The Best Daycare Centers in Glendale, AZ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Glendale. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Glendale
KinderCare Learning Center at Bell Road
KinderCare
This center is part of the nationally recognized KinderCare network, offering a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through play-based learning. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing training, with low teacher-to-child ratios ensuring personalized attention. The facility features secure keypad entry, fenced outdoor play areas, and age-appropriate classrooms equipped with modern learning materials. Parents praise the center for its strong communication, nutritious meal programs, and focus on developmental milestones, making it a trusted choice for families in Glendale.
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Primrose School of North Glendale
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of North Glendale follows the Balanced Learning® approach, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities to foster academic readiness, character development, and creativity. The curriculum includes music, art, and physical education, with certified teachers trained in early childhood best practices. Safety is prioritized through monitored access, daily health checks, and hygienic environments. The center offers spacious indoor and outdoor play areas, and parents highlight the engaging activities, strong parent-teacher partnerships, and inclusive community atmosphere as key strengths.
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The Goddard School of Glendale
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School utilizes the F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program, which promotes cognitive, social, and physical development through play-based, academic-focused activities. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain small class sizes for individualized care. The facility includes secure entry systems, clean and organized classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents commend the school for its robust communication, enrichment programs like yoga and Spanish, and commitment to safety, making it a top-rated option in the Glendale area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Glendale, AZ
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Glendale, AZ, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In Glendale, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), Office of Child Care Licensure. This includes centers, group homes, and family homes caring for more than four children unrelated to the provider. Licensing ensures compliance with state standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and fingerprint clearance), health and safety protocols, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license, you can use the ADHS "Child Care Facility Search" tool online. You can search by facility name, location, or license number to view their current status, any past violations, and inspection reports. It's a crucial first step for any parent in Glendale to ensure a facility operates legally and meets minimum safety standards.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Glendale, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
The average cost for full-time infant daycare in Glendale typically ranges from $900 to $1,300 per month, though premium centers or those with specialized curricula may charge more. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs are slightly lower, averaging $800 to $1,100 monthly. These rates can vary based on location within Glendale, the facility's amenities, and whether meals are included. For financial assistance, Arizona's Department of Economic Security (DES) administers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provides subsidies to eligible low-income families. Additionally, some Glendale employers may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), and local non-profits or community action agencies can sometimes provide guidance or limited support. It's recommended to contact DES directly or speak with potential daycare providers, as some may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Glendale, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care and highly-rated centers in popular Glendale neighborhoods like Arrowhead, Westgate, or near the Glendale Community College area. For infant spots, it is strongly advised to begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before your needed start date. For toddler or preschool programs, 3 to 6 months in advance is a safer bet. Many parents in Glendale report placing their child on multiple waitlists. When touring a facility, always ask about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy (if any) to hold a spot, and how often they update families on their status. Starting early provides more options and reduces last-minute stress.
What are some key factors to consider when choosing between a large daycare center and a smaller in-home provider in Glendale?
This choice depends on your family's priorities. Large daycare centers in Glendale (often part of chains or located in commercial spaces) typically offer structured curricula, multiple classrooms by age, larger outdoor play areas, and may have more robust backup staff. They are subject to regular state inspections. Smaller, licensed family childcare homes offer a home-like environment, often with mixed-age groups, potentially more flexible hours, and may be more convenient in residential neighborhoods. They can provide more individualized care but may have fewer resources. In Glendale, consider your commute, your child's temperament, the provider's licensing record (checkable via ADHS), and the specific safety and educational philosophy of each option. Touring both types is the best way to gauge the right fit.
Beyond basic care, what types of enrichment or educational programs are typically offered by preschools in Glendale?
Glendale preschools and daycare centers with preschool programs often offer a variety of enrichment activities aligned with Arizona's Early Learning Standards. Common programs include structured early literacy and math readiness, STEM activities, arts and crafts, and music and movement. Many centers also incorporate optional extracurriculars, which may incur an additional fee, such as introductory Spanish language lessons, soccer programs (like Soccer Shots), dance, or yoga. Given Glendale's diverse community and proximity to sports venues, some centers may have themes related to local culture or sports. When touring, ask about the daily schedule, the curriculum framework used (like Creative Curriculum or Montessori), and how they prepare children for the transition to Glendale Elementary School District or other local kindergarten programs.