The Best Daycare Centers in Bernard, ME
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bernard. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bernard
Mount Desert Island Early Learning Center
Mount Desert Island Regional School System
This highly-regarded early learning center serves the entire Mount Desert Island area including Bernard. They offer a comprehensive play-based curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development and kindergarten readiness. The center features certified early childhood educators with low student-teacher ratios, modern security systems including keypad entry, and nutritious meal programs. Their outdoor learning environment includes nature exploration areas and age-appropriate playgrounds. The center is known for its strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, plus extensive professional development for staff.
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The Children's Center
The Children's Center of Hancock County
Serving families throughout Hancock County including Bernard, this NAEYC-accredited center provides high-quality early childhood education with a focus on individualized learning. Their curriculum combines Reggio Emilia-inspired approaches with structured academic preparation. Features include degreed lead teachers, comprehensive safety protocols, indoor gross motor room, and natural outdoor play spaces. The center emphasizes inclusive education and offers special needs support services. Parents praise the consistent communication and the center's commitment to creating a nurturing, stimulating environment for all developmental stages.
Daycare Services:
Tree of Life Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Blue Hill and serving the Bernard area, Tree of Life offers a nature-inspired curriculum that integrates outdoor education with traditional early learning. The center features certified teachers with specialized training in early literacy and STEM education, secure facility with surveillance systems, and organic meal program. Their unique approach includes daily outdoor exploration, gardening activities, and environmental stewardship projects. The center maintains excellent staff retention rates and is praised for its warm, family-like atmosphere and strong community connections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bernard, ME
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Bernard, Maine, and how can I verify a facility's status?
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 standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. For Bernard specifically, you can verify a provider's license and view any compliance history through the online "Child Care Search" tool on the Maine DHHS website. It's highly recommended to choose a licensed provider, as they undergo regular inspections and background checks. You can also contact the local DHHS licensing office serving Hancock County for additional verification.
Are there any subsidized childcare or financial assistance programs available for families in Bernard, ME?
Yes, Maine offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through the Office of Child and Family Services (OCFS) to help eligible low and moderate-income families pay for childcare. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (e.g., employment, education). Given Bernard's rural location in Hancock County, applying early is key, as funding can be limited. You apply through the Maine DHHS. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees. It's also worth inquiring about the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit when filing your taxes. For the most current income guidelines and application, contact the DHHS office in Ellsworth, which serves the area.
Given Bernard's small, rural setting, what is the typical availability of daycare slots, and how long are waitlists?
Due to Bernard's small population and limited number of providers, securing a daycare spot can be competitive, especially for infants and toddlers. It is very common for families to encounter waitlists, which can range from several months to over a year, particularly for highly sought-after licensed family homes or centers in nearby towns like Bar Harbor or Southwest Harbor. The best strategy is to begin your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact providers directly to inquire about current openings and get on multiple waitlists. Be prepared to consider providers in surrounding communities, as many Bernard residents commute for childcare.
What are the average costs for infant and toddler daycare in the Bernard area?
Costs vary based on the type of care and the provider's location. For Bernard and the surrounding Downeast region, licensed family childcare homes typically charge between $175 and $225 per week for full-time infant care. Childcare centers in nearby larger towns like Ellsworth or Bar Harbor may range from $225 to $300+ per week for infants. Toddler care is often slightly less expensive. These rates are generally lower than in Portland or Southern Maine but can still represent a significant portion of a household budget. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of what is included (meals, supplies, etc.) and inquire about any registration or annual fees.
What local resources or networks can help me find and evaluate childcare options in Bernard and Hancock County?
The primary resource is **Maine's Child Care Resource Development Center (CCRDC)**, which operates a referral line and website for the entire state. They can provide lists of licensed providers in your zip code (04612) and surrounding areas. For a more local touch, consider connecting with other parents through community hubs like the Bernard Post Office, the Bernard Town Office, or local Facebook groups (e.g., "Hancock County Moms" or "Mount Desert Island Community"). The Mount Desert Island Family Health Center may also have referrals. For evaluating quality, look for providers participating in Maine's Quality for ME rating system, which is a voluntary program that assesses and supports program improvement.
Nearby Cities
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