Safe, Nurturing, and Reliable: Feel at ease knowing your child is in a secure and loving environment where they can learn and grow every day.
Customized Learning: We assess each child’s developmental stage and create an individualized lesson plan focusing on the skills they need most.
You deserve a partner in your child’s growth who truly understands their unique needs and helps them flourish.
Milestone Celebrations: Create small recognition events for achievements like potty training success, first words, or academic progress to boost children’s confidence and involve parents in the celebration.
Trusted By Google & Yelp. See 5 Star Reviews
Welcome working parents! Finding a reliable, loving daycare can be challenging for families. At Susy's Family Childcare, we understand your needs and are here to help. We’ve been serving Coachella Valley families for 20+ years, providing quality daycare and preschool programs in a warm, nurturing home environment. As a fully licensed in-home childcare provider (partnering with the Riverside County Office of Education), we offer the peace of mind and experience you deserve. Your child’s safety, happiness, and development are our top priorities every single day.
We welcome children aged 2 to 5 years old. Our mixed-age groups encourage younger children to learn from their older peers and older children to develop leadership skills. To enroll your child at our center is a straightforward process. You can contact us to schedule a tour, meet our staff, and learn more about our programs. Once you decide to join our family, we will guide you through the necessary paperwork and steps to ensure a smooth transition for your child.
We believe children learn through play and life experiences. My goal is to provide a safe and learning environment through play and exploration to promote family values and child growth through developmentally appropriate curriculum that will meet the social, emotional, and physical needs of each child. With mixed age groups. I believe that every child is unique and learns at their own level. Your child will receive quality personal and individualized care in a warm and loving home.
Situated in Bermuda Dunes, CA, our home daycare is just minutes from Palm Desert, Indio, and La Quinta (and a short drive from Palm Springs).
We proudly welcome families from all these communities. If you’ve been searching for childcare or preschools near me in the area, Susy's Family Childcare is a convenient, trusted choice.
We strive to be among the best daycares near you, combining the cozy personal touch of a home daycare near me with the structured learning of a high-quality preschool.
Many local parents who initially looked for “daycare near me” or “preschools near me” discovered that our program stands out for its loving atmosphere and individualized approach.
We even offer infant daycare and toddler daycare programs, so from babies to pre-K, your little ones can grow with us in a consistent, caring setting.
We invite you to schedule to view and tour our facilities and meet our team. Tours are available by appointment only, allowing you to see firsthand the loving and nurturing environment we provide for our children. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us to arrange a convenient time for your visit. We look forward to welcoming you and your child to our community
What Are Families Say About Us
Safe and Nurturing Environment
Child Supervision
Cognitive Development
Language Development
Early Education
Educational Services
Structured Routine
Rest and Naptime
Why Choose Susy's Family Childcare
Choosing a childcare provider is a big decision. Here are a few reasons why Susy's Family Childcare is the best daycare solution for many Palm Desert and Coachella Valley families:
20+ Years of Trusted, Licensed Care: With over two decades of experience in early childhood education, we’ve guided countless infants, toddlers, and preschoolers through important growth stages. Our facility is licensed in California and adheres to strict safety and care standards. (We even partner with the Riverside County Office of Education to stay aligned with the highest quality practices.) Parents know they can trust our long-standing reputation and commitment to excellence
Individualized Learning Plans: Every child is unique. We assess each child’s developmental stage and create customized lesson plans tailored to their needs. Whether your little one is starting to crawl or getting ready to write their name, we’ll design activities to support their next milestones. This personalized approach to learning helps each child thrive at their own pace and builds confidence.
Structured Routines: Children thrive on consistency. Our days follow a gentle daily routine that balances learning, play, meals, and rest. From morning circle time to afternoon story time, your child will enjoy a predictable schedule that makes them feel secure. Regular routines help toddlers and preschoolers learn good habits and transitions (like cleaning up toys and preparing for nap time) in a fun, supportive way.
Milestone Celebrations & Family Involvement: We believe in celebrating the “little” big things! Did your toddler finally master potty training or did your infant say a first word? We mark those milestones with small celebrations and share the joy with you. Parents are our partners – we keep you informed of your child’s progress and involve you in their learning journey. Susy’s is not just daycare; it’s a family. We love hosting holiday events, craft days, and parent participation days so you can be part of the memories.
