The Best Daycare Centers in Kents Hill, ME
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Kents Hill. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Kents Hill
The Goddard School of Augusta
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Augusta is a premier early childhood education center located just 10 minutes from Kents Hill. They offer a play-based learning approach with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Features include state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, low student-teacher ratios, secure keypad entry systems, and daily communication with parents through their proprietary app. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, sign language for infants, Spanish exposure, and character development programs. Their facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, bright classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated art and music spaces.
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Little Learners Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Little Learners Preschool & Childcare in nearby Readfield serves the Kents Hill community with a nature-inspired, play-based curriculum. The center emphasizes outdoor learning with a large natural playground and regular nature exploration activities. Their educational approach combines Montessori principles with Maine's Early Learning Standards, focusing on hands-on learning and child-led discovery. Staff members hold early childhood certifications and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features separate infant and toddler rooms, a dedicated preschool classroom, and secure entry systems. Parents consistently praise the warm, family-like atmosphere and the center's commitment to individualized attention for each child.
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Creative Kids Childcare
Independent
Creative Kids Childcare in Manchester provides comprehensive early childhood education services to families in the Kents Hill area. Their curriculum emphasizes creative arts integration alongside academic foundations, with dedicated art studios and music programs. The center maintains small class sizes and employs experienced educators with backgrounds in early childhood development. Safety features include comprehensive security systems, strict pick-up protocols, and regular safety drills. Their program includes organic meal options, extensive outdoor play areas, and transportation services for school-age children. The center is known for its inclusive environment and strong community partnerships with local schools and organizations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Kents Hill, ME
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in and around Kents Hill, Maine?
In the Kents Hill area, which is part of the town of Readfield in Kennebec County, parents typically have access to three main types of licensed childcare. First, there are Family Child Care (FCC) providers, who operate out of their homes and are licensed for a smaller number of children, offering a more intimate setting. Second, there are Child Care Centers, which are larger facilities; the nearest centers are often located in nearby towns like Augusta, Winthrop, or Manchester. Finally, there are Nursery Schools or Preschool programs, which may offer part-day or school-year schedules. Due to Kents Hill's rural nature, Family Child Care is a very common and valued option locally. All providers must be licensed by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), which ensures they meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and program activities.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Kents Hill, and is there any financial assistance available?
Costs for full-time childcare in the Kents Hill area vary by provider type and the child's age. For an infant in a licensed Family Child Care home, you can expect to pay approximately $180 to $220 per week. For a toddler or preschooler, rates might range from $160 to $200 per week. Child Care Centers in nearby larger towns tend to be at the higher end of that range or slightly above. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the Maine Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP), administered by the Office of Child and Family Services (OCFS). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). We highly recommend contacting the local Child Care Resource Development Center (CCRDC) at 1-800-322-1008 for personalized help with applications and to find providers who accept subsidies.
Are waitlists common for daycare providers in Kents Hill, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for both in-home providers and centers in the Kents Hill region, reflecting a broader shortage of childcare slots in rural Maine. For infant care, which has the strictest staff-to-child ratios, waitlists can be particularly long—often 6 to 12 months. For toddler and preschool spots, you might encounter waitlists of 3 to 6 months. It is strongly advised to begin your search as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. To start, use the State of Maine's online "Child Care Search" tool, and be prepared to contact multiple providers, get on multiple waitlists, and check back periodically.
What should I look for when visiting a potential daycare provider in a rural area like Kents Hill?
When visiting a provider in Kents Hill, beyond standard checks for cleanliness and safety, consider factors unique to a rural setting. First, inquire about their emergency preparedness plan, including protocols for severe weather, power outages, and medical emergencies given potentially longer emergency response times. Ask about their outdoor play philosophy and space, as access to nature is a great asset here. For Family Child Care homes, understand the provider's backup plan if they are sick, as there may not be a large staff to cover. Always verify their current Maine DHHS license is posted and ask about staff qualifications and ongoing training. Finally, discuss their policy on school closures/delays for the local Regional School Unit (RSU 38/MSAD 38) if you have older children, to ensure alignment.
Are there any unique local resources or networks for parents seeking childcare in the Kents Hill community?
Absolutely. A key local resource is the **Kennebec Valley Community Action Program (KVCAP)**, which serves Kennebec County and includes a Child Care Resource Development Center. They offer referral services, help with subsidy applications, and support for providers. For direct community networking, the **Readfield Community Facebook Page** and other local parent groups on social media are invaluable for getting personal recommendations and hearing about potential openings in unadvertised home-based programs. Additionally, connecting with other parents at the **Readfield Post Office**, **Marancook Community Church**, or community events can yield leads. For early childhood education programs, the **Marancook Elementary School** may have information about pre-K partnerships or recommendations for preschool readiness programs in the area.