How do I choose the right daycare in Arcata?

When choosing a daycare in Arcata, consider visiting facilities in person and checking: Licensing status with California's regulatory agency Staff-to-child ratios (requirements vary by age group in California) Safety measures and cleanliness Daily routines and educational curriculum Parent reviews and ratings Location and hours that fit your schedule

What types of daycare are available in Arcata?

Arcata offers several types of childcare facilities: Child Daycare & Preschools — 12 facilities Headstart Programs — 1 facilities Before or After School Daycare — 1 facilities Each type serves different needs — center-based facilities typically offer structured programs, while head start programs are federally funded for low-income families.

Child Daycare & Preschools in Arcata, California (12 Results)

Q: What is the average cost of daycare in California?

Daycare costs in California typically range from $200 to $400 per week for full-time care, depending on the child's age, facility type, and location within the state. Infant care tends to be more expensive due to lower staff-to-child ratio requirements. Contact individual facilities in Arcata for current pricing.

Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in Arcata

Ranked using a weighted score that combines Google rating with the number of parent reviews — daycares with more reviews rank higher than those with a high rating but few reviews. Last updated: March 2026.

Stepping Stones Extended Day Care Program

4.58 score

5(7)

1897 S Street, Arcata, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 30 children

Stepping Stones is highly regarded by parents for its engaged, experienced providers (Anna and Dave) and thoughtful programming. Parents consistently praise the outdoor space with natural elements, educational activities, homemade meals with accommodations for allergies, and strong communication from staff. Multiple families have used the center for extended periods and recommend it to others.

experienced and caring providersoutdoor space with engaging activitieshomemade meals with dairy-free and peanut-free optionsclear communication about daily activities and child needs

Stepping Stones Children'S Garden

4.58 score

5(7)

1920 Zehndner Ave., Arcata, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 45 children

Stepping Stones Children's Garden receives universal 5-star praise from parents who highlight the caring providers Anna and Dave, engaging outdoor spaces with animals, and educational programming. Parents consistently mention feeling secure leaving their children in this center's care and appreciate the clear communication, homemade meals, and community-building activities.

Caring and attentive providersengaging outdoor space with chickenshomemade mealsaccommodates dietary restrictions

Child Daycare & Preschools in Arcata, California

There are 12 child daycare & preschools in Arcata, California, making up 86% of the 14 total childcare facilities in the city. Below you'll find a complete directory to help you compare and choose the right daycare for your child.

When choosing a daycare in Arcata, consider visiting facilities in person, checking their licensing status, and asking about staff-to-child ratios, daily routines, and safety policies.

Frequently asked questions

There are 12 child daycare & preschools daycares in Arcata, California, out of 14 total childcare facilities in the city. Browse our directory to compare options and find the right fit for your child.

When choosing a daycare in Arcata, consider visiting facilities in person and checking:

Licensing status with California's regulatory agency
Staff-to-child ratios (requirements vary by age group in California)
Safety measures and cleanliness
Daily routines and educational curriculum
Parent reviews and ratings
Location and hours that fit your schedule

Arcata offers several types of childcare facilities:

Child Daycare & Preschools — 12 facilities
Headstart Programs — 1 facilities
Before or After School Daycare — 1 facilities

Each type serves different needs — center-based facilities typically offer structured programs, while head start programs are federally funded for low-income families.

Daycare costs in California typically range from $200 to $400 per week for full-time care, depending on the child's age, facility type, and location within the state. Infant care tends to be more expensive due to lower staff-to-child ratio requirements. Contact individual facilities in Arcata for current pricing.

Yes, daycare centers in Arcata must be licensed by California's childcare licensing agency. Licensed facilities are required to meet standards for safety, health, staff qualifications, and staff-to-child ratios. You can verify a facility's license status through your state's licensing database.

12 Child Daycare & Preschools in Arcata, California

Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in Arcata

Top Rated

Stepping Stones Extended Day Care Program

Stepping Stones Children'S Garden

Humboldt Educare Preschool

Little Learners Arcata

Little Learners Center

Little Learners Center

Map

Daycare types in Arcata

Browse by type in Arcata