The Best Daycare Centers in Trumbull, CT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Trumbull. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Trumbull
The Goddard School of Trumbull
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Trumbull offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their play-based curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and incorporates STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios to ensure personalized attention.
Daycare Services:
Trumbull Early Childhood Education Center
Trumbull Public Schools
Operated by Trumbull Public Schools, this center provides high-quality early childhood education with certified teachers and specialists. The program follows Connecticut's Early Learning and Development Standards with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy development, social-emotional learning, and school readiness. The center features inclusive classrooms, speech and occupational therapy services, and comprehensive parent involvement programs. Safety protocols include secured facilities, regular drills, and health screening procedures. The experienced staff includes master's level educators and certified early childhood specialists who provide individualized learning experiences.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Fairfield
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Located just minutes from Trumbull in neighboring Fairfield, Bright Horizons offers a World at Their Fingertips curriculum that combines emergent learning with structured academic preparation. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, nutritionally balanced meals prepared on-site, and extensive outdoor learning environments. Their highly qualified teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in continuous professional development. The program emphasizes project-based learning, character development, and STEAM education. Bright Horizons maintains excellent staff retention rates and strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family engagement events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Trumbull, CT
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Trumbull, CT?
In Trumbull, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $1,400 to $1,800 per month. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, averaging between $1,200 and $1,600 per month. These rates are generally in line with the Fairfield County average, which is among the highest in Connecticut. Home-based daycare options (licensed family childcare homes) can be more affordable, often ranging from $900 to $1,300 monthly. It's important to note that these are base rates; additional fees for registration, supplies, or early/late pickup are common. Financial assistance may be available through the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood's Care 4 Kids program for eligible families.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Trumbull is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All licensed childcare providers in Trumbull are regulated by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC). You can verify a program's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious compliance issues by using the "Look Up a Child Care Program" search tool on the OEC website. During an in-person tour, look for the current license posted, along with staff certifications in Pediatric First Aid/CPR. Ask about staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants) and observe if they are maintained. Check for cleanliness, safe outdoor play areas, and age-appropriate learning materials. Specifically in Trumbull, many quality programs also participate in the state's voluntary "Nurturing Early Learners" quality rating system. Don't hesitate to ask for references from current Trumbull parents.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Trumbull, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for infant and toddler spots at highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Trumbull, especially for programs affiliated with the town's highly-rated school district or those with strong reputations. For infant care, it is advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists during your first or early second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool openings, starting your search 9-12 months in advance is prudent. Some popular centers in town have waitlists that extend 12-18 months. It's a good strategy to get on multiple lists and to check in periodically. Also, consider exploring licensed family childcare homes in Trumbull neighborhoods, as they may have more immediate availability and shorter wait times.
What are the main types of childcare options available to parents in Trumbull, beyond large centers?
Trumbull offers a variety of childcare settings to fit different family needs. Beyond national or local daycare centers, options include: 1. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes:** Often run out of a provider's home in residential neighborhoods, offering smaller group sizes and a home-like environment. 2. **Preschools:** Many focus on ages 3-5 and often offer part-day or full-day programs with structured educational curricula. Several are housed in local churches and community centers. 3. **The Trumbull Early Childhood Education Center (TECEC):** This is a town-run integrated preschool program that serves both typically developing children and children with special needs. 4. **Nannies or In-Home Care:** A popular option in Fairfield County, often arranged through agencies or local networks. 5. **Before/After-School Care:** Provided by organizations like the Trumbull Parks & Recreation Department or the YMCA for school-age children.
Does the Town of Trumbull offer any public preschool or early childhood programs for residents?
Yes, the Town of Trumbull, through its Board of Education, operates the **Trumbull Early Childhood Education Center (TECEC)**. This is a nationally accredited, integrated preschool program for children ages 3-5. It serves both typically developing children (who pay tuition) and children with identified special needs (whose services are provided through the district's special education plan). The program follows the public school calendar and offers a blend of academic and social development. Spots for tuition-paying students are limited and typically filled by lottery. Additionally, the **Trumbull Parks and Recreation Department** often offers various preschool enrichment classes, camps, and before/after-school care programs at locations like the Twin Brooks Park facility.