The Best Daycare Centers in Bear, DE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bear. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bear
Kiddie Academy of Bear
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Bear provides a comprehensive educational childcare program with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms with modern learning materials, and outdoor play areas. Highly qualified teachers maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and receive ongoing professional development. The academy emphasizes parent communication through daily reports and offers nutritious meals. Their approach balances structured learning with play-based activities to support whole-child development.
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The Goddard School of Bear
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Bear offers a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), which incorporates STEAM concepts, language arts, and social development. The facility features bright, well-equipped classrooms, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and comprehensive security systems. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and participate in continuous training. The school maintains an open-door policy for parents and provides regular progress updates. Their curriculum emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and preparing children for academic success.
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Bright Horizons at Newark
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
While located in nearby Newark, Bright Horizons serves families throughout the Bear area with their World at Their Fingertips® curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning, literacy development, and STEM exploration. The NAEYC-accredited center features purpose-built learning environments, secure facilities with keypad entry, and natural outdoor spaces. Highly educated teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices and maintain detailed portfolios tracking each child's progress. The center offers flexible scheduling options and emphasizes creating partnerships with families through regular communication and family events. Their approach focuses on developing confident, curious learners through play-based and project-based learning experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bear, DE
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Bear, Delaware, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Bear, Delaware, all childcare centers and family childcare homes must be licensed by the Delaware Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL). Key requirements include background checks for all staff, specific staff-to-child ratios based on age (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:10 for school-age), health and safety training, and regular facility inspections. To verify a provider's compliance and view their licensing history, including any violations, you can use the "Check a Child Care Provider" search tool on the Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families (DSCYF) website. It's highly recommended to check this public record before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Bear, DE, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In the Bear area, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Toddler care is slightly less, averaging $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and age of the facility. For financial assistance, Delaware offers the Purchase of Care (POC) program, which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income, employment, or school enrollment. You can apply through the Delaware ASSIST website. Additionally, some centers in Bear may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Bear, and what can I do to secure a spot for my infant?
Waitlists for infant rooms at reputable daycare centers in Bear can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer. Due to strict staff-to-infant ratios, spots are very limited. To improve your chances, start your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy. 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 Bear and nearby communities like Newark or Glasgow, which may have shorter wait times.
What are some key factors to consider when touring daycare facilities in Bear, specifically related to local amenities and safety?
When touring facilities in Bear, consider both universal and local factors. First, ensure the playgrounds are secure and age-appropriate, and ask about their protocols for severe weather common to Delaware, like thunderstorms or extreme heat. Inquire about their sick child policy and how they handle common illnesses. Given Bear's suburban layout, assess the drop-off/pick-up traffic flow for safety. Ask if they incorporate any local community resources, such as visits from the Bear Library or trips to local parks like Lums Pond State Park. Finally, observe the cleanliness and ask about their cleaning schedules, especially during cold and flu season.
Are there part-time or non-traditional hour childcare options available in Bear for parents with shift work or irregular schedules?
Finding part-time or non-traditional hour care (evenings, weekends, overnight) in Bear can be challenging, as most centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best options are typically licensed family childcare homes, which may offer more flexible hours, or seeking a private nanny or nanny share. You can search for registered family providers through the Delaware OCCL website. Additionally, some larger corporate centers near major employers in the area (like those near the I-95 corridor) may offer extended hours. For true shift work coverage, networking with other local parents on community forums or apps like Nextdoor can help find in-home providers who accommodate such schedules.