The Best Daycare Centers in Georgetown, ME
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Georgetown. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Georgetown
Georgetown Children's House
Independent
Georgetown Children's House is a highly-regarded Montessori-inspired childcare center serving the Georgetown community. The center focuses on child-led learning in a nurturing environment with low teacher-to-child ratios. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, and social-emotional development. The facility features spacious classrooms, natural playgrounds, and a dedicated infant care wing. Teachers hold early childhood education certifications and receive ongoing professional development. The center is known for its strong parent communication, nutritious meal program, and integration with the coastal community through nature-based activities and local field trips.
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Bath Area Family YMCA Childcare
Bath Area Family YMCA
The Bath Area Family YMCA Childcare program serves families throughout Sagadahoc County, including Georgetown residents. This NAEYC-accredited center offers comprehensive early childhood education with a focus on whole-child development. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, creative arts, and physical education. The facility features age-appropriate learning spaces, indoor gross motor areas, and secure outdoor play spaces. Staff members are CPR/first-aid certified and participate in extensive training. The program emphasizes character development, swimming lessons for older children, and financial assistance options for qualifying families.
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Woolwich Central School Preschool Program
Regional School Unit 1
Woolwich Central School's preschool program serves children from Georgetown and surrounding communities within RSU 1. This public school-based program offers high-quality early childhood education with certified teachers and structured curriculum aligned with Maine Early Learning Standards. The program focuses on school readiness through play-based learning, social skills development, and early literacy/numeracy. Classrooms are designed with learning centers, interactive technology, and developmentally appropriate materials. The program includes special education services, speech therapy, and occupational therapy support. Families appreciate the smooth transition to kindergarten and strong community partnerships.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Georgetown, ME
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Georgetown, ME, and how do I find them?
In Georgetown, your primary licensed options are Family Child Care (FCC) homes and potentially a Child Care Center. Given Georgetown's small, coastal community, FCC providers operating out of their homes are the most common. These are licensed for a smaller number of children and often offer a more home-like setting. There are no large commercial daycare chains in Georgetown itself. To find licensed providers, your best resource is the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Child Care Search tool online. You can filter by town, zip code (04548), and type of care. Additionally, connecting with local parent groups on social media or contacting the Georgetown Town Office can yield personal recommendations for both licensed and legally license-exempt providers.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare in Georgetown, and are there any financial assistance programs?
Costs in Georgetown are generally in line with regional averages for Sagadahoc/Lincoln counties. For a Family Child Care home, you can expect to pay approximately $180-$220 per week for full-time infant/toddler care and $160-$190 per week for preschool-aged children. Rates can vary based on the provider's experience, hours, and whether meals are included. For financial assistance, Maine's Child Care Subsidy Program helps eligible families. You apply through the Office for Family Independence (OFI). Also, many providers accept vouchers from the federal Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF). It's crucial to ask potential providers if they participate in these programs. Some local nonprofits may offer limited scholarships, so checking with the United Way of Mid Coast Maine is also advisable.
How long are waitlists for daycare in Georgetown, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited provider capacity in a small town like Georgetown, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It is not uncommon for popular FCC homes to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a move begin their search as early as possible—ideally during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and policy. Be prepared to put your name on multiple lists. Flexibility with your start date can sometimes improve your chances. Exploring providers in neighboring towns like Bath, Phippsburg, or Woolwich may also be necessary to find an opening.
What are Maine's key licensing requirements for daycare providers that I should verify as a parent in Georgetown?
All licensed providers in Maine, including those in Georgetown, must meet state standards set by DHHS. Key requirements you should confirm include: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios and Group Sizes:** For FCC homes, it's 1:4 for children under 3, with a max of 6 children under 13. 2) **Background Checks:** All household members over 12 in an FCC home must have cleared checks. 3) **Health and Safety Training:** Providers must be certified in CPR and First Aid. 4) **Health Inspections:** The home must pass fire, health, and safety inspections. 5) **Professional Development:** Providers must complete annual training. You can ask to see the provider's current license, which should be posted, and you can verify its status and any history of violations through the Maine DHHS website.
Are there any unique seasonal considerations for childcare in a coastal town like Georgetown, ME?
Yes, Georgetown's coastal and seasonal economy significantly impacts childcare. During the busy summer tourism and fishing seasons, some providers may adjust hours or have limited availability due to their own family commitments or an influx of seasonal residents seeking short-term care. Conversely, some providers may have more flexibility in the off-season (late fall and winter). It's important to discuss seasonal needs upfront if you work in a seasonal industry. Additionally, many Georgetown childcare programs emphasize outdoor play and nature-based learning, taking advantage of the town's beaches, woods, and trails. Ask providers about their outdoor policy and how they handle weather-related closures, especially during coastal storms or nor'easters in the winter.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Georgetown: