Let's face it, being a parent is hard work and the importance of finding quality childcare cannot be understated. Santa Cruz residents are blessed with a multitude of resources for new parents seeking childcare. This article is aimed at pointing you in the right direction, regardless of your budget or education style.
One of my favorite resources available is the Child Development Resource Center. By visiting their website and filling out a simple intake form, you will receive a customized list of referrals to licensed daycare programs with open availability. This list is great because it succinctly summarizes daily/hourly cost, hours of operation, included meals, ratios, ages accepted, and more. CDRC can also help determine whether your family may qualify for financial assistance and can help you contact the agencies that offer subsidized care. For minimum eligibility requirements and more info on subsidized care, call CDRC at (831) 466-5820.
If you are looking for non-licensed care, a good place to start is with TrustLine (1-800-822-8490 or www.trustline.org). TrustLine is the California registry of in-home and license-exempt child care providers (i.e., babysitters and nannies) who have passed a background check. Another resource for date nights, etc is the local Facebook group: "Santa Cruz Childcare (Occasional/Date Night/Errands)." Parenting Facebook groups are extremely active locally. Some of our other favorites are:
Santa Cruz Mamas
Santa Cruz Moms
Janet's Breastfeeding Support Group
Santa Cruz Mommy's & Daddy's Buy/Sell/Trade
Free 2 Be A Kid Santa Cruz
If you are looking for more structure, there are many excellent local pre-schools centers. Here is a comprehensive list. Check with each school directly to find out about current availability, pricing, and financial aid options. We recommend touring a few before making a decision, and before ruling any programs out, keep in mind that many of the local private schools have excellent financial aid packages!
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to our team. We are here to help!
Ace Estess
Realtor + Founder
DRE 02028183
Dream Catch Properties
Cell 831.419.5852
ace@dreamcatchproperties.com