Bilingual Program (English/Spanish): In our home, children are exposed to both English and Spanish through bilingual songs, stories, and activities. Early exposure to a second language has wonderful benefits it can enhance cognitive skills and cultural awareness. Whether your family speaks Spanish or you just want your child to learn, our bilingual program will give them a great start. It’s amazing to see toddlers proudly count uno, dos, tres or say “gracias” at snack time!
Safe, Nurturing Home Environment: Our center is a home, not a big institution. That means your child gets care in a comfortable, home-like setting with a small group of friends. We maintain a safe childcare environment with child-proofing, constant supervision, and regular cleaning. With a small caregiver-to-child ratio, we ensure every child gets personal attention and affection. Hugs, laughter, and learning through play are part of our daily life. Parents often tell us that their child quickly feels like part of the family here – and that’s exactly our goal.
We know you have options when it comes to daycare and preschool in Palm Desert or the surrounding area. Susy's Family Childcare offers the best of all worlds: experienced and professional care and the loving touch of a home. It’s a place where your child can learn, grow, and flourish while you’re at work, with full confidence that they’re in excellent hands.
Curious to see for yourself? Join us for a free tour! We welcome you to come meet our staff, explore our space, and ask any questions no obligations.
How much should daycare cost per day?
Daycare costs vary by location and setting. In 2025, the average full-time daycare cost in California ranges around $40 to $70 per day for one child. Home based daycares (like ours) can be on the lower end of the range, while larger daycare centers in cities may be on the higher end. Infant care tends to cost a bit more than care for older toddlers or preschoolers, because babies require more one-on-one attention. We keep our rates competitive and fair for local families. Tip: When comparing daycares, look at what’s included in the price (meals, diapers, hours, etc.) to make sure you’re getting the best value. Contact us for our current tuition rates we’re happy to provide details!
Is it cheaper to hire a nanny or daycare?
For one child, enrolling in daycare is usually more affordable than hiring a full-time nanny A nanny provides one-on-one care in your home, which often comes at a premium price (nannies may charge hourly and full-time nanny care can cost twice as much as daycare). For example, a national survey found the average nanny cost was about $827 per week, whereas daycare averaged around $343 per week For families with multiple children, the cost difference narrows – a nanny’s single fee might cover two kids, while you’d pay separate daycare tuition for each child. However, daycare offers added benefits like socialization with other kids and a structured program, which you wouldn’t get from a sole caregiver. In general, if you’re budget-conscious, a quality daycare will give you excellent care at a fraction of the cost of a private nanny.
What is the income limit for child care assistance in California?
California offers subsidized child care programs to help low and moderate-income families. Typically, families qualify for child care assistance if their income is below 85% of the state median income for their household size. For example, a family of three earning around $6,800 per month or less may be eligible for assistance The exact income cutoff depends on your family size (larger families have a higher income limit) and is updated periodically. If you think you might qualify, you can apply through Riverside County’s child care resource and referral program. These programs can significantly reduce your daycare costs or even provide free childcare in some cases. We can help point you in the right direction for finding information about local assistance—just ask!
What is the best age to start daycare?
There’s no single “best” age that fits every child; it really depends on your family’s needs and the child’s readiness. Many children start daycare as infants (some as early as 3-6 months old) when parents return to work. Others begin at 1 to 2 years old, once they are walking and more interactive. Starting daycare young can help babies and toddlers socialize and grow comfortable with caregivers other than parents. On the other hand, if you have flexibility, some parents wait until around 18 months to 2 years when separation anxiety might ease a bit. The good news is that quality daycares can support children at any age – from infancy through preschool. We’ve seen babies thrive in our program, and we’ve helped toddlers who have never been away from mom or dad adjust and blossom. Whenever you choose to start, we will work with you to make the transition positive for your child.
What to do if I can't afford daycare?
