The Best Daycare Centers in Merritt Island, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Merritt Island. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Merritt Island
The Learning Experience - Merritt Island
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience offers a comprehensive early education curriculum with proprietary programs like L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) and phonics-based instruction. The center features bright, modern classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers, secure entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Staff members undergo extensive training in child development and safety protocols, with low teacher-to-child ratios maintained across all age groups. The facility includes live streaming cameras for parent peace of mind and provides nutritious meals and snacks. Their curriculum emphasizes academic preparation alongside social-emotional development through character-building programs.
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Kiddie Academy of Merritt Island
Kiddie Academy
Kiddie Academy provides Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic learning with character development. The center features secure access controls, comprehensive safety protocols, and well-maintained facilities with dedicated learning spaces for each age group. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The program includes technology integration, hands-on STEM activities, and literacy-focused learning centers. Parent communication is enhanced through daily digital reports and regular conferences. The facility offers spacious outdoor play areas, on-site kitchen providing healthy meals, and flexible scheduling options to accommodate working families.
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Primrose School of Viera
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Viera serves families throughout Brevard County including Merritt Island residents, offering the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, dedicated age-appropriate playgrounds, and well-equipped classrooms with learning centers. Certified teachers implement a research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies while emphasizing character development and life skills. The school maintains excellent staff retention and low student-teacher ratios. Additional features include music and Spanish instruction, nutritious chef-prepared meals, and regular parent education workshops. Their comprehensive safety protocols and health monitoring systems provide exceptional care standards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Merritt Island, FL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Merritt Island, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Merritt Island, the cost of full-time daycare or preschool varies significantly based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants, you can expect to pay between $800 to $1,200 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs typically range from $700 to $1,000 per month. Accredited centers or those with specialized curricula (like Montessori) tend to be at the higher end. For financial assistance, Florida's School Readiness Program, administered locally by the Early Learning Coalition of Brevard (ELC), is a key resource for income-eligible families in Brevard County, including Merritt Island. Additionally, some centers may offer sibling discounts or have partnerships with local employers. It's highly recommended to contact the ELC of Brevard directly to determine your eligibility and get a list of participating providers on the Island.
How long are waitlists for quality daycare centers in Merritt Island, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Merritt Island can be substantial, especially for infant rooms. It's not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. To improve your chances, start your search and get on lists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Be proactive: contact multiple centers, schedule tours, and get on their lists even if the timeline seems far off. Follow up periodically to show continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Merritt Island neighborhoods, as they often have smaller group sizes and may have more immediate availability or shorter wait times.
What specific licensing and safety regulations should I verify for a childcare provider in Merritt Island, Florida?
All childcare providers in Merritt Island must be licensed or registered with the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). You should verify this license is current and view any past inspection reports, which are public record on the DCF website. Key safety aspects mandated by Florida law include background screenings for all staff, specific staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:11 for 4-year-olds), and annual training in topics like CPR, First Aid, and mandated reporter requirements. Given Merritt Island's location, also inquire about their specific plans for hurricanes and tropical storms, including evacuation procedures and communication protocols. A quality center will readily share this information and may have additional accreditations from organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Are there daycare options in Merritt Island that cater to parents with non-traditional or shift work schedules?
Yes, but they are more limited. While most traditional daycare centers in Merritt Island operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule, there are alternatives for shift workers. Some licensed family childcare homes may offer more flexible or extended hours. Additionally, it's worth inquiring at larger centers if they offer occasional "drop-in" care for pre-registered families, which can help cover irregular shifts. For reliable overnight or weekend care, you may need to look into hiring a licensed in-home nanny or babysitter through reputable agencies serving the Space Coast area. Networking with other local parents in Merritt Island, especially those working at the Kennedy Space Center or in healthcare, can also lead to recommendations for providers who accommodate atypical schedules.
What are the advantages of enrolling my child in a VPK (Voluntary Prekindergarten) program in Merritt Island, and how do I find a provider?
Florida's FREE Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program is a major benefit for 4-year-olds (and some 5-year-olds) in Merritt Island. It prepares children for kindergarten with a focus on early literacy, social, and cognitive skills. You can choose from school-year (540 hours) or summer (300 hours) programs at participating private daycare centers, preschools, and public schools. In Merritt Island, many quality centers are VPK providers. To enroll, first apply for a VPK Certificate of Eligibility online through the Early Learning Coalition of Brevard's website. Once you have the certificate, you can contact local providers directly to register. Popular Merritt Island VPK providers often fill quickly, so early registration is key. This program can significantly reduce your childcare costs during your child's pre-K year.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Merritt Island: