The Best Daycare Centers in Preston, CT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Preston. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Preston
Preston Ridge Preschool
Independent
Preston Ridge Preschool is a highly-regarded local institution offering comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach. The center features certified early childhood educators with advanced degrees and maintains exceptionally low student-teacher ratios. Their curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy readiness, and hands-on learning experiences. The facility includes modern classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and specialized learning centers. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and individualized attention each child receives. The program focuses on school readiness while maintaining a warm, family-oriented atmosphere that makes children feel secure and engaged.
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The Children's Tree Montessori School
Independent
Located approximately 25 minutes from Preston, The Children's Tree Montessori School serves families throughout southeastern Connecticut with authentic Montessori education. The school features AMI-certified teachers and comprehensive programs from infancy through elementary years. Their curriculum emphasizes self-directed learning, practical life skills, and individualized academic progression. The facility includes beautifully prepared Montessori classrooms, natural outdoor environments, and specialized learning materials. Safety protocols are exceptional with secure entry systems and comprehensive staff training. Parents particularly appreciate the school's commitment to developing independence, critical thinking skills, and respect for others in a carefully prepared environment.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Norwich
KinderCare Education
This KinderCare location in nearby Norwich serves Preston families with comprehensive early childhood programs and flexible scheduling options. The center employs state-qualified teachers with ongoing professional development in early childhood education. Their research-based curriculum focuses on literacy, math, science, and social skills development through structured learning centers and hands-on activities. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure playgrounds, and dedicated infant care areas with separate sleeping and play spaces. Safety is prioritized with keypad entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The center offers nutritious meals and snacks, extended hours, and consistent communication through daily reports and parent-teacher conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Preston, CT
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Preston, CT, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Preston, CT, the cost for full-time daycare or preschool typically ranges from $225 to $350 per week, depending on the child's age (infant care is at the higher end), the type of facility (home-based vs. center-based), and the specific program offerings. This is generally in line with regional averages for New London County. 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 providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking with the Preston Parks and Recreation Department for any seasonal or part-time preschool programs that might be more budget-friendly.
How do I verify that a daycare or childcare provider in Preston is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All licensed childcare providers in Connecticut, including those in Preston, are regulated by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC). You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the "Look Up a Child Care Program" search tool on the OEC website. During an in-person tour in Preston, ask to see the current license, observe staff-to-child ratios, check for safety features like secured exits and outlet covers, and inquire about staff qualifications and ongoing training. Notice if the environment is clean, engaging, and if children appear happily occupied. Don't hesitate to ask for references from other Preston parents.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Preston, and when should I start looking for infant care?
Due to limited capacity, especially for infants and toddlers, waitlists are common at many licensed daycare centers and highly-regarded home-based providers in and around Preston. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. Some popular centers may have waitlists exceeding a year. Be proactive by contacting multiple providers, including those in neighboring towns like Norwich or Ledyard, to increase your options. Getting on a waitlist often requires a non-refundable deposit.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Preston, CT?
Preston offers a mix of childcare settings, though options are more limited than in larger cities. The most common types are licensed family childcare homes, which operate in a provider's residence and often have a smaller, family-like environment. There are also a few licensed childcare centers, which may be standalone businesses or affiliated with local organizations. Given Preston's rural character, formal preschool programs are often integrated into these daycare settings or offered through the town's Parks and Recreation Department. For school-age care, Preston typically relies on the Preston Public Schools district for before- and after-school programs at the elementary school.
What are the state-mandated staff-to-child ratios for daycare in Connecticut, and how do they impact care in Preston?
Connecticut law sets strict maximum staff-to-child ratios to ensure safety and quality. For centers: 1:4 for infants (6 weeks-12 months), 1:4 for toddlers (12-24 months), 1:6 for two-year-olds, 1:10 for three-year-olds, and 1:12 for four- and five-year-olds. For family childcare homes, the ratio is 1:6 with no more than two children under age two, unless they are siblings. These ratios directly impact availability and cost in Preston. Smaller home-based providers may operate at full capacity quickly due to these limits, which contributes to waitlists. When evaluating a provider, confirm they are adhering to these ratios, as it ensures your child will receive adequate attention and supervision.