The Best Daycare Centers in Whittier, CA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Whittier. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Whittier
KinderCare at Whittier
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Whittier offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through centers-based activities and provides nutritious meals. Parents appreciate the strong communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences, with many noting the caring staff and clean, safe environment.
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The Learning Experience - Whittier
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Whittier provides a proprietary curriculum called L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) that incorporates phonics, foreign language, manners, and physical fitness. The center features state-licensed teachers with ongoing professional development and maintains excellent staff retention. Safety protocols include secured entry, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The bright, modern facility includes dedicated learning centers, indoor gym, and outdoor playgrounds. Parents consistently praise the engaging curriculum, caring teachers, and the center's focus on both academic and character development.
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Whittier Montessori School
Independent
Whittier Montessori School offers authentic Montessori education guided by AMI-trained teachers in carefully prepared environments. The program emphasizes individualized learning, practical life skills, and mixed-age classrooms that foster natural peer learning. The campus features beautiful, well-maintained classrooms with traditional Montessori materials, peaceful outdoor spaces, and gardens. The school maintains small class sizes and low student-teacher ratios, allowing for personalized attention. Parents consistently highlight the nurturing environment, strong academic foundation, and the development of independence and critical thinking skills in their children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Whittier, CA
What are the typical costs for daycare or preschool in Whittier, CA, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Whittier, daycare costs vary significantly based on the child's age, type of care, and program. For infant care in a licensed center, parents can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,800 per month. Toddler and preschool programs typically range from $900 to $1,400 monthly. Home-based family childcare is often more affordable, ranging from $800 to $1,200. For financial assistance, California offers the CalWORKs Child Care and the Alternative Payment Program (APP). Locally, parents can contact the **Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)**, which serves the San Gabriel Valley and North Orange County, including Whittier, to determine eligibility for subsidized care. Additionally, some Whittier preschools offer sliding scale fees or scholarships.
How can I verify the license and inspection history of a daycare provider in Whittier?
All licensed childcare facilities in California, including those in Whittier, are regulated by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). The primary tool for verification is the **Community Care Licensing Division's online search portal**. You can search by facility name, city, or license number to view the provider's license status, capacity, ages served, and any past citations or substantiated complaints. It's highly recommended to review this "Facility Inspection Report" before enrolling your child. You can also call the local CDSS Regional Office for the Orange County/San Gabriel Valley area for additional information. Always ask the provider for their license number during your tour.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Whittier, and when should I start looking for infant care?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for highly-regarded centers and for infant care slots, which have stricter staff-to-child ratios. In Whittier, it is strongly advised to begin your search **during your pregnancy**, ideally by the second trimester. Many popular centers have waitlists that are 6 to 12 months long for infants. When contacting centers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and any associated fees to hold a spot. Exploring a mix of centers and licensed family childcare homes can increase your options, as home-based providers may have more immediate availability.
What are some of the key differences between the preschool programs offered by the Whittier City School District versus private centers?
The **Whittier City School District (WCSD)** offers state-funded Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Preschool programs, primarily for children who turn 4 or 5 by specific cutoff dates. These programs are typically part-day (e.g., 3-4 hours) and follow the public school calendar, with a strong focus on school readiness. Eligibility may be based on age, income, or other factors. Private preschools and daycare centers in Whittier often offer more flexible, full-day schedules to accommodate working parents, with extended hours from early morning to evening. Their curricula can vary widely (Montessori, play-based, academic) and they operate year-round. Private centers usually accept children starting as young as 2 years old.
What local resources or organizations in Whittier can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
Whittier parents have several valuable local resources. The **Whittier Public Library** often hosts community resource fairs and can provide information. A key organization is the **Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)**, which offers free referral services to help parents find licensed care matching their needs, location, and budget. They also provide guidance on evaluating quality. For hands-on learning and networking, consider joining the **Whittier Moms** or **Whittier Dads** groups on social media platforms, where parents actively share firsthand experiences and recommendations for local providers. Additionally, the **City of Whittier Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department** may offer preschool or enrichment programs that can be part of a childcare solution.
Nearby Cities
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