The Best Daycare Centers in Tallevast, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Tallevast. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Tallevast
The Learning Experience - Sarasota
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Sarasota offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum that focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and surveillance cameras. All lead teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, interactive learning centers, and dedicated art and music rooms. Parents appreciate the regular communication through the mobile app and the focus on character development through their philanthropy curriculum.
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Lakewood Ranch Child Care Center
Independent
Lakewood Ranch Child Care Center is a NAEYC-accredited facility offering developmentally appropriate programs for children 6 weeks to 5 years. The center follows Creative Curriculum with individualized learning plans and emphasizes hands-on, play-based learning. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The teaching staff maintains low student-teacher ratios with most teachers holding CDA credentials or higher. The center features large, well-equipped classrooms, shaded outdoor play areas, and provides nutritious meals and snacks following USDA guidelines.
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Children First - Early Head Start & Head Start
Children First
Children First operates high-quality early learning centers with a comprehensive family support approach. As a Head Start and Early Head Start provider, they offer evidence-based curriculum focusing on school readiness, social-emotional development, and health services. The center employs degreed teachers with specialized training in early childhood development and maintains Gold Seal Quality Care certification. Services include on-site health screenings, nutritional services, and family partnership programs. The facility features developmentally appropriate learning environments, outdoor nature exploration areas, and maintains rigorous safety protocols including comprehensive staff background checks and emergency preparedness plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Tallevast, FL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Tallevast, Florida, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Tallevast, as in all of Florida, childcare facilities must be licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). This includes family daycare homes, large family childcare homes, and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and staff training. You can verify a provider's license, view inspection reports, and check for any disciplinary history using the DCF's official "Child Care Facility Search" tool online. It's highly recommended to use this tool and even call the local DCF licensing office for the Sarasota County area to ask specific questions before enrolling your child.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with the cost of childcare for families living in Tallevast?
Yes, Florida offers the School Readiness Program, which provides financial assistance for childcare to eligible low-income working families or those in education/training programs. This program is administered locally by the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County (ELCSC). Since Tallevast is in Sarasota County, families should apply directly through the ELCSC. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. Additionally, you may qualify for the federal Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher, often accessed through the same coalition. We recommend contacting the ELCSC directly to determine your eligibility and navigate the application process.
Given Tallevast's smaller size, what are my main options for childcare, and are long waitlists common?
Tallevast itself has a limited number of dedicated childcare centers, so many families look to nearby communities like Sarasota, Bradenton, and Lakewood Ranch for more options. Your primary choices will include licensed family daycare homes within residential areas of Tallevast and larger childcare centers in the surrounding cities. Due to high demand and staffing challenges across the region, waitlists, especially for infant care and highly-rated centers, are very common and can be several months long. It's crucial to start your search early, get on multiple waitlists, and consider a mix of center-based and home-based options to increase your chances of securing a spot.
What is the average cost range for full-time infant and toddler daycare in the Tallevast area?
Costs in the Tallevast and greater Sarasota County area are moderately high, reflecting Florida's overall childcare market. For full-time care (5 days a week), you can expect to pay approximately **$225 to $350 per week for an infant** and **$200 to $300 per week for a toddler**. Prices are typically higher at nationally accredited centers in nearby Sarasota or Bradenton and may be slightly lower for licensed family daycare homes in Tallevast proper. Always ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, snacks, curriculum, diapers) as this can affect the overall value.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare center or home near Tallevast, given Florida's specific climate and environment?
Beyond standard checks for cleanliness and staff interaction, pay close attention to Florida-specific factors. First, inquire about **hurricane preparedness and evacuation plans**. A good facility will have a clear policy. Second, inspect the **outdoor play areas** for adequate shade, sun protection protocols (hats/sunscreen), and secure fencing. Given the heat, ask about water play and hydration schedules. Third, because of Florida's pest population, ensure the facility is well-sealed and has a plan for mosquito and ant control. Finally, ask about their policy during frequent afternoon thunderstorms—do they have ample indoor gross motor space for active play when outdoors isn't an option?