The Best Daycare Centers in Dededo, GU
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Dededo. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Dededo
Dededo Head Start Center
Guam Head Start Program
The Dededo Head Start Center is a federally funded program providing comprehensive early childhood education focused on school readiness for low-income families. It emphasizes holistic development through evidence-based curricula that include literacy, math, and social-emotional learning. Staff are highly qualified with certifications in early childhood education and receive ongoing training. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios, follows strict safety protocols including secure access and regular health inspections, and offers nutritious meals through the USDA Child Nutrition Program. Parent involvement is encouraged through workshops and family events, fostering a strong community partnership.
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Guam Early Learning Academy
Private
Guam Early Learning Academy is renowned for its play-based curriculum integrated with STEM education, language immersion, and creative arts. The center features certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, and it maintains low student-to-teacher ratios to ensure personalized attention. Safety is prioritized with secured entry systems, CCTV monitoring, and routine emergency drills. The facility includes modern classrooms, indoor play areas, and shaded outdoor spaces designed for age-appropriate activities. Parent satisfaction is high due to regular progress updates, flexible scheduling, and a focus on developing critical thinking and social skills in children.
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Kids First Learning Center
Private
Kids First Learning Center, located in nearby Barrigada, serves the Dededo area with a holistic approach that combines creative arts, music, and physical education into its curriculum. The center employs qualified staff with backgrounds in child development and offers programs tailored to individual learning styles. Safety measures include keypad entry, background-checked employees, and hygienic practices. The facility boasts spacious play areas, learning labs, and a nutrition program that provides balanced meals. Parents appreciate the center's strong communication, cultural inclusivity, and emphasis on building confidence and independence in children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Dededo, GU
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Dededo, Guam, and how can I verify a provider is properly licensed?
In Dededo and all of Guam, childcare facilities must be licensed by the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS), specifically the Division of Public Welfare's Child Care Licensing Unit. Licensed centers must meet standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including CPR/first aid), facility safety, health and sanitation, and program curriculum. To verify a provider's license, you can directly ask the center for their current license certificate, or contact the DPHSS Child Care Licensing Unit at (671) 735-7293. It's highly recommended to only use licensed providers, as this ensures a baseline of safety and oversight. Unlicensed "babysitting" operations are not subject to these regulations.
Are there any subsidized or affordable childcare programs available for military families or low-income residents in Dededo?
Yes, there are specific programs for both groups. For military families stationed at Andersen Air Force Base, which is adjacent to Dededo, the Child Development Center (CDC) on base is a primary, accredited option offering fee assistance based on total family income. Off-base, the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services administers the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) subsidy program for eligible low-income working families or those in training/education. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. Additionally, some local centers in Dededo may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's crucial to apply for these subsidies early, as funding can be limited.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant and toddler daycare in Dededo, and what factors influence the price?
In Dededo, full-time daycare for infants (6 weeks to 18 months) typically ranges from $800 to $1,200 per month. Toddler care (18 months to 3 years) generally costs between $700 and $1,000 per month. Several factors influence these prices: accreditation (e.g., centers with national accreditation like NAEYC are often at the higher end), extended hours, meal provisions, curriculum (like Montessori), and the staff-to-child ratio. Proximity to Andersen Air Force Base can also affect pricing due to demand. Always ask what is included in the tuition (diapers, wipes, formula, meals) as this impacts the overall value.
How long are waitlists for quality daycare centers in Dededo, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Waitlists for reputable, licensed daycare centers in Dededo, especially for infants, can be quite long, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, and sometimes over a year for popular centers or base-affiliated programs. This is due to high demand and limited capacity. To secure a spot, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Get on multiple waitlists, even if a center isn't your top choice, as plans can change. Follow up with centers every 4-6 weeks to confirm your spot on the list and show continued interest. Be prepared with a backup plan, such as a licensed family childcare home or a nanny share, which may have more immediate availability.
What are some local considerations for choosing a daycare in Dededo, such as typhoon preparedness or cultural integration?
Two critical local considerations are disaster preparedness and cultural context. Given Guam's location in a typhoon-prone region, always ask about a center's emergency and typhoon preparedness plan. They should have a clear protocol for sheltering in place, communication with parents, and backup power/water supplies. Culturally, many centers in Dededo integrate Chamorro language, stories, and traditions into their programs, which can be a valuable experience for your child. Also, consider the center's operational hours in relation to common local work schedules and potential traffic delays in the island's most populous village. Visiting during pickup/dropoff times can give you a sense of the community and logistical flow.