The Best Daycare Centers in Jacksonville Beach, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Jacksonville Beach. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Jacksonville Beach
Primrose School of Jacksonville Beach
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Jacksonville Beach offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning curriculum that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The school features dedicated infant rooms with low teacher-to-child ratios, age-appropriate learning environments, and a focus on character development. Their curriculum includes literacy, math, science, social studies, and creative arts, with additional enrichment programs in music and Spanish. The facility includes secure entry systems, regularly sanitized classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development.
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The Goddard School of Jacksonville Beach
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Jacksonville Beach provides a play-based F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that promotes social, emotional, and academic development. Their STEAM-focused curriculum includes robotics, coding, and hands-on science activities adapted for each age group. The school features secure keypad entry, live streaming for parents, and comprehensive safety protocols. Classrooms are designed with learning centers for literacy, math, dramatic play, and art. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios.
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Jacksonville Beach Montessori School
Independent
Jacksonville Beach Montessori School offers authentic Montessori education following AMI principles, with mixed-age classrooms that encourage peer learning and individualized instruction. The school emphasizes hands-on learning with specialized Montessori materials that develop practical life skills, sensorial awareness, and academic foundations. Their infant program focuses on creating a nurturing "prepared environment" that supports natural development, while toddler and primary programs introduce language, mathematics, and cultural studies. The facility includes organic gardens, natural playgrounds, and classrooms filled with natural light. Teachers are Montessori-certified with extensive experience in child development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Jacksonville Beach, FL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Jacksonville Beach, FL?
In Jacksonville Beach, the cost of full-time childcare varies significantly based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant (under 1 year), you can expect to pay between $1,100 and $1,500 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers (1-3 years), costs typically range from $950 to $1,300 per month. Preschool programs (3-5 years) are generally slightly less, averaging $800 to $1,200 monthly. In-home daycare providers may offer lower rates, often between $700 and $1,000 per month. These prices are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum (e.g., Montessori, faith-based), and included amenities (meals, webcams). It's advisable to budget for potential annual increases and inquire about registration fees, which can be $100-$300.
How do I verify a childcare provider's license and inspection history in Jacksonville Beach?
All childcare facilities in Jacksonville Beach must be licensed or registered with the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can verify a provider's status and review their complete inspection history online through the DCF's "Child Care Facility Search" tool. Simply enter the provider's name or location. This report is crucial as it shows licensing status, capacity, any substantiated complaints, and results of routine inspections (looking for violations related to safety, health, and staff qualifications). We recommend checking this for any center or large family daycare home. For smaller, registered family daycare homes, ensure they have a current DCF registration. Always visit in person to see if the environment matches the report.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Jacksonville Beach, and how can I navigate them?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant and toddler spots at highly-rated centers in Jacksonville Beach, especially those near the Beaches neighborhoods or with specialized programs. Wait times can range from 2-3 months to over a year for infants. To navigate this, start your search during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before you need care. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists (note that some charge a non-refundable waitlist fee). Consider a mix of chain centers, local independents, and licensed family homes to increase options. Stay in regular, polite contact with directors. Be flexible with your start date if possible, and have a backup plan, such as a nanny share or a temporary in-home provider, to cover gaps.
What local resources or programs in Jacksonville Beach can help with childcare costs?
Several Florida and local resources can assist Jacksonville Beach families. The primary program is the School Readiness Program, administered by the Early Learning Coalition of Duval (ELC Duval). This state-funded program provides financial assistance on a sliding scale based on family income, work, and/or school requirements. You must apply through the ELC Duval website. Additionally, all 4-year-olds in Florida are eligible for the free Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program, which can significantly reduce preschool costs. Some local centers and faith-based programs may also offer scholarships or sibling discounts. It's best to apply for assistance well in advance, as funding can be limited.
What should I look for in a daycare to ensure it's prepared for Jacksonville Beach's unique weather and location?
Given Jacksonville Beach's coastal environment, prioritize centers with robust emergency plans for hurricanes, tropical storms, and flooding. Ask about their evacuation and shelter-in-place procedures, communication protocols for parents during storms, and where they get weather alerts. Facilities should have hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows. For outdoor play, look for ample shaded areas and sun safety policies (e.g., requiring sunscreen application). Proximity to the ocean also means checking the security of outdoor spaces to prevent unsupervised access to water. Furthermore, inquire if they participate in local emergency drills with the Jacksonville Beach Fire Department. A prepared center will happily discuss these plans in detail.
Nearby Cities
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