The Best Daycare Centers in Harrington, DE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harrington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harrington
Sunshine Early Learning Center
Sunshine Early Learning Center
Sunshine Early Learning Center offers a comprehensive educational program focusing on early childhood development through play-based learning and structured curriculum. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education credentials, maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios for individualized attention. Their facility includes secure indoor classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. The curriculum incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. Safety protocols include secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. They provide nutritious meals and snacks following USDA guidelines and offer extended hours to accommodate working families.
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Children's Place Learning Center
Children's Place Learning Centers
Children's Place Learning Center provides a nurturing environment with a research-based curriculum that balances academic preparation and social development. Their experienced teaching staff holds degrees in early childhood education and participates in ongoing professional development. The center features modern classrooms equipped with interactive technology, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and age-specific outdoor play spaces. Their educational approach includes Creative Curriculum components, hands-on learning activities, and regular developmental assessments. Safety features include electronic check-in/out systems, video monitoring, and strict hygiene protocols. The center emphasizes parent communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Milford Early Learning Center
Milford Early Learning Center
Milford Early Learning Center offers a well-established childcare program with a focus on school readiness and whole-child development. Their curriculum incorporates Montessori-inspired elements with traditional early childhood education practices. The center employs qualified teachers with specialized training in early literacy and numeracy development. Facilities include spacious classrooms organized into learning centers, a large motor skills development area, and secure outdoor playgrounds with natural elements. Their program includes music and movement activities, art exploration, and early science discovery. The center maintains excellent staff retention rates and strong community partnerships. Safety measures include comprehensive emergency preparedness plans and regular facility maintenance inspections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harrington, DE
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Harrington, DE?
In Harrington and the surrounding Kent County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $175 to $225 per week for an infant or toddler. In-home family childcare providers may offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from $140 to $190 per week. These costs are generally lower than the state average for Delaware, reflecting the more rural nature of Harrington. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Additionally, Delaware offers the Purchase of Care (POC) subsidy program for eligible families to help offset these costs.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Harrington is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All childcare providers in Delaware, including those in Harrington, must be licensed by the Delaware Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history online through the OCCL's "Child Care Search" tool on the Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families (DSCYF) website. This public database shows the provider's license status, capacity, ages served, and any regulatory non-compliance findings from recent inspections. You can also call the OCCL's Kent County office for assistance. Always visit a potential daycare and ask to see their current license certificate, which should be posted visibly.
Are there many daycare options with immediate openings in Harrington, or should I expect to join a waitlist?
Due to Harrington's smaller size and limited number of providers, immediate openings for infants and toddlers are relatively rare. It is common for parents to encounter waitlists, especially for the most sought-after centers and highly recommended in-home providers. For preschool-aged children, availability may be better. We recommend starting your search at least 3-6 months before you need care. To increase your chances, contact multiple providers, including those in nearby towns like Milford or Felton. Some facilities may have shorter waitlists for part-time care. Being flexible with your start date can also help.
What are some local resources in Harrington to help me find and evaluate childcare options?
A key local resource is the **Delaware Stars for Early Success** program, which rates and supports quality improvement in early childhood programs. You can search for Harrington providers with Star ratings online. Additionally, the **Kent County Community Resource Center** can provide referrals and information. For hands-on help, consider contacting the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) service** through the United Way of Delaware, which offers free, personalized referrals and guidance on choosing quality care. Attending local community events at the Harrington Public Library or Harrington Parks & Recreation can also provide word-of-mouth recommendations from other parents.
Do any daycare centers or preschools in Harrington offer specialized programs or align with local school districts?
Several providers in Harrington offer programs that prepare children for the Lake Forest School District, which serves the area. Some centers use structured curricula aligned with Delaware's early learning standards. You may find programs with a focus on school readiness, kindergarten prep, and even basic Spanish language exposure. Given Harrington's agricultural community, some providers incorporate nature and garden-based learning. For more specialized needs, such as care for children with developmental delays, resources are more limited locally, and parents often look to larger centers in Dover or Milford. Always inquire about a provider's daily schedule and educational philosophy to see if it aligns with your goals.