The Best Daycare Centers in Woodside, DE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Woodside. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Woodside
The Goddard School of Dover
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Dover offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Features state-licensed teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secure keypad entry systems, live streaming cameras for parent viewing, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Curriculum includes STEAM learning, sign language for infants, and character development programs. Serves families throughout Kent County including Woodside with flexible scheduling options and nutritious meal programs.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Dover
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Dover provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum focused on character education, technology integration, and hands-on learning. Features highly qualified teachers with ongoing professional development, secure facility with electronic check-in systems, and modern learning environments. Offers age-appropriate developmental programs including literacy enhancement, math readiness, and social skills development. Serves Woodside and surrounding communities with extended hours and enrichment programs in music and movement.
Daycare Services:
Children's Place at Dover
Children's Place Learning Centers
Children's Place at Dover is a locally-owned childcare center serving Kent County families since 2006 with NAEYC-accredited programs. Features low student-teacher ratios, degreed early childhood educators, and comprehensive security systems including biometric entry. Curriculum emphasizes play-based learning, literacy development, and school readiness skills. Facilities include age-segregated playgrounds, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated art/music spaces. Known for strong parent communication through daily reports and parent portal access, serving Woodside families with reliable transportation options.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Woodside, DE
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Woodside, Delaware, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Woodside, Delaware, all childcare facilities 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 ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. For a family childcare home, the provider must complete background checks, pre-service training, and a home inspection. Larger centers have additional facility requirements. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any non-compliance history by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the DSCYF website. It's highly recommended to cross-reference this official state data when evaluating options in the Woodside area.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Woodside, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Woodside area, average costs for full-time infant daycare typically range from $1,100 to $1,400 per month at licensed centers, while registered family childcare homes may range from $800 to $1,100 per month. These rates are influenced by factors like program structure, staff credentials, and included amenities. For financial assistance, Delaware's Purchase of Care (POC) program is the primary subsidy for eligible families, helping low- and moderate-income working parents or those in approved training/education. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. Applications are processed through the Delaware Division of Social Services. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Woodside, and what can I do to secure a spot?
For sought-after daycare centers and highly-rated family providers in the Woodside community, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long, or even longer. To improve your chances, start your search and get on lists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before your needed start date. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on their lists (some may charge a small fee), and follow up politely every few months to confirm your spot. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family homes in surrounding Kent County areas, as they may have more immediate availability and offer a similar quality of care.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Woodside, DE?
Woodside offers a mix of childcare settings to fit different family needs. The most common types are: 1. **Licensed Childcare Centers:** These are larger facilities, often with structured curricula, multiple classrooms, and more staff. Several operate in or near Woodside, serving various age groups. 2. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes:** These are smaller, home-based programs run by a registered provider, offering a more intimate, family-like environment, often with mixed-age groups. 3. **Preschools:** Many local churches and community organizations offer part-day preschool programs for children ages 3-5, which focus on school readiness. Given Woodside's location, some parents also commute to nearby towns like Dover or Smyrna for additional center options. The Delaware Stars quality rating system can help you compare the quality across these different setting types.
Are there any unique local resources or networks in Woodside to help parents find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, Delaware offers several key resources. First, the **Delaware Stars for Early Success** program is a voluntary quality rating system. Providers with higher Star ratings meet enhanced standards for learning environments and staff education. You can search for Star-rated programs in your zip code. Second, the **Kent County Community Resource Guide**, often available through the Woodside Public Library or local pediatricians' offices, lists local services including childcare. Finally, connecting with local parent groups on social media (e.g., Facebook groups for "Woodside, DE Parents" or "Kent County Moms") can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations and real-time insights into provider reputations and openings that may not be widely advertised.