The Best Daycare Centers in Dania, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Dania. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Dania
The Learning Experience - Dania Beach
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Dania Beach is a highly-rated early education center featuring their proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum that combines academic learning with play-based activities. The center offers state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive camera monitoring. Certified early childhood educators provide age-appropriate programs from infant care through pre-K, with specialized enrichment programs in phonics, manners, and yoga. The facility includes modern classrooms, indoor play areas, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean environment, and strong educational foundation provided to children.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Dania Beach
Kiddie Academy
Kiddie Academy of Dania Beach operates with a Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, social skills, and academic readiness. The center maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators. Their safety protocols include secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The facility features age-specific learning environments, computer learning stations for older children, and outdoor play spaces. The academy provides nutritious meals and snacks through their included meal program. Parents highlight the structured learning environment, excellent communication, and the center's focus on holistic child development.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Dania Pointe
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Dania Pointe offers a research-based World at Their Fingertips curriculum that emphasizes STEAM learning, literacy development, and social-emotional growth. The center features highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education and ongoing professional development. Their secure facility includes biometric entry systems, comprehensive health and safety protocols, and dedicated age-appropriate learning spaces. The curriculum incorporates emergent learning approaches where children's interests guide project-based activities. The center serves corporate employees and community families with flexible scheduling options. Parents consistently note the exceptional teacher quality, innovative learning environment, and strong focus on individual child development.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Dania, FL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool for an infant or toddler in Dania, Florida?
In Dania, Florida, the cost of childcare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (under 1 year), full-time care typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. For toddlers (1-3 years), you can expect to pay between $900 and $1,200 per month. Preschool programs for 3-5 year-olds generally cost $800 to $1,100 monthly. These rates are influenced by factors such as the center's accreditation (like NAEYC), staff-to-child ratios, curriculum offerings, and whether meals are included. Costs in Dania are slightly above the Florida state average due to its location in the South Florida metro area. It's important to ask about any registration fees, which can be $100-$300, and if there are discounts for siblings or prepayment.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare center in Dania?
All childcare facilities in Dania must be licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can verify a center's license and view its compliance history online through the DCF Child Care Facility Search tool. Simply enter the provider's name or location. This report will show the license status, capacity, any serious violations (like those related to supervision, safety, or health), and the dates of recent inspections. We recommend looking for centers with a "Gold Seal Quality Care" designation, a voluntary state accreditation that indicates higher standards. Additionally, you can contact the local DCF Child Care Licensing Office for the Southeast Region for specific questions. Always visit a center in person and ask to see their current license certificate.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Dania, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for high-quality and infant-care spots in Dania, especially for centers near major employment hubs like the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport area and the Dania Beach Pointe. For infant rooms, it is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists at least 6 to 9 months before your needed start date. For toddler and preschool programs, 3 to 6 months is recommended. Some popular centers may have waitlists exceeding a year. When touring facilities, always ask about their specific waitlist process: if there's a fee to join, how often they update you, and if they offer priority for siblings or employees of local businesses. Exploring smaller licensed family childcare homes can be a good alternative with potentially shorter waits.
What are some local resources or programs in Dania that can help with childcare costs?
Several state and local programs can provide financial assistance to eligible families in Dania. The primary resource is the School Readiness Program, administered by the Early Learning Coalition of Broward County. This program offers subsidized childcare for working families and those in education or training, with fees based on a sliding scale. You can apply online or through their Fort Lauderdale office. Additionally, all Florida families are eligible for the Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program, which provides free part-time education for 4-year-olds at many daycare centers and schools. For federal assistance, you may inquire about the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF). We recommend contacting the Early Learning Coalition of Broward County directly for the most current eligibility requirements and application guidance.
Given Dania's coastal location and weather, what safety protocols should I expect from daycare centers regarding hurricanes and outdoor play?
Due to Dania's proximity to the coast, licensed childcare centers are required by Florida DCF regulations to have a written emergency preparedness plan for disasters, including hurricanes. You should expect centers to have clear procedures for evacuation (if necessary), sheltering in place, communication with parents, and reunification. Ask to see this plan during your tour. For daily outdoor play, centers should have shaded areas to protect from the strong Florida sun, enforce sunscreen application (with parental permission), and ensure children stay hydrated. During summer months or heat advisories, expect modified outdoor schedules to avoid peak heat. A quality center will also have fencing and secure playgrounds, and will closely supervise all water play activities, which are common in the area.