The Best Daycare Centers in Cheswold, DE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cheswold. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cheswold
The Goddard School of Dover
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Dover offers a premier early childhood education program with FLEX Learning Program that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development with highly qualified teachers who hold degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. They maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and provide daily communication with parents through their proprietary app. The school is known for its comprehensive safety protocols, nutritious meal programs, and extensive enrichment activities including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure.
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Kiddie Academy of Dover
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Dover provides comprehensive educational childcare through their Life Essentials curriculum that emphasizes character development, academic readiness, and social skills. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive camera monitoring. Their degreed teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices with emphasis on literacy, mathematics, and science exploration. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and preschool classrooms with interactive technology. Parents appreciate the consistent communication, detailed progress reports, and the center's commitment to creating a nurturing environment that supports each child's individual development.
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Dover Day Care Center
Independent Non-Profit
Dover Day Care Center is a respected non-profit childcare facility serving the Central Delaware community with a focus on inclusive, developmentally appropriate care. Their curriculum integrates Creative Curriculum with Delaware Early Learning Foundations, providing structured learning experiences while encouraging child-led exploration. The center maintains small class sizes with certified early childhood educators and assistants. Safety is prioritized through secure facilities, comprehensive background checks, and regular emergency drills. The program emphasizes social-emotional development, early literacy, and kindergarten readiness while offering flexible scheduling options for working families. Their long-standing reputation in the community and commitment to affordable quality care make them a trusted choice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cheswold, DE
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Cheswold, Delaware, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Cheswold, all childcare centers and family childcare homes must be licensed by the Delaware Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL), which operates under the Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families (DSCYF). Licensing covers staff-to-child ratios, background checks, health and safety standards, staff qualifications, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's compliance and view their licensing history, including any non-compliance reports, you can use the "Check a Child Care Provider" search tool on the DSCYF website. It's also recommended to visit the facility in person and ask to see their current license, which must be posted.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Cheswold, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In the Cheswold area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Toddler care is slightly less, often between $900 and $1,200 per month. Family childcare homes may offer lower rates. For financial assistance, Delaware's Purchase of Care (POC) program helps eligible low-income families pay for childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (e.g., employment, education). You can apply through the Delaware ASSIST website or contact the Division of Social Services. Some local centers may also offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
Are there many daycare centers with immediate openings in Cheswold, or should I expect to join a waitlist?
Due to high demand and limited providers in smaller communities like Cheswold, it is common to encounter waitlists, especially for infant care and at highly-rated centers. Many families look to nearby towns like Dover for more options, which can also have waitlists. It is strongly advised to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care. Contact providers directly to ask about current availability and waitlist procedures. Some smaller family childcare homes may have more immediate openings. Persistence and flexibility with your start date are key.
What resources are available in Cheswold to help me find and evaluate local childcare options?
The primary resource is the Delaware Stars for Early Success program and its online search tool. Delaware Stars rates licensed programs on a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being the highest) based on quality standards. You can filter searches for programs in the 19936 (Cheswold) area and see their quality ratings. Additionally, you can contact the Kent County Child Care Resource and Referral service for personalized assistance. Local parenting groups on social media (e.g., Facebook groups for Cheswold/Dover parents) are also valuable for getting firsthand recommendations and reviews from other families.
What are some key questions to ask a potential daycare provider in Cheswold during a tour, given local considerations?
Beyond general questions, focus on local and logistical factors. Ask about their emergency preparedness for local issues (e.g., severe weather, given Delaware's coastal climate). Inquire about their policy for Delaware's mandatory health screenings and immunizations. Ask how they handle transportation if they participate in local pre-K collaborations with the Caesar Rodney School District. Discuss their outdoor play policy given Delaware's variable weather. Finally, confirm their staff's ongoing training requirements as mandated by the OCCL, including First Aid/CPR and Delaware's early learning standards. This will give you insight into their commitment to quality and safety within the state's framework.