The Best Daycare Centers in Summerfield, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Summerfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Summerfield
The Goddard School of Ocala
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Ocala offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. The school features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and secure classroom environments. Certified teachers implement age-appropriate curriculum focusing on literacy, STEM, social-emotional development, and creative arts. The facility includes spacious classrooms, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and nutritionally balanced meal programs. Parents praise the school's communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Kiddie Academy of Ocala
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Ocala provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that integrates character development, technology, and hands-on learning. The academy maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive emergency protocols, and regular safety drills. The program emphasizes STEM education, literacy development, and social skills through structured learning centers and purposeful play. Facilities include age-appropriate learning environments, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and dedicated spaces for music and movement. The academy offers real-time updates through their mobile app and maintains strong parent partnerships.
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The Sunshine House of Ocala
The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy
The Sunshine House of Ocala delivers high-quality early education through their Creative Curriculum® that focuses on whole-child development across cognitive, social-emotional, and physical domains. The center features enhanced security measures including electronic entry systems, surveillance monitoring, and strict pick-up authorization protocols. Experienced teachers implement individualized learning plans and maintain detailed developmental portfolios for each child. The program includes Spanish language exposure, music enrichment, and technology integration. Facilities include modern classrooms with natural lighting, age-separated playgrounds, and dedicated art and learning centers. The center is known for its inclusive environment and strong community connections, with regular family engagement events and transparent communication practices.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Summerfield, FL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Summerfield, FL?
In Summerfield, FL, the cost of full-time childcare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant (under 1 year), you can expect to pay between $175 to $225 per week at a licensed daycare center. For toddlers and preschoolers, weekly rates typically range from $150 to $190. In-home family childcare providers may offer slightly lower rates, often between $130 to $170 per week. These costs are generally in line with the Marion County average but can be lower than in larger Florida metros like Orlando. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Some centers in the area may also offer sibling discounts.
How do I verify a childcare provider's license and inspection history in Summerfield?
All childcare facilities in Summerfield must be licensed and regulated by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can verify a provider's license and view their complete inspection history, including any violations, through the official Florida DCF Child Care Facility Search website. Simply enter the provider's name or location. We recommend looking for providers with a "Gold Seal Quality Care" designation, a voluntary Florida accreditation that indicates higher standards. You can also contact the local DCF Child Care Resource and Referral agency for Marion County for additional guidance. Always visit a facility in person to observe the environment and ask the director for their latest inspection report.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Summerfield, and how can I navigate them?
Due to Summerfield's growing family population and limited number of centers, waitlists for infants and toddlers are common, especially at highly-rated facilities. Wait times can range from a few months to over a year for infant spots. To navigate this, we recommend contacting centers as early as possible during pregnancy. Get on multiple waitlists, even if there's a small fee. Consider expanding your search to nearby communities like The Villages, Belleview, or Ocala, which may have more availability. In-home family childcare providers often have shorter waitlists and can be a great interim solution. Be proactive, follow up regularly with centers, and have a backup plan.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in Summerfield?
For school-age children attending local Marion County Public Schools like Liberty Middle School or elementary schools that feed into it, several options exist. Some licensed daycare centers in Summerfield offer before and after-school programs with transportation to and from specific schools. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Marion County also operates afterschool programs at some local schools, offering a structured, affordable option. Additionally, you can find in-home providers who cater to school-age children. It's crucial to confirm transportation logistics, program hours, and what activities/snacks are provided. Registration for these programs often fills quickly, so inquire with your child's school and local providers well before the school year begins.
What local resources or programs in Marion County can help with childcare costs for Summerfield residents?
Summerfield families may qualify for financial assistance through two primary state programs administered by the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County (ELCMC). The School Readiness program offers income-based subsidies to help working families pay for care at participating providers. The Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program provides free, part-time pre-K education for all 4-year-olds, which can be used at many local daycare centers and schools to offset costs. You must apply directly through the ELCMC website or office. Additionally, some local centers may offer their own scholarships or sliding scale fees. We recommend contacting the ELCMC directly to determine your eligibility and for a referral to participating providers in the Summerfield area.