The Best Daycare Centers in Tybee Island, GA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Tybee Island. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Tybee Island
The Goddard School of Savannah
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their play-based curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and emphasizes individualized learning plans.
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Primrose School of Savannah at Godley Station
Primrose Schools
Primrose School follows the Balanced Learning® approach, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. Their curriculum includes literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and creative arts. The school features secure facilities with monitored entry, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and nutritionally balanced meals prepared on-site. All lead teachers have early childhood education credentials and participate in continuous training. The school emphasizes partnership with parents through regular communication and developmental updates.
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The Children's Center at Skidaway
The Children's Center at Skidaway
The Children's Center at Skidaway provides a nurturing environment with a curriculum that balances structured learning and creative exploration. Their approach incorporates Montessori-inspired elements with traditional early childhood education, focusing on social-emotional development, literacy, and hands-on learning experiences. The center features secure facilities, age-appropriate learning materials, and outdoor nature exploration areas. Teachers maintain state-required qualifications plus additional training in child development. The center emphasizes small class sizes and individualized attention, with strong parent communication and community involvement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Tybee Island, GA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers on Tybee Island, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
All childcare facilities in Tybee Island, Georgia, must be licensed by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). This includes family daycare homes serving more than six children. DECAL licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and CPR/first-aid training), and facility safety. To verify a provider's license, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the DECAL website or directly contact the Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning. It's highly recommended to check a provider's compliance history and any inspection reports, which are public record through DECAL.
Given Tybee Island's small, seasonal community, how can I find reliable childcare, and are waitlists common?
Due to Tybee Island's limited year-round population and high seasonal demand, finding immediate childcare can be challenging. Reliable options include the few licensed centers and family daycare homes on the island, as well as exploring options in nearby Savannah, which has more facilities but involves a commute. Waitlists, especially for infant care and popular year-round programs, are very common and can be several months long. It's crucial to start your search early, get on multiple waitlists, and consider flexible options like nanny shares with other local families. Networking through local Facebook groups (e.g., Tybee Island Moms) or community boards can also uncover in-home providers or babysitters.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Tybee Island, Georgia?
Childcare costs on Tybee Island are generally in line with or slightly above the Georgia state average due to the coastal location and limited supply. For a licensed center, you can expect to pay approximately $800 to $1,200 per month for full-time infant or toddler care. Licensed family daycare homes may offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from $700 to $950 per month. These are estimates, and prices can vary based on the program's hours, curriculum, and amenities. It's important to ask about what's included (meals, supplies, etc.) and compare costs with providers in the wider Chatham County area.
Are there any state or local programs that help with childcare costs for families living on Tybee Island?
Yes, Georgia offers the Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program, which is a subsidy program for eligible low-income families, those in job training, or those receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. Tybee Island residents apply through the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS). Additionally, you can explore the Quality Rated system through DECAL, where higher-rated providers may offer scholarships or have partnerships with funding organizations. The local Chatham County Resource Center can also provide guidance on available assistance programs.
What should I look for in a daycare that is prepared for Tybee Island's unique environment, like hurricanes or extreme summer heat?
Given Tybee Island's coastal environment, it's essential to choose a daycare with robust emergency plans. Ask specifically about their hurricane evacuation and shelter-in-place procedures, including how they communicate with parents during storms. The facility should have a generator or backup power plan for outages. For the extreme heat, ensure the center has adequate air conditioning, shaded outdoor play areas, and a policy for limiting vigorous outdoor activity during peak heat hours. Also, inquire about their sun safety protocols (sunscreen application for older infants/toddlers, hats) and how they handle beach outings or field trips, if offered, to ensure proper supervision and safety near water.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Tybee Island: