The Best Daycare Centers in Everglades City, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Everglades City. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Everglades City
The Learning Experience - Naples
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Naples provides comprehensive early childhood education with a proprietary curriculum that focuses on academic, physical, and social development. Their L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum incorporates technology, literacy, and STEM activities. The center features modern security systems including keypad entry, secured classrooms, and comprehensive staff background checks. Certified teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities with low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes interactive learning centers, outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated spaces for each age group. Parents appreciate the regular communication through their mobile app and the focus on preparing children for kindergarten readiness.
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Montessori of Naples
Montessori of Naples
Montessori of Naples offers authentic Montessori education in a carefully prepared environment that fosters independence and love of learning. Their AMI-certified teachers guide children through hands-on learning with specialized Montessori materials. The curriculum emphasizes practical life skills, sensorial development, language, mathematics, and cultural studies. The facility features beautiful, child-centered classrooms, outdoor learning environments, and gardens. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive staff training, and health screening procedures. The center is known for its peaceful atmosphere and strong community feel, with parents consistently praising the individualized attention and the development of self-confidence in children.
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Little Bear Learning Center
Little Bear Learning Center
Little Bear Learning Center provides a nurturing environment with a play-based learning approach that balances structured activities with creative exploration. Their curriculum focuses on developing social-emotional skills, early literacy, and cognitive development through hands-on experiences. The center features age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor play areas with natural elements, and dedicated spaces for art, music, and movement. All teachers are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development. The center maintains strict safety protocols including secured access, regular safety drills, and comprehensive cleaning procedures. Parents particularly appreciate the warm, family-like atmosphere and the center's focus on character development and community values.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Everglades City, FL
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Everglades City, and how do I find them?
In Everglades City, due to its small, rural nature, licensed childcare options are primarily limited to family daycare homes and potentially small private preschools. There are no large commercial daycare centers. Family daycare homes are licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) to care for a small number of children in a residential setting, often providing a more personalized, home-like environment. To find licensed providers, your best resource is the Florida DCF Child Care Facility Search tool online, where you can filter by zip code (34139). Additionally, contacting the local Collier County Early Learning Coalition office can provide referrals and information on state-funded assistance programs like School Readiness, which may have partnerships with local providers.
Are waitlists common for childcare in Everglades City, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common and can be lengthy due to the extremely limited number of providers in Everglades City. It is not unusual for there to be only a handful of licensed family daycare homes serving the entire community. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before they need care. When contacting a provider, ask immediately about their current waitlist status, estimated timeline, and any deposit required to hold a spot. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances. Given the scarcity, many families in the area also rely on informal networks of trusted neighbors or relatives for backup care.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Everglades City, and is financial assistance available?
While specific costs can vary by provider, full-time care at a licensed family daycare home in Everglades City typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week per child. This is generally lower than urban areas like Naples but must be considered relative to local incomes. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through Florida's School Readiness Program, administered locally by the Collier County Early Learning Coalition. This program uses a sliding fee scale based on family income, household size, and work/school requirements. You must apply directly through the Coalition, and they will provide a list of participating providers in or near Everglades City. Some providers may also offer private sibling discounts.
How does the seasonal tourism and hurricane season impact childcare availability and operations in Everglades City?
Everglades City's economy is heavily influenced by seasonal tourism (especially in winter) and is vulnerable to hurricanes, both of which significantly impact childcare. During the peak tourist season (roughly November to April), some providers may have reduced availability if they or their family members work in the tourism industry. More critically, all licensed providers are required to have a DCF-approved emergency preparedness plan for hurricanes. This includes evacuation and sheltering protocols. Parents must understand their provider's specific plan, including closure policies, relocation sites, and how communication will be maintained. It's essential to have a personal backup plan, as evacuations may be ordered, potentially displacing your provider's family as well.
What should I look for when evaluating a family daycare home in such a small, close-knit community like Everglades City?
In a small community, reputation and trust are paramount. Start by verifying the provider's current license status and inspection history through the Florida DCF website. Ask for references from other local families. During a visit, observe the home's safety (outdoor play area security, pool fencing if applicable, cleanliness) and the provider's interaction with the children. Given the rural setting, inquire about their plan for outdoor activities and how they handle the local wildlife (e.g., insects, occasional reptiles). Discuss their policies on screen time, meals, and nap schedules. Importantly, in a tight-knit town, clear communication about hours, holidays, and sick policies is crucial to avoid misunderstandings. Leverage local community groups or social media pages for informal feedback on providers.
Nearby Cities
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