Child care can be expensive, but there are a few strategies and resources that may help if you’re worried about cost:
Look into Subsidies or Assistance: Programs exist to help families with daycare costs. For example, California has financial assistance for families under certain income levels Check with Riverside County or programs like CalWORKs Stage 3, which offer vouchers or subsidized childcare if you qualify.
Consider Part-Time or Home Daycare: If full-time care five days a week is too costly, see if part-time schedules are an option. We offer flexible schedules. Even a home daycare (like Susy’s) often has lower rates than a large center, making it more affordable while still providing quality care.
Nanny Share or Co-ops: Some parents team up and hire a nanny together, splitting the cost (nanny share). Others join a babysitting co-op or trade babysitting with friends/family for free. While these aren’t daycare, they can supplement or reduce the amount of paid care you need.
Work Benefits & Tax Credits: Check if your employer offers a Dependent Care FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or other child care benefits – these can save you money by using pre-tax dollars. Also, when tax time comes, utilize the Child and Dependent Care Credit if you’re eligible, which can refund a portion of your daycare expenses.
Talk to Us: Don’t hesitate to discuss your situation. We understand budgeting concerns, and while we must sustain our business, we truly want to help families. We might know of local scholarships, discounts, or upcoming openings in a state-funded program and can guide you to those resources. Your child deserves great care, and we’ll do what we can to make it work for you.
How much is a nanny vs daycare?
Daycare is generally much more budget-friendly than a nanny. To put it in perspective, a full-time nanny can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $4,000 a month (or more), whereas full-time daycare in our area might range roughly $800 to $1,500 a month per child. Nationally, the average nanny salary works out to about $827 per week, while daycare averages about $343 per week accoring to care.com for one child. That means a nanny could cost 2-3 times more than daycare for a single child. Of course, a nanny offers one-on-one attention and might handle household tasks, which some families are willing to pay a premium for. But if you’re looking at pure dollars and cents, daycare wins on cost. Plus, at a daycare like ours, your child gets the added developmental benefits of trained teachers, planned activities, and friends to play with – things even the best nanny might not provide in a solo setting.
What age do kids start talking?
Every child is different, but there are general milestones for speech. Most babies say their first word (like “mama” or “dada”) sometime around 12 to 18 months old By the time they reach 2 years old, many toddlers can put two words together (e.g., “more milk” or “Mommy go”). By 3 years old, children typically have a big burst in vocabulary – they can form short sentences and have words for most everyday things Remember, there’s a range of “normal” in language development. Some kids start talking earlier, some a little later. In our program, we engage children with lots of talking, singing, and reading, which helps encourage their language skills. If we ever have concerns about a child’s speech development, we’ll let you know and provide resources (like speech therapy referrals) to support them. But chances are, once your little one is immersed in a language-rich daycare environment, you’ll hear them chattering away and even singing new songs at home!
Does daycare cause attachment issues?
No – quality daycare does not harm the parent-child bond. Research and experience show that for most children, attending daycare does not disrupt their attachment to their parents The key is a loving home and responsive parenting. As long as you give your child affection and consistency at home (which we know you do!), they will maintain a secure attachment to you, even if they spend the day in child care. In fact, children are capable of forming healthy attachments to their daycare providers in addition to their parents. Think of it like having a trusted extended family. Here at Susy’s, we work hard to build a caring, stable relationship with your child, so they feel safe and loved while you’re away. Many of our graduates remain very close with their parents (of course!) and fondly remember their first friends and teachers from daycare. We’ll never try to replace a parent – rather, we become partners in caring for your child. By having that extra layer of support, your child can become even more confident in the world, knowing they have lots of people rooting for them.
Looking for child care?
If you’re looking for child care in the area, we know you have a lot of options to sift through. It can feel overwhelming trying to find the right “fit.” At Susy’s Family Childcare, we aim to make that choice easy by offering everything a parent could want
Convenience: Our location in Bermuda Dunes is central for families in Palm Desert, Indio, La Quinta, and surrounding areas. You won’t be stuck driving far out of your way each day. Many parents say our spot is perfect when they need a reliable daycare near Palm Desert or in the Coachella Valley.
