The Best Daycare Centers in Flagler Beach, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Flagler Beach. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Flagler Beach
The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy is a highly-regarded childcare center located just minutes from Flagler Beach in Palm Coast. They offer a comprehensive educational program with a focus on early childhood development through play-based learning and structured curriculum. The center features state-certified VPK programs, low student-to-teacher ratios, and a secure facility with monitored access. Their experienced staff includes degreed early childhood educators who implement Creative Curriculum with STEM integration. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, modern classrooms, and nutritional meal programs. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, cleanliness, and the developmental progress children make.
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Palm Coast Montessori School
Palm Coast Montessori School
Palm Coast Montessori School provides authentic Montessori education serving families throughout Flagler County, including Flagler Beach. The school follows AMI-inspired Montessori methods with certified Montessori teachers guiding children through hands-on learning experiences. Their programs emphasize independence, practical life skills, and individualized learning paths. The facility features beautiful Montessori classrooms with natural materials, spacious outdoor environments, and peaceful learning atmospheres. Safety protocols include secure entry systems and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The school is particularly noted for its peaceful environment, qualified teachers, and the academic readiness children develop.
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Kids Connection of Palm Coast
Kids Connection Learning Centers
Kids Connection of Palm Coast is a well-established childcare center that has served Flagler County families for nearly two decades. They offer a balanced approach to early education combining structured academic preparation with social-emotional development. The center features Florida VPK programs, age-appropriate technology integration, and dedicated outdoor play areas. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios and participates in ongoing professional development. The facility includes security cameras, keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Parents frequently mention the center's engaging curriculum, caring staff, and excellent communication about their child's daily activities and progress.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Flagler Beach, FL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Flagler Beach, FL, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Flagler Beach and throughout Florida, all childcare facilities (except certain small, registered family daycares) must be licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. You can verify the license and review any inspection reports for a specific facility using the DCF's official "Child Care Facility Search" tool online. It's highly recommended to check this database and look for facilities with a "Gold Seal" designation, which indicates voluntary accreditation exceeding state minimums. Always visit in person to observe the environment.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Flagler Beach?
The cost of childcare in Flagler Beach is generally in line with the Florida average, though it can be slightly lower than in larger metropolitan areas like Orlando or Miami. For full-time care (5 days a week), parents can expect to pay approximately $180 to $250 per week for a preschool-aged child, and $200 to $300+ per week for infant care. Prices vary based on the type of facility (center-based vs. home-based), the age of the child, and included amenities like meals or educational curricula. It's important to ask what the weekly fee includes and if there are additional costs for registration, supplies, or late pick-up.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Flagler Beach, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to Flagler Beach's relatively small size and growing population, quality daycare centers, especially those with infant programs, can have significant waitlists. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 3 to 9 months. We strongly advise parents to begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6 months before your needed start date. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length and policy. Exploring licensed family childcare homes in residential areas can also be a good alternative with potentially shorter wait times.
What local resources or programs in Flagler County can help with childcare costs?
Florida offers several assistance programs administered at the county level. The primary resource is the **School Readiness Program** through the Early Learning Coalition of Flagler and Volusia Counties. This state-subsidized program helps eligible low-to-moderate income families pay for childcare so parents can work or attend school. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and need. You can apply directly through the Coalition's website or office. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or scholarships. It's also worth checking if your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA), which uses pre-tax dollars for childcare expenses.
Given Flagler Beach's coastal location, what should I look for regarding outdoor play and hurricane/safety protocols at a daycare?
This is a crucial local consideration. A quality daycare in Flagler Beach should have a secure, shaded outdoor play area. Given the strong sun, ask about their sun protection policy (sunscreen application, hats, shaded play times) and insect control. Most importantly, inquire about their **written emergency preparedness plan**. This plan must detail procedures for hurricanes, tropical storms, flooding, and evacuations. Ask where children would be relocated if evacuated, how parents will be notified, and how medications and supplies are managed. Facilities should conduct regular drills. A robust plan demonstrates a provider's commitment to safety in our unique coastal environment.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Flagler Beach: