The Best Daycare Centers in Avon, CT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Avon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Avon
The Goddard School of Avon
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Avon offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with interactive technology. Curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development through hands-on learning. Parents appreciate the daily communication through their proprietary app and the comprehensive safety protocols including background-checked staff and regular security drills.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Avon
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Avon provides research-based early education through their World at Their Fingertips curriculum, developed by early childhood experts. The center features purpose-built learning environments with dedicated infant rooms, toddler discovery areas, and preschool learning centers. Their emergent curriculum adapts to children's interests while meeting developmental milestones. The highly qualified teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. Safety features include keypad entry, comprehensive health screening procedures, and secure outdoor play spaces. The center is particularly noted for its strong parent partnership approach and corporate backup care options.
Daycare Services:
Avon Children's Center
Avon Children's Center LLC
Avon Children's Center is a locally owned and operated facility offering comprehensive childcare services with a play-based learning approach. Their curriculum emphasizes social development, cognitive skills, and kindergarten readiness through structured activities and free play. The center features spacious classrooms, multiple outdoor play areas, and a dedicated indoor gym for active play during inclement weather. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with many holding advanced degrees in early childhood education. The center maintains excellent staff retention and low turnover, providing consistency for children. Parents consistently praise the warm, family-like atmosphere and the center's strong communication about child development progress.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Avon, CT
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Avon, CT?
In Avon, CT, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,200 per month. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, averaging between $1,300 and $1,800 per month. These rates are influenced by factors such as the type of facility (center-based vs. in-home), the staff-to-child ratio, the inclusion of meals and educational curricula, and the specific program's amenities. Costs in Avon are generally consistent with the broader Farmington Valley area and are often higher than the state median due to the town's demographics and cost of living. It's important to inquire about what is included in the tuition, such as diapers, wipes, and formula, as these can add significant out-of-pocket expenses if not provided.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Avon, and how can I improve my chances of securing a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded licensed daycare centers in Avon can be substantial, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest capacity limits under Connecticut law. To improve your chances, it is highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. When contacting centers, be flexible with your desired start date if possible, and ask about their specific waitlist policies—some require a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Avon and neighboring towns like Simsbury or Farmington, which may have shorter wait times and offer a more intimate setting.
What are the key state licensing requirements I should verify when touring a daycare in Avon?
All childcare providers in Avon must be licensed by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC). Key requirements you should verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 12 months), **Background Checks** for all employees, **Health and Safety Training** including CPR/First Aid certification, and **Facility Compliance** with fire, health, and safety codes. You can and should ask the director for their current license to be displayed. For an independent check, you can use the OEC's online "Look Up a License" tool to view the provider's licensing status, any history of violations, and their compliance reports. This due diligence is crucial for your child's safety.
Are there any local resources or programs in Avon that help parents find and evaluate childcare options?
Yes, Avon parents have several excellent local resources. The primary resource is the **Connecticut Office of Early Childhood's Care 4 Kids** program, which provides financial assistance to eligible families and also offers a searchable database of licensed providers. Regionally, the **Capital Region Education Council (CREC)** offers early childhood resources and may have information on programs. For hands-on help, consider contacting **The Avon Free Public Library's Children's Department**; librarians often have community knowledge and may host parent groups. Additionally, local parenting groups on social media platforms like Facebook (e.g., "Avon, CT Moms") are invaluable for getting personal recommendations and experiences from other families in town.
What types of preschool programs are integrated into daycare centers in Avon, and what should I look for in a quality curriculum?
Many daycare centers in Avon offer integrated preschool programs for children ages 3-5, often following models like Creative Curriculum, Montessori, or play-based approaches with a focus on school readiness. When evaluating a curriculum, look for a balance of structured learning and free play, with clear goals for social-emotional development, early literacy, and math skills. High-quality programs will have certified lead teachers (often with Early Childhood Education degrees), provide regular assessments and parent-teacher conferences, and maintain a stimulating environment with diverse learning centers (e.g., reading, art, blocks). Specifically in Avon, some centers have partnerships with the Avon Public School system to align pre-K goals, which can ease the transition to kindergarten. Always ask for a daily schedule and examples of lesson plans.