Trust & Reputation: We’re not a faceless franchise – we’re a beloved home daycare that has been part of the community for years. Parents often find us through word of mouth or after searching online for “the best daycares near me”. Once they visit, they see why Susy’s is so highly recommended. We have 5-star reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp, and a long track record of happy families.
All-in-One Care: Because we combine daycare and preschool, you don’t have to switch providers when your baby grows into a toddler, or toddler into a preschooler. We can take care of your infant’s needs and later teach them their ABCs and 123s, all in one place. It’s a seamless experience from baby years through pre-K.
Personal Connection: Perhaps most importantly, we truly care about each family. You’re not just another enrollment to us. We take time to communicate with you daily about how your child’s day went – what they learned, how they napped, the cute moment that made us smile. Building a relationship with parents is part of our job. When you join Susy’s Family Childcare, you become part of our family. We want you to feel 100% comfortable and confident that your child is loved here.
In short, if you’re a working parent looking for child care you can trust, we invite you to visit Susy’s. Let us answer your questions, show you around, and see if our home-away-from-home is the right match for your little one.
How to get kids ready for child care?
Getting your child ready to start daycare or preschool is a big step! Here are some tips to make the transition smoother for both of you:
Talk About It: Begin discussing the upcoming change in simple, positive terms. For example, “Soon you’ll get to play with new friends at daycare!” Let them know what to expect – that they will play, learn, and that Mommy/Daddy will come back to pick them up.
Visit Together: If possible, bring your child for a visit or free tour of the daycare beforehand. Meeting the teacher (Susy and our staff) and seeing the new environment with you by their side can make the first drop-off much less scary. We’re happy to schedule a meet-and-greet to help your child get familiar with us
Practice Separation: In the weeks leading up, try leaving your child with a grandparent, relative, or babysitter for short periods if you haven’t before. This “practice” helps them learn that when you leave, you do come back. Start with 30 minutes or an hour and gradually extend it so they build trust that separation is safe.
Establish Routines: Young children handle change better when other parts of life stay routine. Before daycare starts, adjust their bedtime or nap schedule to match the daycare schedule. Establish a consistent morning routine (wake up, breakfast, get dressed) so the daycare days aren’t a shock. A predictable routine at home will help them adjust to the routine with us.
Comfort Items: Consider letting your child bring a familiar object from home on the first day – a favorite small stuffed animal, blanket, or family photo can provide comfort at nap time or whenever they miss home. Having a “lovey” or something that smells like home can be very soothing for a child in a new setting (we just ask that it’s something safe and not too irreplaceable in case it gets dirty).
Finally, stay positive and confident. Children take cues from parents, so if you seem comfortable and happy about daycare, they will feel more secure too. It’s normal for there to be a few tears at drop-off (sometimes from both child and parent!), but most kids adapt quickly. We send updates and photos so you can see that your little one is doing okay. Before you know it, they’ll be running into our door excited to start the day!
What are the disadvantages of a nanny?
While a nanny can provide wonderful one-on-one care in your home, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider, especially compared to a daycare setting:
Cost: A nanny is typically the most expensive childcare option. You’re essentially employing someone, which can cost significantly more than a daycare or preschool program (as discussed above). For many families, the high expense of a full-time nanny is the biggest downside.
Backup Care: When you rely on a single caregiver and they get sick, go on vacation, or have an emergency, you may suddenly be without childcare. Day cares have multiple staff and can remain open even if one teacher is out. With a nanny, you’ll need a backup plan for those situations (or you might have to miss work).
Less Peer Interaction: At home with a nanny, your child won’t have the built-in opportunity to play and learn with other children. They might miss out on those early socialization experiences that daycares and preschools naturally provide. Things like learning to share, taking turns, and being part of a group are big perks of group care.
Limited Oversight/Structure: A good nanny will engage your child in activities, but nannies are not regulated the way daycares are. Licensed daycares follow state standards for safety, caregiver training, and curriculum. Nannies don’t have a formal curriculum unless you arrange one, and there’s no outside monitoring. In a daycare, you know the environment is set up for kids and staff are trained. With a nanny, especially if they’re alone in your home, you’ll need to trust their initiative and maybe even install cameras if you want oversight.
