Child Care Resources
International Services Office
For international students and scholars who come to the U.S with very young children, or who plan to have children while here, understanding our child care or “day care” system (and the expenses involved) is a very important step in planning your stay and your budget. Early childhood education is not mandatory in the United States for children under the age of 5 but it can be beneficial, both for preparing young children for transition to kindergarten and for having a place for children to be outside the home during the day.
Day Care Overview
Working parents usually use this option to have their children cared for most or all of the work day. Day care offers more flexibility and hours. It is usually open year-round. Day care may offer services from newborn to grade school children.
Family Day Care
Usually the least expensive form of child care offered in a smaller home-like setting. Children will likely be of varying ages. Starts from about $200/week.
Day Care/Child Care Centers
Licensed and regulated larger facility with lots of staff and children. Children are separated into different age groups. The environment offers a structured schedule, school-like atmosphere, more opportunities to socialize, and potentially a curriculum geared towards language and social-emotional development. Averages about $300-$400/week.
Nanny/Baby Sitter
This is generally the most expensive option. It offers personalized attention in your home. $15-$40/hour
Scripps Research does not endorse or review any of the child care or pre-school options below. This list is for general information and is not an endorsement or recommendation for any particular business or agency.
Day Care
Preschool
Preschool programs are learning-oriented and offer shorter daily or part-week sessions. They are usually closed during holidays, breaks and sometimes through the summer. Preschools may offer half-day and full-day programs, but the timing is fixed. Preschools typically accept kids from ages 3 to 5 and most require your child to be “toilet-trained.”
Here is a partial list of day care centers near Scripps Research:
- Gluck Child Care Center
- UC San Diego Early Childhood Education Center
- Imagine Kids Planet
- Mesa Child Development Center
Additional resources to find child care:
Scripps Research does not endorse or review any of the child care options below. This list is for general information and is not an endorsement or recommendation for any particular business or agency.