The Best Daycare Centers in Naples, ME
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Naples. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Naples
Naples Community School
MSAD 61
Naples Community School operates a highly-regarded early childhood program within the MSAD 61 school district. The program focuses on developmentally appropriate practices with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and kindergarten readiness. Certified early childhood educators maintain low student-teacher ratios and implement structured curriculum aligned with Maine's Early Learning Standards. The facility features dedicated preschool classrooms, secure entry systems, and integrated outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the program's nurturing environment, qualified staff, and strong communication between teachers and families.
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Creative Kids Early Learning Center
Independent
Creative Kids Early Learning Center is a locally-owned facility serving the Naples area with comprehensive early childhood programs. The center implements a research-based curriculum that blends structured learning with creative exploration, focusing on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities. All lead teachers hold early childhood certifications and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor playgrounds, and comprehensive safety protocols including electronic entry systems. The center is noted for its nutritious meal program, regular developmental assessments, and strong parent partnerships through daily communication and family engagement events.
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Windham Early Childhood Center
RSU 14
Located in nearby Windham (approximately 15 miles from Naples), Windham Early Childhood Center serves families throughout the region with a highly-regarded public preschool program. The center employs certified early childhood specialists and special education teachers who implement an inclusive, developmentally appropriate curriculum. The program emphasizes social skills, literacy development, and school readiness through hands-on learning centers and structured activities. The facility features purpose-built classrooms, therapeutic spaces, and secure outdoor learning environments. The center is particularly noted for its inclusive approach, serving both typically developing children and those with special needs through integrated classrooms and specialized support services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Naples, ME
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Naples, Maine?
In Naples and the surrounding Lakes Region of Maine, daycare costs vary based on the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from $220 to $280 per week. For a family childcare home, which is often more prevalent in smaller communities like Naples, costs might be slightly lower, averaging $180 to $240 per week. These rates are generally in line with Maine's average, which is often more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas. It's important to note that costs can be higher for specialized programs or those with very low child-to-staff ratios. Parents should also inquire about what is included in the weekly fee (e.g., meals, diapers, wipes).
How do I find and verify licensed childcare providers in Naples, ME?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare in Maine is the state's official website, **Maine.gov/childcare**. Here, you can use the "Search for Child Care" tool to find licensed centers and family childcare homes in Naples (04055) and nearby towns like Casco and Bridgton. Licensing is managed by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). When you find a provider, you can verify their license status, review their compliance history, and see their licensed capacity and age ranges. For local recommendations, the **Cumberland County Community Services** office and local parent groups on social media (e.g., Facebook groups for Naples/Bridgton parents) can be valuable resources.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Naples, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are a common challenge in Naples and the broader Lakes Region due to the limited number of providers serving a seasonal and year-round population. For infant spots, which are the most limited due to strict staff-to-child ratios, it is strongly advised to begin your search **6 to 12 months** before you need care. For toddler or preschool-age children, a lead time of 3 to 6 months is more common but not guaranteed. Many providers in the area maintain waitlists, and it's wise to get on multiple lists. The demand often increases in the summer with seasonal residents and workers, so planning for fall enrollment is particularly competitive.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in Naples?
For school-age children attending Songo Locks Elementary School or Lake Region Elementary School (which some Naples children may attend), structured before and after-school programs can be limited directly in Naples. However, several options exist. Some licensed family childcare homes offer school-age care and provide transportation to and from the local schools. The **Lake Region YMCA** in nearby Casco often runs popular before and after-school programs that may include bus transportation from the schools. Additionally, exploring programs through the **Naples Town Office** or community center for seasonal activities is recommended. Coordination with other parents for shared care is also a common practice in this community.
What state-specific regulations and quality indicators should I look for when touring a daycare in Maine?
Maine has specific licensing rules set by DHHS. Key regulations to ask about include: **staff-to-child ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers), **staff qualifications** (lead teachers should have or be working toward a Child Development Associate credential or higher), and **background checks** for all employees. A strong quality indicator is whether the program is participating in Maine's **Quality for ME** rating system, a voluntary program that assesses and improves early childhood education. Also, look for providers who are **Maine Roads to Quality** registered, as this indicates professional development. For health and safety, ensure they follow Maine's immunization requirements and have clear plans for outdoor play in the varied seasonal weather.