The Best Daycare Centers in Burlington, ME
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Burlington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Burlington
Little Sprouts Childcare
Independent
Little Sprouts Childcare is a highly-regarded local facility known for its nurturing environment and play-based learning curriculum. The center focuses on developmental milestones through structured activities and outdoor exploration. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with CPR/First Aid training. Features include secure facilities with coded entry, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent communication. Specializes in small class sizes with low child-to-teacher ratios, emphasizing social-emotional development and school readiness skills.
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The Goddard School of Bangor
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School offers a premier early childhood education program serving the Burlington area with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). Features state-certified teachers, comprehensive security systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and social skills. Facilities include secure playgrounds, modern classrooms with interactive technology, and dedicated art/music spaces. Emphasizes individualized learning plans and regular developmental assessments with strong parent partnership programs.
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Penobscot Bay YMCA Child Development Center
Penobscot Bay YMCA
The YMCA Child Development Center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a focus on whole-child development. Implements Creative Curriculum® with emphasis on literacy, math, and social skills. Features highly-qualified staff with ongoing professional development, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and nutritious USDA-approved meals. Offers inclusive programming with financial assistance options. Strong emphasis on physical activity, character development, and community involvement through YMCA resources and facilities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Burlington, ME
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Burlington, Maine?
In Burlington and the surrounding Penobscot County area, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $175 to $225 per week. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, averaging $150 to $200 per week. Home-based family childcare is often more affordable, averaging $125 to $175 per week. These rates are generally below the state average for Maine, reflecting the rural nature of the region. It's important to note that costs can vary based on the provider's specific programs, meal inclusions, and hours of operation. Many families in the area utilize the Maine Child Care Subsidy Program through the Office of Child and Family Services (OCFS) to help offset these costs if they meet eligibility requirements.
How do I verify that a daycare or childcare provider in Burlington is properly licensed and what are Maine's key regulations?
All licensed childcare providers in Maine, including those in Burlington, are regulated by the state's Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Office of Child and Family Services. You can verify a provider's license status and review their compliance history online through the official **Maine Child Care Licensing Search** tool. Key regulations for licensed providers include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers), maximum group sizes, background checks for all staff, health and safety training, and annual facility inspections. Given Burlington's smaller community, many providers are licensed family childcare homes, which are subject to these same state standards. Always ask to see a provider's current license during your visit.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Burlington, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, due to limited options in a small town like Burlington, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care slots. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search **6 to 12 months** before their needed start date. There are only a handful of licensed providers serving Burlington directly, so many families also look at options in nearby towns like Lincoln, Howland, and Enfield. Contacting providers early allows you to get on multiple waitlists. Be prepared to pay a small, non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$50). Staying in regular, polite contact with providers every few months can help keep your application active and demonstrate your continued interest.
What resources are available in Burlington to help me find and evaluate local childcare options?
The primary resource for parents in Burlington is **Child Care Choices of Eastern Maine**, a Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency funded by the state. They maintain a comprehensive, updated database of all licensed providers in Penobscot County, including family homes and centers. You can contact them for a free, personalized referral list. Additionally, local pediatricians' offices, the Burlington Town Office, and community boards at the Burlington Post Office or the local library often have flyers or information about home-based providers. For evaluation, always schedule in-person tours, ask for references from current parents, and use the Maine DHHS licensing website to check for any past violations.
What are some unique considerations for childcare in a rural area like Burlington, Maine, regarding transportation and hours?
Childcare in rural Burlington presents specific logistical considerations. First, **operating hours** may be less flexible than in urban areas; many providers open around 7:00 AM and close by 5:00 PM to accommodate common local work schedules. Second, **transportation** is a major factor. Very few providers offer transportation services, so parents are responsible for drop-off and pick-up. This is important to consider given winter weather conditions on rural roads. Third, some family childcare homes may offer more **mixed-age group** settings, which can be beneficial for siblings but differs from age-segregated classrooms. Finally, inquire about **backup care plans**; if a home-based provider is ill, you may need alternative arrangements, which can be challenging with fewer options nearby.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Burlington: