The Best Daycare Centers in Ellenton, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ellenton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ellenton
The Goddard School of Ellenton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Ellenton offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. The center features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secure keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development with daily communication to parents through the Goddard Mobile App. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and specialized learning centers for different developmental stages.
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Primrose School of Lakewood Ranch
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Lakewood Ranch provides Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, and hands-on learning experiences. The facility features secure entry systems, live streaming for parent viewing, and comprehensive health and safety protocols. Their staff includes degreed early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. The school offers specialized programs in music, art, and physical education, along with nutritious meals prepared on-site in their commercial kitchen.
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The Learning Experience - Parrish
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Parrish offers their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, mathematics, and science with character development through their philanthropy-based curriculum. The center features secure entry systems, CCTV monitoring, and strict health protocols. Their highly qualified teaching staff maintains low student-teacher ratios and receives ongoing training in early childhood development. The facility includes modern classrooms, indoor and outdoor play areas, and specialized learning zones for different age groups, with emphasis on school readiness and social skills development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ellenton, FL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Ellenton, Florida?
In Ellenton, 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 $175 to $250 per week at licensed daycare centers. Preschool programs for children aged 3-5 are generally slightly lower, ranging from $150 to $220 per week. Home-based family childcare providers in the area may offer more competitive rates, often between $130 to $190 per week. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's also worth exploring if you qualify for Florida's School Readiness Program, which provides financial assistance to eligible families in Manatee County to help offset these expenses.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare in Ellenton?
All childcare facilities in Ellenton must be licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can verify a provider's license and view their full compliance history, including any past violations, by using the "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the Florida DCF website. Simply enter the provider's name or location. We recommend looking for facilities with an "Active" license status and reviewing their last several inspection reports. You can also contact the local DCF Child Care Licensing Office for the Suncoast Region, which oversees Manatee County, for additional information. Always visit a facility in person and ask the director to discuss any violations noted in their reports.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Ellenton, and how can I secure a spot?
Due to growing demand, especially for infant care, many reputable daycare centers in Ellenton do have waitlists, which can range from a few months to over a year. It's advisable to begin your search and get on lists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to join? How often is the list updated? What is the typical wait time for your child's age group? To increase your chances, consider applying to multiple centers and exploring licensed family childcare homes, which may have more immediate availability. Some centers also give priority to siblings of current enrollees or employees of local partner businesses.
What are some of the unique local programs or features offered by Ellenton daycares?
Many childcare providers in Ellenton incorporate local themes and resources into their programs. Given the city's proximity to the Manatee River and the Gulf Coast, some centers include nature-based learning about local wildlife, like manatees and coastal birds. Others may take advantage of nearby attractions for field trips, such as the Ellenton Premium Outlets (for community walks) or the nearby Bishop Museum of Science and Nature in Bradenton. Additionally, with major employers like Tropicana and the nearby Port Manatee in the area, some centers may offer extended or flexible hours to accommodate shift workers in these industries. It's a good idea to ask providers about their community connections and how they integrate Ellenton's environment into daily activities.
What emergency preparedness plans should I look for in an Ellenton childcare facility?
Given Florida's weather, particularly the hurricane season from June to November, it's crucial to choose a daycare with a robust emergency plan. A reputable facility in Ellenton should have a clear, written plan for hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and lockdowns. Ask specifically about their evacuation and shelter-in-place procedures, including the location of their designated storm shelter. They should also have protocols for communication with parents during an emergency, such as a phone tree or text alert system. Furthermore, ensure all staff are trained in pediatric first aid and CPR, and that the facility conducts regular safety drills. You can ask to see their Emergency Preparedness Plan, which is a requirement for Florida DCF licensing.