The Best Daycare Centers in Gilbert, AZ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gilbert. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gilbert
The Learning Experience - Gilbert
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Gilbert offers a comprehensive early education curriculum with proprietary programs like L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) and phonics-based instruction. The center features bright, modern classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers, secure entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Highly qualified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices with low student-teacher ratios. The facility emphasizes character development through their "Happiness Happens Here" philosophy and includes enrichment programs like soccer, yoga, and music. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean facilities, and strong academic preparation.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Gilbert
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Gilbert follows the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that blends teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and life skills. The curriculum includes literacy, math, science, social studies, and creative arts integrated throughout the day. The center features secure facilities with keypad entry, age-specific playgrounds, and dedicated music and art rooms. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains rigorous health and safety protocols. Parents consistently report excellent communication through the Primrose Schools app and appreciate the structured yet nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten.
Daycare Services:
Kid's Corner Preschool & Childcare Center
Kid's Corner
Kid's Corner is a locally owned and operated childcare center that has served Gilbert families for over a decade. The center implements a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on social-emotional development and kindergarten readiness. Their curriculum includes STEAM activities, literacy development, and hands-on learning experiences. The facility features secure classrooms with observation windows, multiple outdoor play areas with safety surfaces, and a commercial kitchen providing nutritious meals. Staff members receive ongoing professional development and maintain CPR/first aid certification. Parents particularly appreciate the family-like atmosphere, consistent staff retention, and flexible scheduling options for working families.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gilbert, AZ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool for an infant or toddler in Gilbert, AZ?
In Gilbert, the cost of childcare varies significantly based on the type of center, its amenities, and the child's age. For a full-time infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,600 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. In-home licensed daycare providers may offer slightly lower rates, often between $800 and $1,200 monthly. These costs are generally higher than the Arizona state average, reflecting Gilbert's suburban family-oriented community and higher cost of living. It's important to ask what is included in tuition, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and enrichment programs.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Gilbert, and how can I improve my chances of securing a spot?
Waitlists for highly-rated daycare centers and preschools in Gilbert can be lengthy, especially for infant rooms. It's not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. To improve your chances, start your search and get on lists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. Be proactive: get on multiple lists, follow up with centers every 4-6 weeks to express continued interest, and be flexible with your desired start date if possible. Some centers may offer priority to siblings of current students or employees of local corporate partners. Exploring newer centers or those in developing parts of Gilbert (like the southeast areas) may also have shorter wait times.
What specific licensing and safety regulations should I verify for a childcare provider in Arizona?
All legal childcare providers in Gilbert must be licensed by the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), Office of Child Care Licensure. You should verify a provider's license is current and view their compliance history online through the ADHS facility lookup portal. Key state regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:5 for infants, 1:6 for toddlers), background checks for all staff, required immunizations for children, and annual training in CPR/first aid and prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome. Additionally, facilities must meet health, safety, and space requirements. Don't hesitate to ask a director for their most recent licensing inspection report, which details any citations.
Are there any unique local programs or resources in Gilbert to help parents find and afford quality childcare?
Yes, Gilbert parents have several local resources. First, the **Gilbert Early Childhood Education Program** offers high-quality preschool options at select district elementary schools, often at a lower cost than private centers. For financial assistance, Arizona's **Department of Economic Security (DES)** administers the Child Care Assistance program for qualifying families. Additionally, the **United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona** (serving the region) operates the 2-1-1 helpline and online database for childcare referrals. The **Town of Gilbert Parks & Recreation** department also offers various preschool, before/after-school, and camp programs that can complement childcare needs. Checking with your employer for possible Dependent Care FSA benefits or corporate discounts is also recommended.
What are the main differences between a large daycare center, a small in-home daycare, and a Montessori preschool in Gilbert?
In Gilbert, your choice largely depends on your child's needs and your family's philosophy. **Large Daycare Centers** (e.g., national chains or large local centers) often offer structured curricula, extended hours, multiple classrooms by age, and larger facilities with playgrounds. They follow strict state ratios and have multiple staff. **Licensed In-Home Daycares** (typically 5-12 children) provide a home-like environment, often with mixed-age groups, more flexible schedules, and potentially lower costs. They are run by a single provider in their residence. **Montessori Preschools** (like several in Gilbert's Heritage District) focus on child-led learning within prepared environments for specific age groups (e.g., 3-6 years), with an emphasis on independence and hands-on materials. They often have shorter, school-like hours and may not offer infant care. Touring each type is crucial to feel the environment and ask about their daily routines, discipline policies, and educational approach.