The Best Daycare Centers in Clermont, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Clermont. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Clermont
Primrose School of Clermont
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Clermont operates as part of the nationally recognized Primrose Schools network, offering a balanced learning approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The school features a comprehensive Balanced Learning® curriculum that integrates character development, literacy, math, science, and social studies. Their dedicated early childhood educators hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor learning environments. What sets this center apart is their exclusive Harmony & Heart® music program and commitment to developing independence, creativity, and critical thinking skills in young children.
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The Learning Experience - Clermont
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Clermont provides a comprehensive early education program with a focus on academic preparation and social development. Their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum incorporates phonics, foreign language, manners, and fitness. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including coded entry and surveillance cameras. Highly qualified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices in bright, modern classrooms designed to stimulate learning. The facility includes multiple playgrounds separated by age groups and offers enrichment programs like soccer, yoga, and dance. Parents particularly appreciate the consistent communication through their mobile app and the center's focus on preparing children for kindergarten success.
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Kiddie Academy of Clermont
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Clermont offers an educational child care approach through their Life Essentials® curriculum, which focuses on character education, STEM learning, and literacy development. The academy employs degreed early childhood educators who create hands-on learning experiences in well-equipped classrooms. Their security measures include electronic keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The facility features age-specific learning centers, computer labs, and outdoor play areas designed for different developmental stages. The center stands out for their family communication system that provides daily reports and photos, as well as their commitment to serving nutritious meals that meet USDA guidelines. Their program emphasizes school readiness while nurturing each child's individual interests and abilities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Clermont, FL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Clermont, FL?
In Clermont, the cost of full-time childcare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants and toddlers, you can expect to pay between $180 to $250 per week at a licensed daycare center. Preschool programs for children ages 3-5 typically range from $150 to $220 per week. In-home family daycare providers may offer slightly lower rates, around $140 to $190 per week. These costs are generally in line with the Lake County average but can be higher at centers with specialized curricula or extended hours. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and educational materials.
How do I verify a daycare is properly licensed and what are Florida's key regulations for Clermont providers?
All childcare facilities in Clermont must be licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can verify a provider's license, view inspection reports, and check for any disciplinary actions using the DCF's official Child Care Facility Search tool online. Key state regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:11 for 4-year-olds), mandatory background screenings for all employees, and annual training in topics like CPR and safe sleep practices. Local providers are also subject to health and fire department inspections. Always look for the license displayed at the facility and don't hesitate to ask the director for their license number.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Clermont, and how far in advance should I apply?
Due to Clermont's growing population, waitlists for infant and toddler rooms at highly-rated centers are common and can be several months long. For infant care, it is advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as your second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler and preschool spots, applying 3-6 months in advance is a safe bet. Some centers, especially those affiliated with churches or in high-demand areas like the Clermont Waterfront, may have longer waits. Always ask about the waitlist policy, including any non-refundable deposit required to hold a spot.
What are some local resources for finding and comparing childcare options in Clermont?
Parents in Clermont have several valuable local resources. The **Early Learning Coalition of Lake County** is a primary resource; they administer the School Readiness and VPK (Voluntary Prekindergarten) funding and maintain a referral list of participating providers. You can also use the statewide **Child Care Resource & Referral Network** website to search by zip code. For community insights, the "Clermont Moms" Facebook group is an active forum where parents share firsthand experiences and recommendations. Additionally, the City of Clermont Parks & Recreation Department offers after-school care and seasonal camps, which can be a good supplement to traditional daycare.
What is the Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program and how do I enroll my 4-year-old in a Clermont provider?
Florida's VPK program provides free, part-time prekindergarten education for all 4-year-olds who are Florida residents. In Clermont, many licensed daycare centers, private preschools, and public elementary schools offer VPK programs. To enroll, you must first apply for a Certificate of Eligibility from the Early Learning Coalition of Lake County, which can be done online. Once you have the certificate, you can register directly with a participating provider. The school-year program is 540 instructional hours, and a summer program option is also available. It's a great way to prepare your child for kindergarten at no cost, though you may need to pay for extended "wrap-around" care if you need full-day coverage.