The Best Daycare Centers in Kent, CT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Kent. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Kent
Kent Children's Center
Independent Non-Profit
Kent Children's Center is a highly-regarded non-profit early childhood education center serving the Kent community for over two decades. The center follows a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and hands-on learning. Their experienced teachers hold early childhood education credentials and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play spaces, and a nature-based learning environment that takes advantage of Kent's rural setting. The center is known for its strong community connections, family involvement opportunities, and commitment to providing quality care that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.
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The Children's Center of New Milford
Independent Non-Profit
Located just 15 minutes from Kent, The Children's Center of New Milford is a NAEYC-accredited facility with an exceptional reputation throughout Litchfield County. The center offers comprehensive early childhood programs from infancy through school age, featuring a research-based curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts. Their highly qualified teaching staff includes educators with bachelor's and master's degrees in early childhood education. The facility includes secure, age-specific playgrounds, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated spaces for motor skill development. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, safety protocols, and the genuine care shown by staff.
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Sherman School Early Childhood Program
Sherman School District
Sherman School's Early Childhood Program serves Kent and surrounding towns with a high-quality public school-based preschool experience. The program features a balanced approach combining structured academic preparation with play-based learning, following Connecticut's Early Learning and Development Standards. Certified early childhood teachers and specialists provide individualized instruction in literacy, mathematics, and social skills development. The program is particularly noted for its inclusive model that integrates typically developing children with those receiving special education services. The facility benefits from access to the elementary school's resources including library, gymnasium, and outdoor learning spaces, providing a smooth transition to kindergarten.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Kent, CT
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Kent, CT, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Kent, CT, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while preschool for a 3-5 year old typically costs between $900 and $1,300 per month. These costs reflect the area's rural nature and the higher operational expenses for smaller, often home-based programs. For financial assistance, Connecticut's Care 4 Kids program is the primary state-subsidized option for eligible families based on income. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth inquiring directly with providers like the Kent Center School's pre-K program or private in-home caregivers about potential flexibility.
How do I find and verify licensed childcare providers in Kent, CT?
The best resource is the State of Connecticut's Office of Early Childhood (OEC) online "Child Care Finder" tool. You can search specifically for licensed family child care homes, group child care homes, and child care centers in Kent (zip code 06757) and view their licensing status, capacity, and any history of compliance reports. All licensed providers in Connecticut must meet strict health, safety, and staff qualification standards. Given Kent's small size, many options are licensed family daycares operated out of a provider's home, which can offer a more intimate setting. Always verify the license is current by checking the OEC website or asking the provider directly for their license number.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Kent, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for the limited number of daycare slots in Kent, especially for infant care. Due to the town's small population and limited number of providers, high-quality programs often have limited capacity. It is strongly recommended to begin your search during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before your needed start date. For popular programs like the preschool at Kent Center School or well-regarded family child care homes, you may need to get on a list even earlier. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on multiple waitlists, and follow up periodically to check your status.
What are the main types of childcare settings available in Kent, CT?
Parents in Kent generally have three primary options. First, **Licensed Family Child Care Homes**: These are small, home-based settings (often caring for 6 children or fewer) and are the most common type in Kent's residential areas. Second, **Center-Based Preschools**: The most notable is the integrated pre-kindergarten program at the public **Kent Center School**, which serves 3- and 4-year-olds. There are also private preschool programs that may operate part-day. Third, **Nannies or In-Home Caregivers**: Given the rural setting, some families opt for a nanny or babysitter, often found through local networks or agencies serving Litchfield County. There are no large commercial daycare chains in Kent itself.
What should I look for during a daycare tour specific to a rural community like Kent?
When touring a daycare in Kent, pay special attention to factors influenced by the rural setting. **Safety & Accessibility**: Ask about their plan for emergencies, given potentially longer EMS response times. Check their outdoor play area for safety and inquire about protocols for wildlife (like ticks). **Enrichment**: Given the natural surroundings, look for programs that incorporate outdoor learning, nature walks, or visits to local spots like Kent Falls or the Appalachian Trail. **Community Connection**: A good provider will often integrate into the small-town community—ask about trips to the Kent Memorial Library or local farms. Finally, assess their **backup plans** for staff shortages, as substitute providers can be harder to find in a small town.