The Best Daycare Centers in Winter Park, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Winter Park. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Winter Park
Primrose School of Winter Park
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Winter Park operates as part of the nationally recognized Primrose Schools franchise with a Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The curriculum focuses on developing literacy, math, science, social studies, and creative arts through hands-on activities. All teachers are required to have early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning spaces for each age group. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, structured environment, and the developmental progress they observe in their children.
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The Goddard School of Winter Park
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Winter Park follows the F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that promotes play-based learning while developing social, cognitive, and physical skills. The school employs degreed teachers who implement STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities and language development programs. Safety features include secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The facility includes multiple playgrounds, enrichment rooms, and classroom environments designed specifically for different age groups. Parents frequently mention the caring staff, clean facilities, and excellent communication in their reviews.
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Winter Park Day Nursery
Independent Non-Profit
As Winter Park's oldest continuously operating childcare facility, Winter Park Day Nursery provides high-quality early education with a focus on serving diverse families. The center uses Creative Curriculum® with developmentally appropriate practices and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Teachers hold Child Development Associate credentials or higher degrees in early childhood education. The non-profit organization offers sliding scale tuition and scholarship programs to increase accessibility. The historic campus features renovated classrooms, shaded outdoor play areas, and a nature-based learning environment. Long-standing community reputation and consistent quality care make this a top choice for Winter Park families seeking established, trustworthy childcare.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Winter Park, FL
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Winter Park, FL?
In Winter Park, the cost of full-time daycare varies significantly based on the type of center and the age of the child. For infants (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,800 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers, costs typically range from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. Prices are often higher at nationally accredited centers or those with specialized educational philosophies (like Montessori) located in areas like the Park Avenue corridor. Home-based family childcare is generally more affordable, ranging from $800 to $1,200 monthly. It's important to note that these are base rates; additional fees for registration, supplies, or early/late pick-up are common.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Winter Park, and how far in advance should I apply?
Yes, due to high demand and limited infant slots (driven by strict Florida staff-to-child ratios), many reputable daycare centers in Winter Park have substantial waitlists, especially for infants. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists **6 to 12 months** before your needed start date. For popular centers near major employers like AdventHealth or Rollins College, waitlists can be even longer. For toddler and preschool-age openings, 3-6 months of lead time is more common but still advisable. When touring, always ask for the current estimated wait time for your child's age group.
What are the key state licensing requirements I should verify for a daycare in Winter Park?
All childcare facilities in Winter Park must be licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). Key requirements to verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:6 for 1-year-olds, 1:11 for 3-year-olds), comprehensive **background screenings** for all staff, and minimum **educational requirements** for directors and lead teachers. Centers must also pass health, safety, and fire inspections. You can and should check a facility's licensing history, including any violations, for free on the DCF website. Look for centers that are "Gold Seal" accredited, a voluntary Florida program denoting high-quality standards beyond the minimum.
What resources are available in Winter Park to help me find and evaluate quality childcare options?
The primary local resource is the **Early Learning Coalition of Orange County (ELCOC)**, which manages the School Readiness subsidy program and offers a free referral service. You can use their online search tool or call for a customized list of licensed providers in Winter Park. Additionally, the **Florida Office of Early Learning's "Child Care Resource and Referral"** network provides quality ratings and inspection reports. For on-the-ground insights, Winter Park parents often rely on community Facebook groups (e.g., Winter Park Moms) and neighborhood apps like Nextdoor for personal recommendations and reviews.
How do Winter Park daycare centers typically handle hurricane closures and other local emergency plans?
Licensed centers in Winter Park are required by Florida DCF to have a written emergency preparedness plan. For hurricanes, most centers closely follow the closure decisions of **Orange County Public Schools**. If schools close, daycares almost always close as well. It's crucial to ask a center for specifics: their notification system (text, email, app), their policy on tuition during extended closures, and their relocation plan if the facility is damaged. Many centers are also designated as "special needs shelters" or have generators. Always ensure your center has your current contact information and discuss their plan for early pick-up if a storm warning is issued during operating hours.