top of page
CggYHFaMpF2AYB4SACMgMKb9CT8592_C_750_350

Joy Picus Child Development Center

The Joy Picus Child Development Center is located in the Downtown Los Angeles Civic Center area. Our center first opened its doors in 1989. In 1996, the center was dedicated to past council member Joy Picus, whose dedication to young children pioneered the first childcare center that was to provide child care services to city employees.

Joy Picus Child Development Center: About Us

Hours & Schedule

Regular Operation Hours are Mon - Fri: 6:30 am - 6:00 pm

Our centers are open year round excluding weekends and major holidays.

All programs are full-day. 

Full-time schedule is 5-day attendance; Mon. - Fri. 

Part-time schedule is available for 4-days, 3-days (Mon., Wed. & Fri.) or 2-days (Tue. & Thu.)

Tours are available by appointment only please call (213) 978-0026

Joy Picus Child Development Center: Opening Hours
Babies in Playroom

Teacher-Parent partnerships are key to support positive learning experiences. Family days are held throughout the year to support relationships

Culturally competent curriculum. We believe it is our responsibility as educators to help prepare children with the knowledge, attitude, and skills to be able to excel in our diverse world

The center's curriculum is play based and emergent, incorporating elements of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM)

Community focused. Weekly field trips to the local farmers market and library and other local community spaces

On-site program services director who works with the center directors, teachers, and families to support children’s social, emotional, and developmental challenges in the classroom

The curriculum is Anti-bias and developmentally appropriate. Potty learning is encouraged when the child shows interest and signs of readiness, it is not required in any classroom

Joy Picus Child Development Center: List

Infant & Toddler Program

Responsive Care and Support

The infant and toddler program follows the primary caregiver model, creating a secure and caring environment for the child. The focus of the infant program is to observe and support the development of essential milestones and provide a safe and secure environment that encourages positive and healthy growth.

Infant Room

  • Infant room is for children 6 weeks old to steady walkers

  • 4:1 Teacher/Child ratio

  • Capacity of 12 children

Toddler 1 Room

  • Toddler room is for steady walkers up to children 24 months old

  • Toddlers: 4:1 Teacher/Child ratio

  • Capacity of 12 children

Toddler 2 Room

  • Children ages 2 to 3 years old

  • 6:1 Teacher/Child ratio

  • Capacity of 24 Children

California Community Care Licensing Division LIC 198015240

thumbnail_15845DC433034490B3C4F5D74A6BF8
Joy Picus Child Development Center: Programs
thumbnail_4A1C574CC97A4B4BB28827B9A7BB67

Preschool Program

Emergent Curriculum Based Learning

The focus in the preschool classrooms is developing social skills, positive peer interactions, building a positive self-identity and beginning self-help skills. Teachers create lesson plans according to the children's interests, creating provocations and incorporating STEAM activities to spark the children's curiosity and support the children in developing the foundations of learning in a meaningful way.

Preschool Room

  • Children ages 3 to 5 years old

  • 10:1 Teacher/ Child ratio 

  • Capacity of 36 Children

California Community Care Licensing Division LIC 198015239

Joy Picus Child Development Center: Programs

Tuition Rates

July 2023 - June 2024

City employee verification will be required to qualify for the City rate.

Payment arrangements are available for tuition payments.

There are no tuition credits or adjustments for illness, holidays, vacations or circumstances beyond our control.

Monthly Tuition Rates

Enrollment Fee: $155.00

Enrollment Priority:

  • Employees of the City of Los Angeles

  • Families enrolled part-time

  • Families with enrolled siblings

  • All other community families

Wait List

Wait List Fee:  $90.00

  • The waitlist fee is non-refundable

  • One fee is required per child and per center

  • You will remain on the wait list until your child ages out of all our programs

Joy Picus Child Development Center: Price List
bottom of page