Question 1

What age groups are taught at this location?

Accepted Answer

We welcome toddlers, and preschoolers (through Pre‑K) at our Santa Clara location. Children are placed in classrooms by developmental stage and transition to the next group when they’re ready, not just by birthday. Availability varies by age group throughout the year—please contact us for current openings or to join the waitlist.

Question 2

What is the child-to-teacher ratio?

Accepted Answer

We keep class sizes small and meet or exceed California Community Care Licensing ratios. Our typical staffing is:
- Toddlers (2-3 years): 1:6 in our toddler classrooms
- Preschool/Pre‑K (3–5 years): 1:12
We also schedule floaters to support classrooms during transitions, outdoor play, and breaks, so children receive more individual attention throughout the day. Please contact us for the most current ratios by classroom.

Question 3

How many children are there in each classroom at this location?

Accepted Answer

Class sizes vary by age group and current enrollment. We keep groups intentionally small and follow (and often exceed) California licensing requirements for teacher‑to‑child ratios to ensure plenty of individual attention. Toddler room have the smallest groups; preschool and pre‑K rooms are slightly larger but always within the licensed capacity posted for each classroom. For the most up‑to‑date class size in a specific room, please contact our Santa Clara center—our team is happy to share current counts and availability.

Question 4

Is the curriculum offered year-round or does it have a start and end date?

Accepted Answer

We operate year‑round; there’s no single start or end date. Our curriculum is continuous and developmentally appropriate, with monthly themes (including a summer program) that build on children’s interests. Children transition to the next classroom based on age and readiness rather than the calendar. New families may start during the year as space becomes available. We observe major holidays and a few staff development days—please see our current calendar for specific closure dates.

Question 5

Are you licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sunflower Child Development Center is fully licensed by the State of California (Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division). Our license is posted on site and available upon request. We also carry comprehensive liability insurance for our program and facilities; proof of insurance can be provided to families upon request.

Question 6

Are fingerprinting and background checks required for employment at your center?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For the safety of our children and families, all employees (and any regular volunteers) must successfully complete a fingerprint-based state and federal background check, as required by California Community Care Licensing, before their first day. Applicants cannot begin work until all clearances are confirmed. We guide candidates through the process during hiring.

Question 7

What are your hours of operation?

Accepted Answer

We’re open Monday–Friday, 8am to 6pm. We’re closed on weekends and observe major holidays; our annual closure calendar (including a few staff development days) is shared at enrollment and posted on our website. Limited early drop‑off/late pick‑up may be available with advance notice—please contact us for current availability and rates.

Question 8

What is the admission process and what requirements must be met for enrollment?

Accepted Answer

We are licensed to serve children ages 2–5. If your child is younger than 2, please check back as they approach their 2nd birthday.

Admission process
- Contact us to check current availability for your child’s age group and to schedule a tour.
- Submit an application. If a space is not immediately available, we’ll place you on our waitlist and keep you updated.
- When a space is offered, you’ll receive an enrollment packet and a start date.
Enrollment requirements
- Child is between 2 and 5 years old by the start date.
- Completion of state-required health and licensing forms (e.g., up-to-date immunization record, physician’s report, emergency contacts/consents). Requirements are set by California Community Care Licensing and may be updated.
- Review and acknowledgement of our parent policies/handbook.
- Tuition payment (and any applicable enrollment deposit) to reserve your child’s spot.

To get started or ask about openings, email info@sunflowercdc.com.

Question 9

What enrollment availability is there at Sunflower Child Development Center?

Accepted Answer

Enrollment changes throughout the year and varies by classroom/age group. We offer rolling enrollment and fill openings as children transition to the next class or families move, so availability can shift week to week. The best way to get an accurate answer for your child is to contact our front office with your child’s age and desired start date—our team will share any current openings or an estimated timeline and waitlist details. We encourage families to reach out early so we can guide you through a tour and the application process. Please contact us for the most up‑to‑date availability.

Question 10

Is a half-day option available for this program?

Accepted Answer

We primarily offer full‑day enrollment to support consistent routines and learning. Limited half‑day placements may be available in select classrooms depending on age group, staffing, and the time of year. If you need shorter hours, you’re welcome to do an early pick‑up from a full‑day spot; tuition and availability for true half‑day placements vary.

Question 11

Do you allow part-time enrollment for preschool?

Accepted Answer

Yes—no problem. We offer both full-time and part-time preschool schedules (2 or 3 days per week). Availability varies by age group; please make an appointment for a tour on our website (www.sunflowercdc.com) for the most up-to-date information, or contact us at info@sunflowercdc.com.

Question 12

Can we have a tour of your location?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We love meeting prospective families and offer guided tours by appointment so we can keep our classrooms calm, safe, and focused for the children.
- When: Weekday mornings or early afternoons; tours run about 20–30 minutes. We don’t offer drop‑in visits.
- What you’ll see: Our bright classrooms, outdoor play area and playground, and you’ll learn about our programs, curriculum, and our homemade organic meals prepared fresh on site.
- Who can come: Parents/guardians are welcome to bring their child. Please bring a photo ID and postpone if anyone in your party is feeling unwell.
- How to schedule: Use the “Schedule a Tour” request on our website or contact us directly. Virtual tours are available upon request. If a classroom is full, we can place you on the waitlist during your visit.
To respect children’s routines and privacy, some rooms may be observed from the doorway depending on the time of day.

