The Best Daycare Centers in Savannah, GA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Savannah. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Savannah
The Montessori School of Savannah
Independent
The Montessori School of Savannah is an AMI-recognized school offering authentic Montessori education for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years. The school features highly qualified Montessori-trained teachers, mixed-age classrooms, and a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes independence, hands-on learning, and individualized development. The campus includes beautiful outdoor learning environments, spacious classrooms with authentic Montessori materials, and a strong focus on developing the whole child. With over four decades of operation, they maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and emphasize character development alongside academic preparation.
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The Learning Center of Pooler
Independent
Serving the greater Savannah area, The Learning Center of Pooler offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a play-based curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, certified early childhood educators, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their program includes nutritious meals, extended hours for working parents, and specialized enrichment programs. The facility includes multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups and maintains excellent safety records with regular parent communication through digital platforms.
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Primrose School of Savannah
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Savannah is part of the nationally recognized Primrose Schools franchise, offering the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, math, science, and creative arts in a safe, engaging environment. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor learning spaces, and dedicated music and art rooms. Staff includes degreed early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development, and the school maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Savannah, GA
What are the typical costs for daycare in Savannah, GA, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Savannah, daycare costs vary significantly based on the child's age, type of facility, and location within the city. For an infant, full-time center-based care typically ranges from $800 to $1,200 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs are slightly lower, averaging $650 to $950 per month. Home-based family childcare is often more affordable, ranging from $500 to $800 monthly. To help with these expenses, Georgia offers the Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program, which provides subsidies to eligible low-income families. Additionally, many Savannah centers offer sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with local employers, as some, like Gulfstream and the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System, may offer dependent care flexible spending accounts or referral services.
How do I verify a daycare is properly licensed in Savannah, and what are Georgia's key childcare regulations?
All childcare centers and group homes in Savannah must be licensed by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). You can verify a facility's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations through the **DECAL Bright from the Start website** or by calling their office. Key Georgia regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:6 for infants, 1:10 for 4-year-olds), mandatory background checks for all employees, and required health and safety training. Savannah facilities must also adhere to specific building safety codes and have emergency plans for events like hurricanes. Always look for the license posted visibly at the facility and don't hesitate to ask the director for their license number.
Are waitlists common for daycares in Savannah, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for high-quality and well-regarded daycare centers in Savannah, especially for infant rooms. Popular centers in neighborhoods like Ardsley Park, Parkside, and the Historic District often have waitlists ranging from 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer. For preschool programs for 3- and 4-year-olds, waitlists can also be substantial. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin touring and applying to facilities **during their second trimester** to secure a spot. For older children or less competitive times (like mid-year), a 3-4 month lead time is still advisable. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which typically ranges from $50 to $150.
What are some of the unique childcare options or programs available in Savannah that I might not find elsewhere?
Savannah offers several unique childcare options rooted in its local culture and environment. Several centers incorporate **nature-based and outdoor learning** programs, taking advantage of the coastal climate and nearby parks like Forsyth Park. You can also find programs with a **strong arts focus**, connecting to the city's SCAD influence and vibrant arts scene. Some faith-based centers offer programs in historic church settings. Additionally, there are a few centers that provide **language immersion programs**, particularly in Spanish. For school-age children, many local museums (like the Children's Museum) and organizations offer specialized summer camps and after-school programs with themes like maritime history, coastal ecology, and Southern arts.
What should I consider regarding weather and emergency preparedness when choosing a daycare in Savannah?
Given Savannah's coastal location, it's crucial to choose a daycare with robust emergency plans for hurricanes, tropical storms, flooding, and extreme heat. When touring facilities, ask specific questions: What is their **hurricane evacuation or shelter-in-place plan**? Where do they relocate if mandatory evacuation is ordered? How do they communicate with parents during severe weather? Ensure the facility has adequate storm shutters, generators, or backup power for climate control. Also, inquire about their heat policy for outdoor play, as Savannah's summers are intensely hot and humid. A quality center will have clear, written policies, conduct regular drills, and use reliable parent notification systems (like text alerts or apps) for emergencies and early closures.