The Best Daycare Centers in Delmar, DE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Delmar. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Delmar
KinderCare Learning Center of Salisbury
KinderCare Education
KinderCare of Salisbury provides a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math readiness, and social-emotional development. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, state-certified educators with ongoing professional development, and secure facilities including keypad entry and CCTV monitoring. Parents praise the consistent communication through daily reports and a dedicated app for tracking developmental milestones. The center offers nutritious meals and snacks through their healthy eating program, along with ample indoor and outdoor play spaces designed for age-appropriate activities. Their strong safety record and focus on individualized learning make them a top choice for families in the Delmar area.
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The Goddard School of Salisbury
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Salisbury utilizes their proprietary F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that integrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities into daily lessons. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Safety is prioritized with secured entrances, regular drills, and hygienic protocols. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, character development, and preparation for kindergarten, with regular parent-teacher conferences and portfolio assessments. The school's modern facilities include age-specific classrooms, interactive whiteboards, and safe outdoor playgrounds, contributing to high parent satisfaction and strong developmental outcomes.
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Kiddie Academy of Salisbury
Kiddie Academy International
Kiddie Academy of Salisbury implements the Life Essentials® curriculum, which balances academic readiness with character education and physical development. The center features highly qualified teachers with CPR and first aid certification, and low student-to-teacher ratios to ensure personalized attention. Safety measures include electronic check-in/out systems, monitored play areas, and strict cleanliness standards. The academy offers technology-enhanced learning activities, nutritious meal plans, and flexible scheduling options. Parents value the strong communication through daily updates and the focus on social skills and independence. The inclusive environment and community-focused events make it a trusted choice for childcare in the Delmar region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Delmar, DE
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Delmar, Delaware, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Delaware, all childcare providers caring for four or more children must be licensed by the Delaware Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL). This includes family child care homes and child care centers. Licensing ensures facilities meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), child-to-staff ratios, and program curriculum. To verify a provider in Delmar is licensed and view their compliance history, 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 also advisable to visit the facility in person and ask to see their current license.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Delmar, DE, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In the Delmar area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $800 to $1,100 per month. Toddler care is slightly less, often between $700 and $950 per month. Family child care homes may offer lower rates. These costs are generally lower than in northern Delaware cities but are a significant household expense. Financial assistance is available through the Delaware Purchase of Care (POC) program, which helps eligible low- and moderate-income families pay for childcare. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (e.g., employment, education). You can apply through the Delaware ASSIST website or your local Division of Social Services office.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Delmar, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Delmar, waitlists for infant spots at licensed centers can be substantial, often ranging from 6 to 12 months. For toddler and preschool rooms, waitlists may be shorter, around 3 to 6 months. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before their needed start date. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process, including any fees to hold a spot and how often you should check in to maintain your position.
Are there part-time or flexible childcare options available in Delmar, especially for parents with non-traditional work hours?
Finding part-time or flexible-hour care in Delmar can be challenging, as most centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule and require full-time enrollment to guarantee a spot. Your best options for flexibility are often licensed family child care homes, which may offer more customizable part-week schedules or accommodate shift work. Some centers might offer part-time preschool programs for children ages 3-5. For occasional or emergency care, resources are extremely limited locally, so networking with other parents for babysitter recommendations or exploring in-home nanny shares may be necessary.
What resources are available in Delmar to help me evaluate and choose a quality childcare program?
Beyond checking state licensing, Delaware offers several local resources. First, you can contact the **Delaware Stars for Early Success** program. Participating programs are rated on a scale of 1 to 5 Stars based on quality standards. A higher Star rating indicates a higher quality program. You can search for rated programs in the 19940 area on their website. Second, the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency** for Sussex County, often accessed through DSCYF, can provide free personalized referrals and guidance. Finally, connecting with local parent groups on social media or through community centers like the Delmar Public Library can provide valuable firsthand recommendations and insights.