Question 13

What is the tuition at Sunflower Child Development Center?

Accepted Answer

Tuition at Sunflower Child Development Center varies based on your child’s age group and the schedule you choose (full-time or part-time, number of days). Because rates may be adjusted periodically and depend on availability, we don’t post a single rate online. Please contact our front desk to request the current tuition sheet and available schedules.
Tuition includes our fresh, homemade organic meals and snacks, a rich, age-appropriate curriculum, and classroom materials. The tuition sheet will also outline any one-time enrollment or materials fees and our billing timelines.

Question 14

What is included in the monthly tuition, such as meals, snacks, learning materials, and special activities?

Accepted Answer

Your monthly tuition covers the core program at Sunflower Child Development Center so there are no surprise add‑ons for everyday learning and care. It includes:
- Fresh, homemade organic meals and snacks prepared daily in our kitchen
- All classroom curriculum and learning materials (age‑appropriate toys, books, art and sensory supplies)
- Daily teacher‑led activities and enrichment (art, music, early literacy/early STEM) and outdoor play on our delightful playground
- A safe, clean environment and loving care from our qualified teachers

Items that are not included and may be family‑provided or billed separately (as applicable):
- Optional extracurricular/third‑party programs
- Field trips or special event fees
- Late pick‑up fees
- Personal care items (e.g., diapers, wipes) and specialty dietary items

Details can vary by classroom, age group, and schedule. Please contact our office for the most current inclusions for your child’s program.

Question 15

Are there any additional fees or registration costs?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We keep pricing clear and avoid surprises.
One-time registration fee (non-refundable) due at enrollment covers family record setup and processing required onboarding paperwork per state requirements
Enrollment deposit to secure your child’s spot credited to your final month with required 30-day notice
Annual materials and supplies fee supports classroom resources and curriculum
Optional add-ons extra days or classes billed only if used
Administrative fees may apply for late pick-up or returned payments

See our Tuition and Fees schedule for exact amounts and dates.
Contact admissions for current details.

Question 16

How do I pay the registration fee and deposit?

Accepted Answer

After we confirm your child’s start date, we’ll put your family information into ProCare and you will see the invoice for the registration fee and deposit there. Please send us both parents’/guardians’ email addresses so we can set up your ProCare account and send the invite. You can pay the invoice securely through ProCare. If you don’t see the invoice or need help, email info@sunflowercdc.com.

Question 17

Do you offer a discount if two kids attend the Center?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Families with more than one child enrolled receive a 5% sibling discount. It’s available for full-time and part-time schedules, please get in touch with us for current tuition and how the discount would apply to your enrollment.

Question 18

Are there any required materials or supplies parents need to provide?

Accepted Answer

We provide all learning materials and classroom supplies, and we serve fresh, homemade organic meals and snacks daily. Families are asked to send a few personal items so your child is comfortable and prepared.

Please provide (labeled with your child’s name):
- Two complete sets of seasonal clothing (top, bottoms, socks, underwear)
- Diapers/pull-ups and wipes (if your child uses them); diaper cream as needed
- Weather-appropriate gear: closed-toe shoes, sun hat, jacket/rain boots as needed
- Sunscreen (or signed permission to use the center’s brand)
- Any medication with a completed medication authorization form
- Optional: a labeled water bottle, per classroom guidelines

Helpful notes:
- Please label everything and refresh supplies regularly; your child’s teacher will let you know when items need replacing.
- For allergies or dietary restrictions, send any specialty items your child needs.
- Please do not send toys, candy, or valuables from home.

A detailed, age-specific checklist is provided at enrollment and by your child’s classroom.

Question 19

Is toilet training required for enrollment?

Accepted Answer

No. Toilet training is not required to enroll at Sunflower. We welcome children in diapers or pull‑ups and partner with families on a child‑led, consistent potty‑training plan once your child shows signs of readiness. In our older preschool/Pre‑K rooms we encourage growing independence and support the transition together. Please pack diapers/pull‑ups, wipes, and a couple of changes of clothes; accidents are expected and handled calmly, privately, and hygienically. If you have specific questions about your child’s readiness, our teachers and director are happy to discuss a plan with you.

Question 20

What language is usually used between teachers and children at the preschool?

Accepted Answer

We use both English and Russian with children. Teachers speak English with English‑speaking students and use Russian with Russian‑speaking children as needed. If your family prefers English only, we will use English with your child. Children are not isolated by language—everyone participates together in daily activities. Our team is experienced supporting language development; please share your goals and we’ll partner with you.

Question 21

Does the center provide meals and snacks, or should parents prepare breakfast, lunch, and snacks for their child?

Accepted Answer

We serve homemade organic meals and snacks prepared fresh in our on‑site kitchen each day. Breakfast, lunch, and morning/afternoon snacks are included in tuition, so parents do not need to pack food unless they prefer to. We can accommodate most allergies and dietary preferences—please share any restrictions during enrollment so we can plan safely. Families are welcome to send food from home if desired; just let your child’s teacher know about any dietary notes.

Frequently Asked Questions