The Best Daycare Centers in Valencia, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Valencia. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Valencia
Bright Horizons at Valencia
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Valencia offers a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on school readiness and whole-child development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their World at Their Fingertips curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social-emotional development through hands-on learning. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning spaces for each age group. Parents praise the consistent communication, experienced staff, and the center's focus on preparing children for kindergarten with strong academic and social foundations.
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The Learning Experience - Valencia
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Valencia provides a proprietary L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that combines academic preparation with social skills and character development. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including coded entry and comprehensive monitoring. Their programs include phonics-based early literacy, foreign language exposure, and motor skills development. The facility offers bright, modern classrooms, indoor and outdoor play areas, and a focus on nutrition with healthy meal options. Parents consistently highlight the caring staff, clean environment, and the visible progress children make in both academic and social development.
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Primrose School of Valencia
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Valencia operates with the Balanced Learning approach, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities to foster curiosity, creativity, and confidence. The curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, mathematics, and science through their exclusive Harmony & Heart music program and literacy-rich environment. The school maintains high safety standards with secure facilities, thorough background checks for staff, and comprehensive health protocols. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. Parents appreciate the structured yet nurturing environment, strong parent-teacher communication, and the school's commitment to developing well-rounded children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Valencia, CA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Valencia, CA?
In Valencia, the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare typically ranges from $1,400 to $1,900 per month, though premium centers or those with specialized curricula can exceed $2,000. This is generally higher than the California state average, reflecting the area's cost of living and demand for quality services. Costs for preschool-age children (3-5 years) are often slightly lower, averaging $1,100 to $1,600 monthly. Prices can vary based on factors like the center's accreditation (e.g., NAEYC), staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities (meals, enrichment programs). It's advisable to budget for potential annual increases and inquire about any registration or supply fees, which are common.
How long are typical waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Valencia, and how can I secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded licensed daycare centers in Valencia can be substantial, especially for infant rooms. It's not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. To improve your chances, we recommend starting your search during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before your needed start date. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $50-$150). Follow up politely every 2-3 months to confirm your spot. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Valencia neighborhoods, which may have shorter wait times and offer a smaller, home-like setting.
What are the key state licensing requirements I should verify when touring a daycare in Valencia?
All childcare providers in Valencia 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** (mandatory for all staff and volunteers via Live Scan fingerprinting), **Pediatric CPR/First Aid Certification** (required for at least one staff member present at all times), and **Health and Safety Training**. You can ask to see the facility's license, which should be posted, and check its compliance history online via the CDSS website for any past violations. Also, ensure the facility meets local Santa Clarita Valley fire and health department standards.
Are there any unique local resources or programs in Valencia to help parents find and evaluate childcare options?
Yes, Valencia parents have several valuable local resources. First, the **Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)**, which serves Los Angeles County including the Santa Clarita Valley, offers a free referral service to help match your family with licensed providers based on your specific needs, location, and budget. They can be accessed online or by phone. Additionally, the **Santa Clarita Valley Child & Family Center** provides resources and may offer guidance. For evaluation, many Valencia parents use local Facebook groups (e.g., "Santa Clarita Valley Moms") for personal recommendations and reviews. The City of Santa Clarita's Parks & Recreation department also offers preschool and enrichment programs that can be part-time childcare solutions.
What are the options for backup or emergency childcare in Valencia if my regular provider is unavailable?
Valencia offers a few solutions for backup childcare needs. Some local daycare centers offer **drop-in care** on a space-available basis, though you must typically pre-register and provide immunization records. National backup care services like **Bright Horizons** have partnerships with some local employers. For more flexible, on-demand care, you can use reputable apps like **Care.com** or **UrbanSitter** to find local, vetted babysitters for short notice. Additionally, several in-home nanny agencies serving the Santa Clarita Valley can sometimes provide temporary placements. For planned backup, consider forming a "nanny-share" arrangement with neighbors or using a licensed family childcare home that has more flexible capacity than a large center. Always ensure any emergency caregiver is properly background-checked.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Valencia: