The Best Daycare Centers in Farmington, CT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Farmington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Farmington
The Goddard School of Farmington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Farmington offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated outdoor play areas. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and character education, with daily communication through their proprietary mobile app. What sets this center apart is their commitment to play-based learning within a structured environment and their comprehensive safety protocols including regular security drills and health screenings.
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Bright Horizons at Farmington
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Farmington provides a research-based curriculum called The World at Their Fingertips that emphasizes emergent curriculum and project-based learning. The center features highly qualified early childhood educators with bachelor's degrees and specialized training in child development. Their facility includes dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, toddler learning centers, and preschool classrooms equipped with smart board technology. The program emphasizes literacy development, mathematical thinking, and social skills through hands-on exploration. Notable features include their Emergent Curriculum approach where learning follows children's interests, nutritious meals prepared on-site, and comprehensive health and safety protocols including secured access and regular facility maintenance.
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The Children's Studio
Independent
The Children's Studio is a locally-owned, NAEYC-accredited childcare center known for its Reggio Emilia-inspired approach to early childhood education. Their experienced teaching staff includes master's level educators who create project-based learning experiences that encourage creativity and critical thinking. The facility features spacious, well-lit classrooms with natural materials, an art studio, and extensive outdoor learning environments including gardens and natural play spaces. Their curriculum integrates literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through long-term investigations that follow children's interests. The center stands out for its strong parent partnership model, low teacher-to-child ratios, and commitment to environmental education and sustainability practices.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Farmington, CT
What are the typical costs for infant and toddler daycare in Farmington, CT, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Farmington, CT, full-time daycare for infants typically ranges from $1,400 to $1,800 per month, while toddler care generally costs between $1,200 and $1,600 per month. These rates are influenced by factors such as the type of facility (center-based vs. home-based), staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities. For financial assistance, Connecticut's Care 4 Kids program is the primary state-subsidized option for eligible families based on income and need. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with your employer, as companies in the greater Hartford area, including those in Farmington's business parks, may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or partnerships with specific providers.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Farmington, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for high-quality, licensed daycare centers in Farmington can be substantial, especially for infant rooms. It is common to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for popular centers. To improve your chances, we recommend starting your search and getting on multiple lists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before your needed start date. Be proactive: follow up with centers every 4-6 weeks to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Farmington and neighboring towns like Avon or Unionville, as they may have shorter wait times and offer a more intimate setting.
What are the key differences between a licensed childcare center and a licensed family childcare home in Connecticut, and how do I verify a provider's license?
In Connecticut, licensed childcare centers are facilities that care for more than 12 children in a non-residential setting, with structured programs and multiple staff members. Licensed family childcare homes operate out of the provider's residence and care for a maximum of 6 children (with specific ratios for infants). Centers often offer more structured curricula and larger peer groups, while homes provide a family-like environment with mixed ages and potentially more flexible hours. To verify a provider's license, compliance history, and any reported violations, you must use the **State of Connecticut's Office of Early Childhood (OEC) Online Lookup Tool**. This public database is the most reliable source for confirming a provider is in good standing and viewing their licensing history.
Are there part-time or flexible childcare options available in Farmington for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
While most traditional daycare centers in Farmington operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 7:00 am to 6:00 pm schedule, finding part-time or flexible care can be challenging but not impossible. Some centers offer part-time slots (e.g., 2-3 days per week), but these are often limited and may still require paying a near-full-time rate. Your best bet for true flexibility is to seek out licensed family childcare homes, as providers may offer more customized hours, including early mornings, evenings, or occasional weekend care. Additionally, you can explore local nanny shares or use reputable caregiver matching services that serve the Farmington Valley area. For drop-in or occasional care, facilities like the Farmington Community & Senior Center or local gyms with childcare (e.g., the YMCA in nearby Plainville) may offer limited hourly options.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in Farmington, and are there any local resources to help me evaluate options?
During a tour in Farmington, look beyond the facilities. Key things to observe include: the interaction between staff and children (are they engaged and responsive?), cleanliness and safety measures (secured exits, safe sleep practices for infants), and the overall mood of the classroom (is it chaotic or calmly busy?). Ask specific questions about staff qualifications, turnover rates, daily schedules, and their policies on communication, sick children, and outdoor play. For local evaluation resources, start with the **Farmington Libraries**, which often have community bulletin boards and may host parenting groups. You can also join local Facebook groups like "Farmington Valley Moms" to get unfiltered parent reviews and recommendations. Finally, the **Connecticut Office of Early Childhood** website provides a checklist for choosing quality care that aligns with state standards.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Farmington: