Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Bright Bears Child Care licensed?
A: Yes. Bright Bears Child Care is fully licensed and regulated by the state of California. Our program meets all state requirements for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-caregiver ratios.

Q: Where are you located?
A: We are located at 3225 Knightswood Way, San Jose, CA 95148 on the East Side of San Jose. Street parking is available for drop-off and pick-up.

Q: What are your hours of operation?
A: We are open Wednesday through Sunday. Please contact us directly for current hours and seasonal schedule variations.

Q: How long has Bright Bears been open?

A: Bright Bears Child Care was founded in 2019 by Ashley S., a credentialed early childhood educator with over ten years of experience. We have been proudly serving San Jose families ever since.

Q: Has Bright Bears received any awards or recognition?

A: Yes — we are proud winners of the 2025 TrustedCare Parents’ Choice Award, a five-star honor voted on by the families we serve. It is one of the most meaningful recognitions we have received because it comes directly from our community.

Enrollment & Registration

Q: What ages do you accept?
A: Bright Bears Child Care welcomes infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children. Our mixed-age environment is one of the things that makes our program truly unique.

Q: How do I enroll my child?
A: The first step is to reach out by phone or email to check availability. From there we will schedule a tour, walk you through our registration paperwork, and get your child’s spot secured. Visit our Registration page for a full step-by-step breakdown.

Q: Do you have a waitlist?
A: Spots at Bright Bears fill quickly. We recommend reaching out as early as possible to check current availability for your child’s age group.

Q: Is there a registration fee or deposit?
A: Please contact us directly for current deposit and registration fee information as these details may vary.

Q: Do you offer part-time enrollment?
A: Yes. We offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate the needs of working families. Contact us to discuss what works best for your situation.

Programs & Curriculum

Q: What kind of curriculum do you follow?
A: Bright Bears follows a play-based curriculum rooted in early childhood development best practices. Children engage in language arts, early literacy, music and movement, arts and crafts, gymnastics, martial arts, and soccer — all designed to nurture the whole child physically, emotionally, and intellectually.

Q: How much screen time do children have?
A: We strictly limit screen time at Bright Bears. We believe children learn best through hands-on, real-world experiences — and our daily schedule reflects that.

Q: What is a mixed-age learning environment?
A: At Bright Bears, infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children learn and grow alongside one another. This intentional approach builds leadership and empathy in older children while sparking curiosity and confidence in younger ones — mirroring the way children naturally learn in the real world.

Q: Do you offer before and after school care?
A: Yes. We offer before and after school care with supervised activities, games, and structured play tailored to school-age children.

Q: Do you offer transportation?
A: Yes. Transportation services are available for an additional fee. Please call us directly for a quote based on your location.

Activities & Classes

Q: What activities and classes do you offer?
A: Bright Bears offers gymnastics with Miss Elizabeth, martial arts and self-defense with Miss Jazzy, and soccer — all led by experienced, passionate instructors. These classes are designed to build physical confidence, coordination, discipline, and teamwork in a fun and encouraging environment.

Q: What age can children start the activity classes?
A: Our activity classes are designed to be age-appropriate and beginner-friendly. Contact us for specific age recommendations for each program.

Q: Are the activity classes included in tuition?
A: Please contact us directly for current information on activity class pricing and what is included in your enrollment package.

Daily Life at Bright Bears

Q: Do you provide meals and snacks?
A: Yes. Bright Bears provides fresh, nutritious meals and snacks prepared daily. Families do not need to send a lunch box. We believe good nutrition is an essential part of a great day.

Q: How do you keep parents updated throughout the day?
A: We provide regular updates to parents about their child’s daily activities, progress, and milestones. Open communication with families is one of our core commitments.

Q: Do you support children with special needs?
A: Absolutely. Bright Bears collaborates with licensed therapists to support children with developmental and speech needs. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where every child is welcomed, supported, and celebrated.

Q: What is your sick child policy?
A: To protect the health of all children and staff, we ask that sick children stay home until they are symptom-free. Please contact us directly for our full health and illness policy.

Q: What should my child bring on their first day?
A: We recommend a change of clothes, diapers and wipes if applicable, any comfort items your child may need, and labeled personal belongings. We provide all meals and snacks so no lunch box is necessary.

Tuition & Payments

Q: How much does Bright Bears Child Care cost?
A: Tuition varies based on your child’s age, enrollment schedule, and selected programs. We offer flexible options to fit a range of family budgets. Contact us directly for current rates and a personalized quote.
Q: Do you offer any discounts?
A: Yes — we have a referral program that rewards current families who refer new enrolling families. Both the referring family and the new family receive 10% off the following month’s tuition. Ask us about it when you reach out.
Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
A: Please contact us directly for current payment method information.