Of course, every family’s needs are different. Some families prefer a nanny for the personalized attention or flexible help with household tasks. But if the above concerns worry you, a daycare/preschool like Susy’s can be a better choice – offering reliable, enriched care in a social setting (and usually at a lower cost).
What is the best year to start preschool?
Most children start preschool in the year they are 3 or 4 years old. In fact, the typical preschool age range is 3 to 5 years Starting at 3 years old is common – many preschools have a “3-year-old program.” This gives kids two years of preschool (at age 3 and age 4) before kindergarten, which can be very beneficial for their social and academic development. By 3, many children are potty-trained or close to it, and they’re eager to play with peers, making it a great time to begin a more structured learning setting. Some families wait until 4 years old (the Pre-K year) to start, especially if the child has been home or in daycare previously. Starting at 4 can work well if you prefer just one year of preschool experience before kindergarten. Bottom line: The best year to start is when your child is ready and excited to engage with the world around them in a classroom setting. We accept children into our preschool program around age 2½ to 3. If you’re unsure if your little one is ready, we can gladly discuss and even arrange a trial day to see how they do
What is the best age for kids to go to preschool?
Generally, ages 3 to 4 are considered the ideal time to start preschool according to parents.com. At age 3, children are typically developing greater independence, curiosity, and social skills, which helps them benefit from a preschool environment. They can follow simple instructions, enjoy group story time, and play cooperatively (well, as much as toddlers can!). Age 4 is also a prime preschool age – 4-year-olds are gearing up for kindergarten, and a good Pre-K program can boost their readiness in recognizing letters, numbers, and making friends. Some children even start at 2½ if they’re potty-trained and ready, while others might not begin until age 4 if they needed a bit more time at home. Every child is different. If your 2-year-old is very social and seems bored at home, they might thrive starting preschool early. If your 3-year-old still takes long naps and is shy, you might do a shorter schedule to start. At Susy’s, we offer a lot of flexibility. We have some toddlers join our mixed-age group at 2½ on a part-time basis to ease in, and we have 4-year-olds attending full-time preparing for kindergarten. We’ll help you figure out what’s best for your child’s stage and personality.
How much does preschool cost? (2025 Prices)
The cost of preschool in 2025 can vary depending on location, program quality, and schedule. On average, full-time preschool programs (5 days a week) in California range from about $400 to $1,300 per month per child. That typically breaks down to roughly $20 to $65 per day Part-time preschool (for example, 2-3 days a week or half-days) would cost less than that range. Factors that influence the price include the teacher-to-child ratio, facilities, included meals or supplies, and whether it’s a private preschool or state-funded program. Here at Susy’s Family Childcare, we aim to keep tuition affordable while still providing excellent staff and curriculum. As a home-based preschool, our overhead is lower than a big center, and we pass those savings on to our parents. We’re transparent about our pricing – feel free to reach out, and we can discuss the specific costs for your preferred schedule and see what works for your budget. Also, remember to explore if you qualify for any preschool tuition assistance (California has some programs for 4-year-old pre-K funding, for example). We want high-quality preschool to be accessible to as many families as possible.
Is preschool better than staying at home?
A high-quality preschool provides experiences that can be very beneficial compared to staying at home, though “better” can depend on individual circumstances. In general, children who attend preschool tend to develop strong social skills and vocabulary by interacting with peers and teacherscremedelacreme.com. In a good preschool, kids follow a routine, participate in group activities, and are exposed to early literacy and math concepts through play – these things can give them a head start in learning and adjusting to a school environment. At home, a child might get more one-on-one adult attention and the comfort of a familiar setting, but they might not encounter as many new ideas or the same level of social interaction. We like to say preschool isn’t just about ABCs and 123s; it’s about learning to share, waiting your turn, raising your hand, and being part of a community. Those are skills that are hard to replicate in a home setting. That said, a loving home with attentive parents is also a great environment for a young child. Many families do a combination – time at preschool and quality time at home. In our experience, children who have some preschool experience adjust more quickly to kindergarten. They’re used to being around other kids, listening to adults other than Mom or Dad, and they often show more independence in things like packing their backpack or following instructions. But if staying home is your only option or choice, you can still nurture your child’s development by creating playdates, visiting libraries or parks, and doing learning activities together. It’s not “preschool or nothing.” Every bit of engagement helps. Overall, though, we believe a good preschool program (even part-time) offers wonderful advantages that set the stage for lifelong learning and social confidence.
Is private preschool worth it?
Private preschool (which includes most home daycares and independent preschools like ours) can absolutely be worth it, if it aligns with your family’s needs and you can budget for it. Here are a few reasons parents find private preschool valuable:
Smaller Class Sizes: Private preschools often have fewer children per teacher, meaning more individualized attention for your child. If you want your child in a calmer environment where teachers can really focus on each student, private programs shine here.
Enriched Curriculum: Many private preschools offer specialized curriculum or teaching philosophies (Montessori, play-based, bilingual, faith-based, etc.) that you might not find in a public setting. At Susy’s, for instance, we incorporate bilingual learning and personal lesson plans – flexibility that is a perk of being a private program.
Parent Communication: In our private program, we build close relationships with families. We send photos, updates, and have an open-door policy for communication. You might find a more personal touch and responsiveness in a private preschool compared to a larger public program
Flexible Schedules: Public or state-run preschool programs (like state pre-K) may have limited hours or follow a strict school district calendar. Private preschools often offer full-day, year-round care, which is a huge benefit for working parents. For example, we are open most of the year and can provide care beyond a short 3-hour class. This convenience can be worth it by itself.
Of course, the main downside of private preschool is cost – you have to pay tuition, whereas public programs might be free or low-cost if you qualify. The question of “worth it” comes down to whether the benefits match what you want for your child and whether the costs are manageable. Many parents who choose private preschool (and invest in those early years) see their children grow in confidence, skills, and love of learning, which they feel is priceless. If you’re on the fence, we suggest touring both private and public options in your area to compare. Look at class size, teacher qualifications, facilities, and gut feeling. Often, parents tell us that after visiting, they just knew Susy’s Family Childcare was the right place because of the warmth and quality they felt. That kind of assurance can make a private preschool worth every penny.
How many hours of preschool for a 3-year-old?
For a 3-year-old, many experts suggest that a half-day preschool program is a great starting point. That’s usually about 3 to 4 hours per day, either in the morning or afternoon. At 3, children have a lot of energy and enthusiasm, but they can also get tired or overstimulated after a few hours of structured activity. A half-day gives them the preschool experience (circle time, playground, art, etc.) and then they can have lunch and nap at home (or in a full-day program, they’d nap at school). However, every child and family situation is different. Some 3-year-olds in our care stay full-day (6-8 hours) because their parents work full-time, and they adjust just fine. We include a nap/rest period after lunch, which helps them recharge. The key is consistency and quality of the time spent. In a full-day program, we make sure there’s a good balance – active play, quiet story time, learning activities, meals, and naps, so it’s not go-go-go all day. If you have the flexibility, you might start your 3-year-old at 2 or 3 days a week, half-day, and then increase as they get closer to 4. This gradual introduction can help them build stamina for a school schedule. On the other hand, if you need full-time care, don’t worry – 3-year-olds are adaptable. With a loving environment and routine (which we provide), they can thrive even in a longer day. We will work with you to monitor your child’s adjustment. If we see they’re getting too tired or cranky with a long day, we’ll let you know and can strategize (maybe extra quiet time or a shorter day if possible). Our goal is to ensure your 3-year-old is happy and flourishing, whether they’re here for a morning preschool class or from breakfast to dinnertime.
Is pre-K the same as preschool?
