Facilities by Types and Age Groups
California licenses 28,270 childcare facilities statewide. Pick a setting — home-based or center-based — and narrow by age.
Licensed Childcare Facility Types in California
The California Department of Social Services licenses several distinct types of childcare facilities, each designed to serve different age groups and care settings. Understanding these categories can help you narrow your search.
Child Care Centers are typically commercial facilities that serve larger groups of children with multiple staff members. Age-focused programs include Infant Centers (0–2), Preschool Centers (2–5), and School-Age Centers (5–17).
Family Child Care Homes operate out of the caregiver's own residence — small homes may serve up to 8 children, while large homes may serve up to 14 with an assistant. Homes that opt in will also appear on age-focused pages above when the caregiver declares those age brackets.
All licensed facility types are subject to oversight by the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD), which conducts inspections and monitors compliance with state regulations.
Facility data is sourced from the CCLD and may not reflect the most recent changes. For the most current information, verify details directly with the CDSS.
Family Child Care Homes
Licensed home-based programs run from the caregiver's own residence. Small group sizes, flexible hours, and an intimate setting — many families prefer the continuity of one dedicated caregiver.
Child Care Centers
Commercial or institutional facilities with multiple caregivers. Structured daily programs, age-separated classrooms, and larger peer groups — spanning infant, preschool, and school-age care.
Browse facilities by age
Infant Centers
Specialized programs for babies and toddlers up to two years old. Lower child-to-staff ratios, infant-trained caregivers, and dedicated nap and feeding spaces.
Preschool Centers
General-purpose licensed centers serving toddlers through preschoolers. The largest segment of California center-based care — full-day programs with structured activities.
School-Age Centers
Before- and after-school care and full-day summer programs for school-age children. Focus on homework support, enrichment activities, and supervised free time.
Not sure which fits your child?
Answer a few questions about age, schedule, and priorities — we'll recommend the best-fit program type and match you with nearby licensed facilities.