Expat Infants Guide
Daycare
There is a vast number of daycare facilities in Los Angeles, so one has to weigh a few different options when trying to decide which one is right for them. Location is a big factor, but even bigger than that, is the question of safety and positive feedback. There are a few websites, besides the main websites of the facilities themselves, where one can investigate and read comments and reviews by other customers. Here are some of them:
- http://www.losangeles.citysearch.com
- http://www.yelp.com
- http://www.angieslist.com (paid membership required)
Below you will also find some day care facilities to give you a basic overview of what to expect as far as pricing and location:
The Growing Place at Ocean Park
Providing daycare since 1984 for Santa Monica residents only. Emphasis on social skills. 78 kids.
2.5 – 5 years old
Rates per month:
Infants: $1,600
Toddlers: $1,345
Preschoolers: $1,200
401 Ashland Ave Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 399-7769
http://www.growingplace.com
The Growing Place at Marine Park
3 months – 5 years old
Rates per month:
Infants: $1,600
Toddlers: $1,345
Preschoolers: $1,200
1406 Marine St. Santa Monica, CA 90405, 310 392 9737
(310) 392-9737
Hours: 7:30AM to 6:00PM Monday-Friday
Jeannes’s Day Care
Provides day care and evening and overnight care for children of nightshift workers. Neighborhood walks and field trips provided. Nutritious meals.
Daily Rates: $40 – $60
8646 Olin Street, Los Angeles, CA 90034
(310) 839-0432
http://www.jeannesdaycare.com/
La Petite Academy
Care for infants from six weeks. Classes designed to promote individual thinking. Care groups all over the city.
750 N Alameda, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Call to find out about fees
Judith Carrasco, Director
(213) 202-6230
http://www.lapetite.com
Nannies
If you can afford a full- or part-time nanny to look after your children, Los Angeles has a variety of up market nanny agencies, although services aren’t as popular as social day care centers. Live-in nannies from a reputable agency provide 24/7 care and provide the benefit of bonding with the child. Many nannies are from abroad and can enrich the child’s life while he/she is sheltered from the herd.
Although salary ranges vary, here are some guidelines for full-time, live-in or live-out:
- Fluent English and driving full-time $550-$750 per week
- Semi-Fluent English, no driving; $500-$650 per week
- Part-time, fluent English & driving; $13-20 per hour
Agency placement fee is 15% of one year’s gross salary.
Buckingham Nannies & Domestics
An award-winning agency set up in 1988. Place live-in and live-out nannies for full and part time positions. One of LA’s best agencies.
13737 Ventura Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 91423
http://www.buckinghamnannies.com/
Westside Nannies
Provide full and part-time nannies, live in or out, temporary and traveling nannies. Popular with celebrities.
6206 Orange St., Los Angeles, CA 90048
http://www.westsidenannies.com
The Elizabeth Rose Agency
Featured on Nanny 911, the agency provides nannies, baby nurses, and domestic help. The website lists nanny credentials.
9151 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069, 310 276 2555
http://www.elizabethroseagency.com
Referrals
Crystal Stairs
A nonprofit organization that connects moms in need and the service providers. They also do their own research for the betterment of childcares.
Connection for children
A nonprofit organization child care referring agency servicing Westside and Southbay area.
Network of Moms
Ask for advice and share ideas on the online network:
- La Leche League – http://www.lllusa.org/
- Parent Center – http://www.parentcenter.com/
- Cafe Mom – http://www.cafemom.com