Pre-K (short for pre-kindergarten) is similar to preschool, but there’s a slight distinction. Both are early childhood education programs prior to kindergarten, but **Pre-K usually refers to the year before kindergarten, typically for 4-year-olds. It often has a curriculum that is a bit more focused on kindergarten readiness skills – think of things like learning to hold a pencil correctly, recognizing letters and numbers, basic classroom routines, etc. Preschool is a broader term that can refer to any program for 3 and 4-year-olds (sometimes even 2-year-olds). In essence, Pre-K is a type of preschool, often a more advanced class for older preschoolers. For example, at Susy’s Family Childcare, we have a mixed-age approach, but we do tailor activities for our “pre-K” kids (older 4s) to prepare them for the transition to elementary school. Some school districts offer specific Pre-K classes that are separate from general preschool, often targeting kids who are 4 turning 5 and will enroll in kindergarten the next year. These might be called Transitional Kindergarten (TK) or Pre-K. Meanwhile, private providers might just group 3s and 4s together as “preschool.” In short: All Pre-K is preschool, but not all preschool is Pre-K. Pre-K is typically the last stop in preschool before kindergarten. No matter what you call it, the goal is similar: to help children develop the skills and confidence needed for the big leap into kindergarten.
What is the difference between preschool and daycare?
The terms preschool and daycare are sometimes used interchangeably, but they do have different connotations:
Daycare (Childcare): The primary focus of daycare is to provide care and supervision for children while parents work. Daycares often accept a wide age range — from infants as young as 6 weeks up to preschoolers or even school-age kids for after-school care. Daycares typically cover longer hours (e.g., 7 AM to 6 PM) and operate year-round. The daily activities in daycare can include learning through play, meals, naps, and general playtime. While children certainly learn and reach developmental milestones in daycare, the structure might be more about flexibility and care than a strict academic curriculum.
Preschool: Preschool usually refers to an educational program for 3-5-year-olds that focuses on early learning skills and socialization in a group setting. Preschools often have more of a school-like schedule (for example, 8 AM to noon, following a school district calendar with summers off, though some are full-day). The term “preschool” emphasizes school readiness – children participate in planned activities to develop pre-reading, pre-math, and social skills (like learning shapes, colors, how to sit in circle time, how to share, etc.). Preschools might have teachers with specific early childhood education credentials and a set curriculum or philosophy guiding the day.
In practice, there’s a lot of overlap. Many daycares incorporate a preschool curriculum, especially for the 3-5-year-olds in their care (we certainly do at Susy’s!). And many preschools also take on the role of daycare by offering extended hours or wrap-around care. At Susy’s Family Childcare, we blend the two: we provide the nurturing care your child needs (diaper changes, hugs, free play, lunch and nap coverage for working parents) and we provide the structured preschool learning that prepares them for kindergarten. So your child doesn’t miss out on anything. The difference really comes down to emphasis and timing: daycare = all-day care, catering to parents’ work schedules, preschool = focused learning program, usually shorter day. We’re proud to offer both in one place – a home daycare that is also an enriching preschool program.
Is private preschool better than public preschool?
Private vs. public preschool – each has its advantages, and “better” will depend on what you value for your child. In a private preschool (like Susy’s or other independent centers and home daycares), you often find:
Smaller classes: More individualized attention because private programs control their enrollment and maintain low child-to-teacher ratios.
Specialized curriculum: Flexibility to use teaching methods or curricula that might not be in public programs (Montessori materials, religious education, language immersion, etc., depending on the school).
Extended hours: Private preschools are often full-day and year-round to meet working parents’ needs. Public preschools might be partial-day or school-year only.
Parent involvement & community: Private preschools build their own community culture; many families love the close-knit, family-like atmosphere (which we definitely foster at Susy’s).
In a public preschool, which could be a state-funded Pre-K or a program in a public elementary school, you typically get:
Free or low cost: Huge benefit – these programs are funded by the government, so eligible families might attend for free or a fraction of the cost of private tuition.
Certified teachers: Public programs often require teachers to have specific credentials or degrees, and they follow state early education standards.
Resources for special needs: Public schools can provide services like speech therapy, etc., as part of their program if a child qualifies, thanks to federal and state support.
Diversity: Public preschools usually draw a diverse group of children from the community, which can be a plus for social learning and inclusion.
Neither private nor public guarantees quality – there are excellent and not-so-excellent examples of each. Private preschools can sometimes have more innovative approaches and extra amenities (but at a cost), while public preschools ensure access and have oversight but might be limited in flexibility (and spots can be limited, too, often they prioritize lower-income or special needs first).
