The Best Daycare Centers in Sarasota, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sarasota. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sarasota
The Goddard School of Sarasota
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Sarasota offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their play-based curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and physical development. The school features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and live streaming for parents. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated art and music rooms, and modern classrooms with natural lighting.
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The Learning Experience - Sarasota
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Sarasota utilizes their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, foreign language, manners and etiquette, and fitness programs. Their Bubbles the Fish® philanthropy curriculum teaches children the importance of giving back. The center features secure entry systems, comprehensive video monitoring, and strict health and safety protocols. All lead teachers have early childhood education credentials and participate in continuous training. The facility includes interactive whiteboards, age-specific learning centers, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and a dedicated splash pad for water play during warmer months.
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Sarasota Montessori School
Independent
Sarasota Montessori School provides authentic Montessori education guided by AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) trained teachers. The child-directed approach emphasizes hands-on learning, independence, and respect for individual development pace. Classrooms are carefully prepared environments with Montessori materials that promote sensory development, practical life skills, and academic foundations. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and employs staff with specialized Montessori certifications. Safety features include secure campus access, comprehensive emergency protocols, and natural outdoor learning environments with gardens. The program focuses on developing the whole child through mixed-age classrooms that foster community and peer learning.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sarasota, FL
What are the typical costs for infant daycare in Sarasota, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Sarasota, the cost for full-time infant daycare (children under 1 year) typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,600 per month, with prices often higher in newer facilities or those with specialized curricula. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs generally range from $900 to $1,400 monthly. Several local and state programs can help offset these costs. The Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County administers the School Readiness and Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) programs, which provide income-based subsidies for working families and free VPK for all 4-year-olds. Additionally, some centers offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's highly recommended to contact the Early Learning Coalition directly to determine your eligibility for assistance.
How long are daycare waitlists in Sarasota, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Waitlists for high-quality, licensed daycare centers in popular areas of Sarasota (like downtown, Lakewood Ranch, or near major employers) can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long for infants. For toddlers and preschoolers, waitlists may be shorter, around 3-6 months. We strongly advise parents to begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy for infant care. Many centers allow you to join a waitlist before your child is born. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $50-$100) and to follow up periodically to maintain your spot.
What should I look for to ensure a daycare or preschool is properly licensed and safe in Sarasota?
All childcare facilities in Sarasota must be licensed or registered with the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). You should first verify a provider's license status and review their compliance history online through the DCF Child Care Facility Search. Look for facilities that are "Gold Seal Quality Care" accredited, a voluntary state program that signifies higher standards. During a tour, ask about staff-to-child ratios (Florida law requires 1:4 for infants, 1:6 for 1-year-olds, 1:11 for 2-year-olds, etc.), background checks for all employees, and their emergency preparedness plans for hurricanes, which are critical in our area. Also, observe the cleanliness and safety of the physical environment.
Are there unique outdoor or enrichment programs offered by Sarasota daycares that take advantage of the local environment?
Yes, many Sarasota childcare centers leverage our beautiful Gulf Coast environment and cultural amenities. Look for programs that incorporate "nature-based" learning, with regular outdoor play and exploration in secured, shaded areas. Some centers have gardening programs where children grow Florida-friendly plants. Others may include occasional or regular enrichment activities like introductory water safety/splash days (given our proximity to water), visits from the Mote Marine Laboratory outreach programs, or music and movement classes inspired by our local arts scene. A few premium centers might even organize supervised beach walks or field trips to places like the Sarasota Children's Garden or local parks as part of their curriculum for older preschoolers.
How does the seasonal population fluctuation ("snowbird season") affect daycare availability and operations in Sarasota?
Sarasota's significant seasonal population increase from roughly November to April can impact childcare in a few ways. First, availability may become even tighter, as seasonal residents and workers also seek short-term or seasonal care for their children or grandchildren. Some centers may have specific policies or limited spots for short-term enrollments. Second, traffic patterns change, potentially affecting drop-off and pick-up times. It's important to ask a center if they have a policy for holding spots for year-round families versus accepting seasonal enrollments. Furthermore, some programs might adjust their activities or schedules slightly to accommodate the vibrant cultural events happening in the city during the season. Planning ahead and securing a year-round spot well before the season starts is crucial.