The Best Daycare Centers in Odessa, DE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Odessa. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Odessa
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Bear serves the Odessa area with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, literacy development, and character education. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms with hands-on learning centers. What sets this center apart is their individualized approach to learning with daily communication to parents through their proprietary mobile app and strong emphasis on developing critical thinking skills from infancy through kindergarten.
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Kiddie Academy of Bear
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Bear provides educational childcare to the Odessa region with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and school readiness. The academy emphasizes health and safety with secured facilities, rigorous cleaning protocols, and comprehensive staff training. Their program includes technology integration, Spanish language exposure, and structured physical activities. Teachers are required to have early childhood education credentials and participate in continuous professional development. The center stands out for their community connections program that brings local resources into the classroom and their commitment to developing social skills through purposeful play and group activities.
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The Learning Experience - Bear
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Bear serves Odessa families with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates early literacy, mathematics, and social skills development. Their unique programs include philanthropy curriculum that teaches children the importance of giving back, and enrichment programs in yoga, music, and manners. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, customized learning environments, and outdoor play spaces designed for different age groups. What makes this center exceptional is their focus on developing communication skills through their early phonics program and their structured approach to preparing children for kindergarten with comprehensive assessment tracking and individualized learning plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Odessa, DE
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Odessa, DE, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Odessa, Delaware, all childcare centers and family childcare homes must be licensed by the Delaware Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL). Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. For centers, staff must undergo background checks, and the director must have specific education and experience. You can verify a facility's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the "Check a Child Care Provider" search tool on the Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families (DSCYF) website. It's a critical first step for any parent in the Odessa area to ensure they are considering a legally operating and regulated program.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Odessa, DE?
The cost of childcare in Odessa and the surrounding New Castle County area varies by the child's age and the type of program. For a licensed childcare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Toddler care is slightly less, often between $1,000 and $1,400 per month. Family childcare homes may offer more affordable rates, sometimes $50-$200 less per month. Costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that Delaware offers financial assistance through the Delaware Purchase of Care (POC) program for eligible families, which can significantly offset these costs.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Odessa, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, many quality daycare centers in and around Odessa do maintain waitlists. It is highly recommended that parents begin their search and tour facilities at least 6 to 12 months before their needed start date. For infant care, starting your search during pregnancy is not uncommon. When contacting centers, ask directly about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot, and how often the list is updated. Exploring options in nearby towns like Townsend or Middletown can also increase your chances of finding an opening sooner.
What types of childcare options are available specifically in Odessa, given it's a smaller town?
While Odessa itself is a historic small town, parents have several childcare options. These include licensed family childcare homes operated within a resident's home, which are common in residential areas and offer a smaller, home-like setting. For center-based care, families often look to nearby larger communities. Many parents in Odessa commute to centers in Middletown, Townsend, or even southern Wilmington, which are a short drive away and offer a wider selection of preschools, Montessori programs, and corporate childcare chains. Additionally, part-time preschool programs for children ages 3-5 are often available at local churches or community organizations.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare facility in the Odessa area?
When touring a daycare in Odessa or the surrounding region, go beyond the basics. First, observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment (secured doors, covered outlets, safe playground equipment). Notice how staff interact with children—are they engaged and responsive? Ask about their staff turnover rate; consistency is key. Inquire about their curriculum and how they communicate daily updates (many use apps like Brightwheel or Tadpoles). Given Delaware's weather, ask about their policy for outdoor play and indoor physical activity. Finally, ask for references from current parents and trust your gut feeling about the overall atmosphere and whether it feels like a good fit for your child.