24/7 childcare in southern california (Orange: daycare, quality of life, living in)

[alistuart]

Hi,
I am getting ready to move to Southern California and start a job as a nurse. I am a single mother and I am looking for 24/7 childcare centers that you can recommend.
Thanx.

[JadedStone]

Options for Childcare are limited. As with everything else. If you're a Nurse why not go to Canada or other parts of the World that offer much more benefits to you and your child(ren) and better quality of life? The quality of life in California is probably the worst in the nation because of pollution, stress, and the lack of good education for children. Be smart don't come here.

[TwinMom06]

The only 24 childcare in Southern California is having a nanny. The going rate in the West LA area is $15 per hour for 1 child and $18 per hour for 2 children for a live-out nanny. For a live-in nanny, you can pay less and provide room & board also.

The daycare centers have limited hours. Ones with the longest hours open at 7:30am and close at 6pm, and charge $20 per minute that you are late. I strongly do not suggest daycare center if you do not have a regular 9-5 schedule.

[twins4lynn]

Check with the hospital that you plan to work at. Some hospitals contract out with nearby childcare centers to provide off-hours childcare for hospital employees who work non-traditional hours.

[PrettyRican]

Living in southern california it is pretty hit or miss with 24/7 childcare. The only real option is having a live-in or full time nanny. Although being a parent of two and having a full time nanny, I have been screwed by a few also. You really have to find the right person. I have been through about 7 nannys, because of things like stealing, and I even had one hit my daughter. I have learned the best kind of full time nanny, is your neice or nephew!
But I also agree with the man above, Southern California is not a great place to live. And actually, I am currently looking at moving away from Orange county for the sake of my family. Its hard for children growing up in this area because there is so much compition. If you have any doubts about moving into southern california...THEN DO NOT COME. Trust me, the problems get worse once you live here.