The Best Daycare Centers in Shalimar, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Shalimar. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Shalimar
La Petite Academy of Fort Walton Beach
La Petite Academy
La Petite Academy provides comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that focuses on developmental milestones. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds. Teachers maintain low child-to-staff ratios and hold early childhood education credentials. The program emphasizes literacy, STEM activities, and social-emotional development through structured learning centers and hands-on activities. Parents appreciate the consistent communication through daily reports and the center's commitment to safety protocols.
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The Learning Center at Eglin
Childcare Network
Located on Eglin Air Force Base and serving military families and civilians, The Learning Center offers a structured educational program with a focus on school readiness. The center features secure facilities with controlled access, modern classrooms, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their curriculum includes phonics-based literacy, mathematics, science exploration, and character development. Staff members receive ongoing professional development and maintain CPR/first aid certification. The center is particularly noted for its inclusive environment and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
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Children's World Learning Center
Children's World Learning Centers
Children's World Learning Center provides a well-rounded early childhood education program with a balanced approach to academic and social development. The center features purpose-built classrooms, multiple playgrounds for different age groups, and comprehensive security systems. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with emphasis on language development, cognitive skills, and physical coordination. Teachers maintain state-required qualifications and participate in continuous training. The center is recognized for its nutritious meal program, clean facilities, and strong community reputation for quality care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Shalimar, FL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Shalimar, Florida, and how can I verify a provider's compliance?
In Shalimar, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). This includes meeting strict standards for staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:11 for 4-year-olds), background checks for all employees, health and safety protocols, and annual training in topics like CPR and first aid. To verify a provider's license and view their inspection history, including any violations, you can use the DCF's public "Child Care Facility Search" tool online. It's highly recommended to cross-reference this official information and even visit the center in person to observe operations.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Shalimar, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Shalimar and greater Fort Walton Beach area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $800 to $1,200 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $700 to $1,000 per month. Costs vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and age of the child. For financial assistance, Florida's School Readiness Program, administered locally by the Early Learning Coalition of Okaloosa and Walton Counties, provides sliding-scale subsidies to eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance. You can apply directly through their office in Fort Walton Beach.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Shalimar, and when should I start looking for care, especially for an infant?
Yes, waitlists are very common, particularly for infant rooms in Shalimar due to lower staff-to-child ratios and high demand from military families associated with Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. Many reputable centers have waitlists that can be several months long. Be sure to ask about deposit policies and how the waitlist is managed when you tour facilities.
What types of childcare options are most available in Shalimar besides traditional daycare centers?
Shalimar offers a mix of childcare options. In addition to licensed daycare centers, you can find registered family daycare homes (caring for up to 10 children in a residential setting), which often provide a more home-like environment. There are also faith-based preschool programs, often attached to local churches, which may offer part-day or VPK (Voluntary Prekindergarten) programs. For school-age children, the Okaloosa County School District and local organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs offer after-school care. Using the Florida DCF search tool, you can filter by "Family Day Care Home" or "Child Care Facility" to find all licensed options in the 32579 zip code.
How does Florida's Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program work in Shalimar, and how do I enroll my 4-year-old?
Florida's free VPK program is available to all 4-year-olds who are Florida residents. In Shalimar, you can enroll your child in a VPK program at many local daycare centers, private preschools, or public schools. The program offers 540 instructional hours for a school-year program or 300 hours for a summer program. To enroll, you must first obtain a Certificate of Eligibility from the Early Learning Coalition of Okaloosa and Walton Counties by providing proof of your child's age and Florida residency. Once you have the certificate, you can register directly with a participating provider. It's wise to contact VPK providers early, as spots can fill quickly.