers are CPR/First Aid certified and many hold advanced degrees in early childhood education. The center is known for its strong parent communication system and emphasis on social-emotional development through guided play and cooperative learning activities.
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Bright Horizons at Encino
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Encino, serving the Tarzana area, offers the World at Their Fingertips curriculum that integrates literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on learning. The center features purpose-built classrooms, multiple outdoor playgrounds, and enhanced security systems. Their teachers typically hold bachelor's degrees and participate in continuous professional development. The program emphasizes project-based learning and incorporates technology appropriately for early childhood development. Bright Horizons is recognized for its strong health and safety protocols, nutritious meal programs, and comprehensive developmental assessments that track each child's progress.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Tarzana, CA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Tarzana, CA?
In Tarzana, the cost of full-time daycare is significantly higher than the national average, reflecting the Los Angeles area's cost of living. For an infant (under 2 years), parents can expect to pay between $1,800 to $2,500 per month at a licensed daycare center. For toddlers (2-3 years), the range is typically $1,500 to $2,200 per month. Home-based family childcare is often slightly less expensive, ranging from $1,200 to $1,800 monthly. These costs are for basic, full-time care; specialized programs, extended hours, or organic meal programs will be at the higher end. It's crucial to ask what is included in the tuition (e.g., diapers, wipes, meals, enrichment activities).
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Tarzana, and when should I start looking?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Tarzana can be extensive, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant spots. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their research and tours during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool enrollment (starting at age 2 or 3), you should begin looking at least 9-12 months in advance. Many centers in the Tarzana/Encino area have annual enrollment cycles, with key deadlines in the winter for fall start dates. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $50-$150) and to stay in regular contact with the center to express continued interest.
What are the key differences between a licensed daycare center and a licensed family childcare home in Tarzana?
Both are licensed by the California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division, but they operate differently. **Daycare Centers** in Tarzana are often larger facilities, like those on Ventura Blvd or near Reseda Blvd, with multiple classrooms, structured curricula, and several staff members. They may offer more enrichment programs (e.g., music, language). **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate out of a provider's residence in Tarzana neighborhoods. They offer a smaller, home-like environment with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. They often have more flexible hours but a smaller capacity (up to 8 or 14 children, depending on license type). Your choice depends on your child's need for structure versus a family setting, group size preference, and schedule.
Are there any local resources or referral services to help me find and vet childcare options in Tarzana?
Yes, a primary resource is the **Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)**, which serves the San Fernando Valley, including Tarzana. They offer a free referral service to help parents find licensed childcare that matches their needs, location, and budget. You can access their database online or speak with a referral specialist. Additionally, the **California Department of Social Services' "Child Care Licensing" website** allows you to search for licensed providers in the 91356 zip code and view their licensing reports and any history of violations. Local parenting groups on social media (e.g., "Tarzana Moms" on Facebook) are also invaluable for personal recommendations and experiences.
What should I look for during a tour of a potential daycare in Tarzana, and what questions are specific to California regulations?
During a tour, observe cleanliness, child-to-staff ratios, and how staff interact with children. Ask specific questions about their license: "Can I see your current Community Care License?" and "Have you had any recent visitations or citations from Licensing?" Inquire about their emergency preparedness for earthquakes and wildfires, a crucial California-specific concern. Ask about staff qualifications: all lead teachers in a center must have at least 12 core units in Early Childhood Education, and all staff must have pediatric CPR/First Aid certification. Also, confirm their sick policy and how they handle illness, as well as their outdoor play schedule, given Tarzana's warm climate and air quality advisories. Finally, always ask for references from current parents.