If you’re considering this choice, think about what matters most: Is it the cost? The hours? The educational approach? The environment? For instance, if you need full-day care, a private preschool will likely serve you better. If budget is a concern and you qualify for a great free pre-K program, that could be a wonderful opportunity (perhaps supplemented by daycare for wrap-around hours). Some families even do a mix: using a public preschool part of the day and a private daycare for the rest.
At the end of the day, the best preschool is one where your child is safe, loved, and learning, whether it’s public or private. We encourage you to visit any program you consider and trust your instincts. As a private preschool, we welcome anyone to tour our facility, meet our teachers, and see our curriculum. We’re confident that the quality of care and education we provide stacks up against any program out there.
What is the difference between private and public schooling?
This is a broader question that goes beyond preschool into school-age years, but it’s important as you think long term. Public schools are funded by the government (through taxes) and are free to attend for all students in the district. Private schools rely on tuition payments and private funding (like donations or religious organization support) and are not free. Here are a few key differences:
Curriculum and Standards: Public schools must follow state-mandated curricula and standards (for example, Common Core for math/language arts in California). Private schools have more leeway to design their own curriculum or educational approach, as long as they still meet basic educational requirements. This means a private school might offer unique programs (like advanced arts, different language offerings, or alternative teaching methods) that public schools might not.
Class Size: Public school class sizes can vary widely, but especially in California, they might be larger due to budget constraints – it’s not uncommon to see 25+ kids in a class in elementary school. Private schools often tout smaller class sizes (maybe 10-15 students per teacher), allowing more individualized attention.
Teachers: Public school teachers are state-certified and generally unionized; they often have at least a bachelor’s degree plus teaching credentials, and many have master’s degrees. Private school teachers might not need state certification (depending on the school), and requirements can vary – some private schools hire teachers with advanced subject knowledge even if they don’t have a teaching credential. Pay can be lower in private schools, but they might offer other benefits or a different work environment.
Funding and Resources: Public schools get funding based on the state and local budgets, which can mean great resources in some communities and tighter resources in others. Private schools depend on tuition and fundraising; a well-funded private school might have cutting-edge facilities or technology, whereas a smaller one might operate on a shoestring.
Student Body: Public schools serve all students in their area (and must accommodate special education needs, language learners, etc.), so they tend to be more diverse in terms of background and abilities. Private schools often have an application process, and some may be selective (academically or based on other criteria). Some private schools are religious (parochial schools) and incorporate faith into their program, something public schools won’t do.
Accountability: Public schools are subject to state testing and public accountability measures. Private schools are accountable to parents (and accreditation bodies, if accredited). If a private school isn’t meeting expectations, parents can “vote with their feet” and leave, since attendance is by choice.
Neither is inherently “better” – it really depends on the specific schools available to you and your child’s needs. Some public schools are fantastic and offer special magnet programs, and some private schools provide specialized environments that help certain kids thrive (and vice versa). One thing to note is that starting in preschool with a private program like ours does not commit you to private K-12 schooling. Many children from Susy’s Family Childcare go on to attend excellent public elementary schools in our area; others might choose charter or private schools later. We give them a strong foundation so they can succeed anywhere. We’ll support whatever path your family chooses, and we’re happy to share our knowledge of local schools when the time comes.
Safe, Nurturing, and Reliable: Feel at ease knowing your child is in a secure and loving environment where they can learn and grow every day.
Customized Learning: We assess each child’s developmental stage and create an individualized lesson plan focusing on the skills they need most.
You deserve a partner in your child’s growth who truly understands their unique needs and helps them flourish.
Milestone Celebrations: Create small recognition events for achievements like potty training success, first words, or academic progress to boost children’s confidence and involve parents in the celebration.
Trusted By Google & Yelp. See 5 Star Reviews
We seek to provide safe, high quality child care which includes opportunities for all our children to grow and mature, at their own developmental level.
Follow Us:
Home
All Services
Drop In
Infant Daycare
Toddler Daycare
Preschool
Pre K Classes
Employment
About us
Contact us
Susy's Family Child Care
LIC # 334843309
41755 Brownstown Dr, Bermuda Dunes, CA92203
Hours: Monday All rights reserved - Friday 8:00 A.M. - 4:00P.M.
Facebook
Youtube
Google Plus