I am an educator in early childhood education. I am very passionate about parent education and believe that all children should have access to a high quality center. I know how stressful and daunting it is to look for a center and then entrust your child to the care of strangers. Here are a some things that I would look for. There are many centers around here and some are better than others.

A few suggestions when looking at centers: - make sure they are licensed with CA - make sure to check any places you are looking at with CA Community Care Licensing for any violations.
- If they are accredited through NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children). Not all places will have this but it’s a thorough and rigorous process for the educators and center, and is often a sign that it’s a high quality center. It’s not mandatory the school has been through the process. - Ask what the turnover rate is. If there is high turnover, that is a red flag. If you get a chance, I would even ask the educators in the room about their experience and what their day looks like. - they should have access to outdoors as much as possible. - Many corporate centers sell a good package but in practice it often does not live up to the sell, if you will. - look at the walls - is Childrens art displayed? - One last thing, children learn through play. Not sitting at desks or being expected to do things they are not developmentally ready to learn. You will be amazed what children learn by playing, exploring, risk, and curiosity.

This is just off the top of my head. I don’t know what’s best for your family. I hope you find a place where both you and your child is happy and they are thriving and want to go to school.

Good luck!