Ranked among the top 10 childcare centers in Hawthorne. Fewer than half of all centers in the city reach this level across our full 11-dimension scoring.
Full Ranking Detail
Head StartPreschoolAges 2-5SubsidizedNon-Profit
Crystal Stairs Head Start – Hawthorne Plaza is a federally funded Head Start center at 4300-A W 120th St in Hawthorne, serving ages 3–5 in its center-based program (with separate infant and toddler care through family child care). Operated by Crystal Stairs, a well-established LA County nonprofit with decades of childcare expertise, the center serves low-income families through free or heavily subsidized enrollment and provides full-day services for working parents or those in vocational training. With a capacity of 116 children, comprehensive Head Start services including nutritional meals, social services, and language support are available across the organization's 16 locations. The center has been licensed since 2019 and maintains active inspections; however, one Type A (serious) citation appears on record and warrants review on CCLD before enrolling.
Safety5.0
Curriculum6.0
Art / Music5.0
Infant care4.0
Kindergarten readiness6.0
Teacher quality6.0
Compassion6.0
Management5.0
Culture5.0
Extracurriculars5.0
Programs & curriculum
Curriculum & approach: Head Start program emphasizing active learning experiences to develop children's physical, social, and mental health abilities. Focuses on intellectual and social development through self-confidence, spontaneity, curiosity, and self-discipline.
Programs & activities: Active learning experiences, nutritional snacks and meals, social services, parent involvement activities, and services for children with disabilities. Supports maintaining the child's cultural heritage and primary language, and learning a second language when possible.
What sets it apart: Comprehensive Head Start services for low-income families in Compton and South Los Angeles across 16 locations; center-based serves ages 3-5 and Family Child Care serves 0-48 months. Full-day services available (eligibility requires employment or enrollment in a vocational/training program); nutritional meals provided.
Recognition of Excellence — Website Badge
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Top 10 in Hawthorne
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<strong style="display:block;font-size:15px;color:#1A1A18;margin-bottom:5px;">Top 10 in Hawthorne</strong>
<span style="font-size:13px;color:#4A4A46;line-height:1.5;">Ranked among the top 10 childcare centers in Hawthorne. Fewer than half of all centers in the city reach this level across our full 11-dimension scoring.</span>
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This recognition is awarded independently by Creative Minds Montessori based on publicly available parent reviews and public records. Centers do not pay for or request these rankings. Scores reflect editorial synthesis of verified parent experience — not center marketing materials. Rankings are updated periodically as new reviews are analyzed.
