The Best Daycare Centers in Perry, ME
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Perry. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Perry
Cobscook Community Learning Center
Cobscook Community Learning Center
Cobscook Community Learning Center offers a nature-based educational approach focused on hands-on learning and outdoor exploration. The center serves the Downeast Maine region including Perry, with qualified early childhood educators providing developmentally appropriate curriculum. Their program emphasizes environmental education, creative arts, and community involvement. The facility features extensive outdoor learning spaces, gardens, and nature trails. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and focus on social-emotional development through play-based learning in a supportive, inclusive environment.
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Happy Town Child Care & Learning Center
Happy Town Child Care
Happy Town Child Care serves the Perry area with a comprehensive early childhood program that combines structured learning with creative play. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, and social skills building. The center features certified early childhood teachers with ongoing professional development. Safety is prioritized with secure facilities, comprehensive background checks, and strict health protocols. They offer nutritious meal programs and maintain small class sizes to ensure individual attention. The program includes outdoor play areas and enrichment activities like music and movement.
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Sunrise County Children's Services
Sunrise County Economic Council
Sunrise County Children's Services provides high-quality early childhood education and care services to families throughout Washington County, including Perry. Their program follows research-based curriculum with emphasis on school readiness and comprehensive child development. Services include Early Head Start, child care partnerships, and family support. The organization employs degreed early childhood professionals and maintains rigorous safety standards. They focus on holistic child development including cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth. The program offers sliding scale fees and comprehensive support services for families in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Perry, ME
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Perry, Maine?
In Perry and the surrounding Washington County area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than the state average but can vary based on the type of care. A licensed family childcare home typically charges between $150 to $200 per week for an infant or toddler. A larger childcare center, which you would likely need to travel to a nearby town like Calais or Eastport for, may range from $180 to $250 per week. It's important to note that Maine offers childcare subsidy programs through the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for eligible families, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. Always inquire directly with providers for their current rates and ask if they accept state subsidies.
How can I find licensed and reputable childcare providers in or near Perry, given its rural location?
Due to Perry's small, rural nature, options within town limits are limited primarily to licensed family childcare homes. The best starting point is the State of Maine's online "Child Care Choices" search tool, which allows you to filter by location, age group, and type of care for all licensed providers. You can also contact the local Child Care Resource Development Center (CCRDC) for the Downeast region, which serves Washington County. They offer referral services and can provide guidance. Networking through local community groups, the Perry Baptist Church, or the Sipayik (Pleasant Point) community can also yield personal recommendations, which are invaluable in a close-knit area like this.
Are waitlists common for daycare spots in Perry, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for quality, licensed childcare in Washington County, including Perry. The limited number of providers means spots fill quickly. For infant care, which has the strictest staff-to-child ratios, it is strongly advised to start your search during pregnancy, ideally 6 to 9 months before you need care. For toddler or preschool-age spots, a 3 to 6-month lead time is recommended. When contacting providers, always ask directly about their current waitlist status, estimated timeline, and if there is a fee to be placed on the list. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances.
What specific state of Maine licensing regulations should I be aware of when evaluating a daycare in Perry?
All licensed providers in Maine must adhere to regulations set by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Key points for parents to verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 1 year, 1:5 for toddlers), **Maximum Group Sizes**, and **Staff Qualifications** including background checks and ongoing training in topics like CPR/First Aid and Safe Sleep for infants. Licensed providers are also subject to annual unannounced inspections; you have the right to ask to see their most recent licensing report. In Perry's family childcare homes, it's also wise to ask about their emergency evacuation plan given the area's rural setting.
What alternative or part-time childcare options exist in Perry beyond traditional full-time daycare?
Given the limited formal daycare centers, parents in Perry often utilize a mix of options. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** often offer more flexible part-time or drop-in arrangements. **Shared or Nanny Care** is another alternative, where families might jointly hire a caregiver; local community boards or online groups can help connect you. For preschool-age children, the **Perry Consolidated School** may offer pre-K programs, though availability varies by year. Additionally, seasonal or occasional care can sometimes be found through local high school or college students in nearby towns. Exploring options in neighboring Calais (about a 15-minute drive) significantly expands your possibilities for part-time preschools or Mother's Day Out programs.