The Best Preschools in Travis AFB, CA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Travis AFB. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Travis Air Force Base Child Development Center
United States Air Force
The official Travis AFB Child Development Center provides high-quality early childhood education specifically designed for military families. This Department of Defense-certified facility offers comprehensive developmental programs with trained early childhood professionals. The center features age-appropriate curriculum focusing on social-emotional development, cognitive skills, and school readiness. Security is paramount with controlled base access and strict safety protocols. Programs are designed to support the unique needs of military families with flexible scheduling and understanding of deployment cycles.
Programs Offered:
Primrose School of Vacaville
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Vacaville is a highly-regarded private preschool located approximately 10 minutes from Travis AFB, serving many military families from the base. The school follows the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, mathematics, and social skills in a nurturing environment. The facility features secure entry systems, trained teaching staff with early childhood credentials, and comprehensive safety protocols. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, educational quality, and supportive environment for military children.
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KinderCare at Vacaville
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Vacaville is a well-established early learning center conveniently located for Travis AFB families, approximately 8 miles from the base. This nationally accredited facility offers comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum focusing on academic, social, and emotional development. The center features secure facilities with keypad entry, trained teachers with early childhood education backgrounds, and structured learning environments. Their program includes STEM learning, literacy development, and social skills building. Many military families choose this center for its reliability, experienced staff, and understanding of military family needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Travis AFB, CA:
What are the main options for preschool at Travis AFB, and how do I access on-base childcare?
The primary on-base option is the Child Development Center (CDC), which offers full-day preschool programs for children 3-5 years old. Military families should register through the MilitaryChildCare.com website to get on the centralized waitlist as early as possible, as priority is given by duty status. There are also several licensed home-based providers in the Family Child Care (FCC) network on base, which can offer more flexible hours.
How does California's state preschool program work for families living at Travis AFB?
California State Preschool Program (CSPP) slots are available through the local school district, Travis Unified, and some community-based organizations in Fairfield/Vacaville. These programs are often part-day and income-eligible, but military families should still apply as BAH is not counted as income for eligibility determinations. You can contact the Solano County Office of Education for a referral to local CSPP providers.
What should I look for in an off-base preschool in the surrounding Fairfield/Vacaville area?
Look for programs licensed by the California Department of Social Services with a clear curriculum (like Montessori, play-based, or academic). Given the base's location, prioritize schools with strong security protocols and convenient hours for military shift work. Visiting and asking about teacher qualifications (many require Early Childhood Education units) and teacher-to-child ratios is crucial.
Are there preschools that accommodate the unpredictable schedules common to military life at Travis AFB?
The on-base CDC and FCC homes are most familiar with military demands and may offer more flexibility for extended hours or last-minute care during exercises or deployments. Some off-base centers in the community also offer "drop-in" or flexible scheduling options, though these are less common. Always discuss your specific schedule needs upfront during tours.
What resources are available on Travis AFB to help me evaluate and choose a preschool?
Your first stop should be the Airman & Family Readiness Center (A&FRC) or the CDC itself for referrals and guidance. They can provide checklists for evaluating quality and information on local options. Additionally, you can use the California Department of Social Services' online "Child Care Lookup" tool to review licensing reports and any history of violations for off-base facilities.
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