The Best Daycare Centers in Calais, ME
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Calais. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Calais
Calais Children's Center
Independent
Calais Children's Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility serving the Calais community with comprehensive early childhood programs. The center features a developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math readiness, and social-emotional learning through play-based activities. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments with age-appropriate classrooms and outdoor play areas. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The center is known for its strong parent communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences, along with nutritious meal programs that meet USDA guidelines.
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Princeton Children's Center
Independent
Located approximately 15 miles from Calais, Princeton Children's Center serves families throughout Washington County with high-quality early childhood education. The center implements a research-based curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, creative arts, and literacy development tailored to each age group. Qualified early childhood educators provide individualized learning experiences in well-equipped classrooms featuring learning centers for dramatic play, block building, and sensory exploration. The facility maintains rigorous safety standards including video monitoring, secure check-in systems, and comprehensive emergency preparedness plans. Parent involvement is encouraged through family events, regular progress updates, and an open-door policy. The center offers flexible scheduling options and transportation services for school-age children in the surrounding communities.
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Woodland Elementary School Pre-K Program
School Administrative District 77
As part of the local school district serving the Calais region, Woodland Elementary School's Pre-K program provides high-quality early education with certified teachers and structured curriculum alignment with Maine's Early Learning Standards. The program focuses on school readiness through literacy development, numeracy skills, and social competence in a public school setting. Certified early childhood teachers implement evidence-based instructional strategies with paraprofessional support, maintaining optimal staff-to-student ratios. The facility benefits from school district resources including library access, gymnasium, and outdoor playgrounds designed for young children. Safety is prioritized with school resource officers, controlled building access, and comprehensive health services. The program seamlessly transitions children into kindergarten with familiar routines and environments, while offering extended care options for working families throughout the school district service area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Calais, ME
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Calais, Maine?
In Calais, the cost of full-time daycare can vary based on the type of provider. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately $150 to $200 per week for an infant or toddler. In-home family childcare providers may offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from $120 to $170 per week. These costs are generally lower than in larger Maine cities like Portland or Bangor, reflecting the local cost of living. It's important to note that many providers in the area offer part-time or drop-in rates as well. Parents should also inquire about what is included in the fee, such as meals, snacks, and supplies. Financial assistance is available for eligible families through the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Child Care Subsidy Program.
How can I find and verify licensed childcare providers in Calais?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare in Calais is the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Child Care Licensing unit. You can use their online search tool called "Spark" (spark.maine.gov) to find licensed centers and family childcare homes in Washington County, including Calais. This tool allows you to filter by location, age group, and type of care. Once you have a list of potential providers, you can verify their current license status and review any recent licensing reports or inspection findings on the same website. It is also highly recommended to visit the facility in person, ask for references from other local parents, and check with the local resource development organization, "Community Caring Collaborative," which often has connections to quality childcare providers in the region.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Calais, and how can I plan ahead?
Yes, due to limited provider capacity in a smaller community like Calais, waitlists for infant and toddler care are common and can be several months long. It is not unusual for popular centers or well-regarded family childcare homes to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, especially for infants. To plan ahead, parents should begin their search during pregnancy or as soon as they know they will need care. Contact multiple providers to get on their waitlists, and be sure to ask about their specific policies, such as whether a deposit is required to hold a spot. Staying in periodic contact with providers on your list can also be helpful. Exploring options in nearby towns like Baileyville or Perry may provide additional alternatives if Calais waitlists are full.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in Calais?
For school-age children attending Calais Elementary School, the primary option for before and after-school care is typically the school-based program, if available. You should contact the Calais School Department directly to inquire about the "Calais Adventure Club" or similar extended day programs. These programs usually operate on school premises and align with the school calendar. If a school-based program is not available or full, some licensed family childcare homes in the area may offer before and after-school care, including transportation to and from school. Given the limited number of providers, securing a spot early is crucial. The local Boys & Girls Club or the Calais Recreation Department may also offer seasonal or holiday programs for school-age children.
What specific state regulations and staff qualifications should I look for in a Calais daycare?
All licensed childcare providers in Calais must adhere to Maine's strict licensing rules. Key regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers), maximum group sizes, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Lead teachers in a center-based program must have at least a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or an equivalent degree. You should look for providers who exceed these minimums, such as those with staff who have higher education in early childhood or those participating in Maine's Quality for ME rating system, which assesses learning environments and practices. In-home providers must also be licensed and meet safety and health standards for their homes. Don't hesitate to ask a provider for their licensing certificate and their most recent DHHS inspection report.