The Best Daycare Centers in Addison, ME
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Addison. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Addison
Washington County Children's Program - Machias Center
Washington County Children's Program
Washington County Children's Program is a highly-regarded nonprofit childcare center serving the Addison area with a focus on developmental and educational excellence. They employ a play-based learning curriculum aligned with Maine's Early Learning and Development Standards, emphasizing social-emotional growth, literacy, and STEM activities. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with CPR and First Aid training, and the center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized care. The facility features secure access, nutritious meal programs, and indoor/outdoor play spaces designed for age-appropriate exploration. Parents praise its inclusive environment and strong community ties, with regular progress updates and family engagement events.
Daycare Services:
Eastport Child Care Center
Independent
Eastport Child Care Center offers a nurturing, home-like environment with a curriculum centered on hands-on, experiential learning. Their approach integrates Montessori-inspired activities with state-approved early learning guidelines, focusing on creativity, independence, and kindergarten readiness. The center boasts qualified teachers with backgrounds in early childhood education, and it emphasizes safety through rigorous cleanliness protocols and fenced outdoor play areas. Services include organic meal options and flexible scheduling to accommodate working families. High parent satisfaction stems from its small group sizes and attentive communication, making it a trusted choice for families in the Addison region.
Daycare Services:
Ellsworth Child Development Center
Independent
Ellsworth Child Development Center is a top-rated facility known for its comprehensive, research-based curriculum that includes literacy, math, and science components tailored to each age group. They employ degreed early childhood professionals and maintain high safety standards with secure entry systems and regular drills. The center features modern classrooms, extensive outdoor learning environments, and a focus on social skills development through group activities. Parents highlight its strong educational outcomes, transparent communication, and commitment to diversity. With partnerships for enrichment programs and a track record of preparing children for elementary school, it serves as a reliable option for Addison-area families seeking quality care.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Addison, ME
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Addison, Maine, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Maine, all childcare providers caring for three or more unrelated children must be licensed by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). This includes family childcare homes and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. For Addison specifically, which is a small, rural town in Washington County, many options are licensed family childcare homes. You can verify a provider's license status and view any compliance history through the State of Maine's online "Child Care Search" tool. It's also recommended to contact the local DHHS Office in Machias for the most current information, as the availability of licensed care in Addison itself can be limited.
Given Addison's rural location, what types of childcare options are typically available, and are there long waitlists?
Due to its rural nature, Addison's primary childcare options are licensed family childcare homes operated out of a provider's residence. There are no large childcare centers within the town itself. Parents often also look in neighboring towns like Columbia, Harrington, or Machias for additional options, including some small centers. Waitlists are a significant challenge in Washington County, where childcare slots are scarce. It is very common for providers in and around Addison to have waitlists, sometimes six months to a year long, especially for infant care. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, even during pregnancy.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for a toddler in Addison or the surrounding Washington County area?
Childcare costs in rural Maine like Addison tend to be lower than the state average, but availability heavily influences price. For a toddler in a licensed family childcare home in the Addison area, you can expect to pay approximately $150 to $200 per week for full-time care. Costs may be slightly higher in a center setting in a nearby town like Machias. It's important to note that these rates are estimates, and you should contact providers directly for their current fees. Maine offers financial assistance through the Child Care Subsidy Program for eligible families, which can significantly offset costs.
Are there any state or local programs in Maine that help parents in Addison find and afford childcare?
Yes, Maine has several key programs. The most significant is the **Child Care Subsidy Program** (CCSP), which provides financial assistance to eligible working families, those in education/training, or those receiving TANF. You apply through the DHHS. For finding care, the state-run **Child Care Search** website is the primary tool. Additionally, the **Maine Association for the Education of Young Children (Maine AEYC)** and the local **Child Care Resource Development Center** serving Washington County (often based out of Machias or Calais) can provide referrals and support. For Addison residents, contacting the Washington County DHHS office is a crucial first step.
What should I look for or ask about specifically when touring a family childcare home in a rural community like Addison?
Beyond standard questions about curriculum and daily routines, in a rural setting like Addison, you should inquire about specific logistics and safety plans. Key questions include: What is your plan for emergencies or severe weather, given potential for power outages or road closures? What is your sick child policy, considering longer distances to pediatricians? How do you handle outdoor play and safety on a larger property? Is your water supply from a well, and if so, is it tested regularly? Also, ask about their network with other local providers for backup support. Observing the home's overall safety, cleanliness, and the provider's rapport with the children in a home-like setting is especially important.