The Best Daycare Centers in Harrison, ME
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harrison. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harrison
The Children's Center at Bridgton Hospital
Central Maine Healthcare
This hospital-affiliated childcare center provides exceptional early childhood education with a strong focus on developmental milestones and health-conscious practices. The center features a comprehensive curriculum that includes STEAM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. All staff are certified in pediatric first aid and CPR, with lead teachers holding early childhood education degrees. The facility includes secure access systems, age-appropriate outdoor play spaces, and nutritious meal programs. What makes this center stand out is its integration with healthcare resources and focus on whole-child development in a nurturing, educational environment.
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The Sunshine House of Naples
The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy
Part of a respected regional chain, The Sunshine House offers a research-based curriculum called "Sunshine Approach" that focuses on school readiness through play-based learning. The center features secure keypad entry, live streaming for parents, and comprehensive safety protocols. Certified teachers implement age-appropriate lesson plans in literacy, math, science, and creative arts. The facility includes multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, indoor gross motor spaces, and dedicated learning centers. Their strong emphasis on parent communication and developmental tracking makes this center highly regarded in the Lakes Region area serving Harrison families.
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Raymond Village Church Community Daycare & Preschool
Raymond Village Church
This community-based daycare operates within a church setting but maintains a secular, inclusive educational program focused on nature-based learning and social development. The center emphasizes outdoor exploration with access to nearby natural areas and incorporates environmental education into daily activities. Small class sizes ensure individualized attention, with teachers trained in responsive classroom techniques. The program includes music enrichment, early literacy development, and hands-on learning experiences. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, experienced staff with low turnover, and strong sense of community that makes this center exceptional for families in the Harrison area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harrison, ME
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Harrison, Maine?
In Harrison and the surrounding Oxford County area, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of care. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $175 to $225 per week for an infant. Center-based care is less common directly in Harrison but available in nearby towns like Bridgton or Norway, where weekly rates can range from $225 to $300+ for infants. Toddler care is often slightly less expensive. It's important to note that Maine offers childcare subsidy programs through the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for eligible families, and some providers participate in the Child Care Affordability Program, which can help reduce costs. Always ask providers about their specific rates, any registration fees, and whether meals/supplies are included.
How can I find and verify licensed childcare providers in Harrison, ME?
The primary resource for finding licensed providers in Maine is the state's online "Child Care Choices" portal, managed by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services. You can search specifically for Harrison (04040) or nearby towns to see a list of licensed family childcare homes and centers. Each listing shows the provider's license status, capacity, and any compliance history. You can also contact the local Child Care Resource Development Center (CCRDC) for the Western Maine region for personalized referrals. In a small town like Harrison, word-of-mouth through local community groups, the town office, or the SAD 61 school district can also be invaluable for finding trusted, home-based providers who are properly licensed by the state.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Harrison, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, due to the limited number of providers in a rural town like Harrison, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care slots. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy, ideally 6 to 12 months before their needed start date. Many high-quality family childcare homes in the area may only have a few infant spots and maintain a consistent waitlist. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current availability and waitlist policy, including any deposit to hold a spot. Exploring options in neighboring communities such as Naples, Bridgton, or Casco can increase your chances of finding an opening sooner.
What are the key state licensing requirements for daycare providers that I should be aware of as a parent in Maine?
Maine has strict licensing rules to ensure child safety. Key requirements you can verify include: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios:** For children under 3 years old, the ratio is 1:4 in family homes and 1:4 in centers. 2) **Background Checks:** All staff and household members in a home daycare must pass comprehensive criminal history and DHHS background checks. 3) **Health and Safety:** Providers must have current CPR/First Aid certification, follow safe sleep practices for infants, and have emergency plans. 4) **Training:** Providers must complete annual training in topics like child development and recognizing child abuse. Licensed providers are regularly inspected. You have the right to ask any provider about their compliance with these Maine state regulations.
What alternative or part-time childcare options exist in Harrison beyond traditional full-time daycare?
Given Harrison's small, community-oriented setting, several alternatives exist. For part-time or occasional care, you might find: 1) **Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) Care:** A common arrangement, though it's crucial to ensure even informal caregivers understand safety standards. 2) **Preschool Programs:** The local SAD 61 district may offer public preschool for 4-year-olds, and private preschools in nearby towns often have half-day programs. 3) **Seasonal or Drop-in Care:** Some providers may offer flexible arrangements, especially for school-aged children during summer and school vacations. 4) **Nanny Shares:** Coordinating with another local family to share a caregiver can be a viable option in Harrison. Checking community boards at the Harrison Town Office, the local library, or the "Harrison Maine Community" Facebook group can help connect you with these less formal options.