The Best Daycare Centers in Scarborough, ME
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Scarborough. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Scarborough
KinderCare Learning Center at Scarborough
KinderCare Education
This NAEYC-accredited center offers a comprehensive educational approach with research-based curriculum including phonics, math, science, and social skills. Features include dedicated infant rooms with individualized care plans, age-appropriate learning environments, and secure facilities with keypad entry. Teachers maintain state-required certifications and ongoing professional development. The center emphasizes play-based learning with structured activities that promote social-emotional development and school readiness. Outdoor play areas are designed for different age groups, and nutritious meals are provided daily.
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The Goddard School of Scarborough
Goddard Systems, Inc.
This FLEX Learning Program center focuses on academic readiness through play-based learning with STEAM integration. Features include secure facilities with electronic entry systems, daily communication apps for parents, and certified early childhood educators. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts with individualized learning paths. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and offers enrichment programs including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure. The facility includes multiple playgrounds designed for different developmental stages and comprehensive safety protocols.
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Little Learners Child Development Center
Independent
This locally-owned center provides a nurturing environment with a balanced curriculum combining structured learning and creative exploration. The program emphasizes social-emotional development, early literacy, and hands-on learning experiences. Features include certified early childhood educators, small class sizes, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and USDA-approved meal programs. The center focuses on individualized attention with regular progress reports and parent-teacher conferences. Outdoor learning spaces include nature exploration areas and age-appropriate playground equipment. The center maintains strong community connections and emphasizes character development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Scarborough, ME
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Scarborough, Maine, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Maine, all childcare providers caring for three or more unrelated children must be licensed by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Licensing ensures facilities meet standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. In Scarborough, you can verify a provider's license status and view any inspection reports through the online "Child Care Choices" portal managed by the state. It's highly recommended to check this database and even contact the local DHHS licensing specialist for the Southern Maine region to ask about a specific provider's compliance history.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Scarborough, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
The cost of childcare in Scarborough is generally in line with or slightly above the Cumberland County average. For full-time infant care, parents can expect to pay between $1,100 to $1,500 per month. Toddler care typically ranges from $950 to $1,300 per month. Costs vary based on the type of center, its amenities, and the age of the child. For financial assistance, Maine's Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP) helps eligible families. Additionally, local organizations like the Opportunity Alliance in nearby Portland can provide guidance, and some Scarborough centers may offer limited sliding-scale slots or sibling discounts.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Scarborough, and when should I start looking for infant care?
Waitlists for high-quality daycare centers, especially for infants, in Scarborough can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 18 months. It is strongly advised that expecting parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the first trimester of pregnancy. Some popular centers may even have a "pre-waitlist" before a child is born. Be sure to ask each center about their specific waitlist policy, including whether a deposit is required to hold a spot and how often you need to confirm your continued interest.
Are there unique childcare options in Scarborough that take advantage of the coastal environment?
Yes, Scarborough's coastal setting offers some unique childcare experiences. Several local home-based providers and centers incorporate nature-based learning, with regular outdoor play and exploration being a cornerstone of their curriculum. Some may organize age-appropriate beach walks, wildlife observation (like at the Scarborough Marsh), and lessons about local ecosystems. While not a formal "beach daycare," the natural environment is a key asset. Additionally, programs like those offered through the Scarborough Community Services Department include seasonal outdoor camps and activities that complement traditional daycare.
What should I look for when choosing between a licensed family childcare home and a larger center-based program in Scarborough?
The choice depends on your family's needs. Licensed Family Childcare Homes in Scarborough offer a smaller, home-like setting with mixed-age groups, often providing more flexible hours and potentially lower costs. They are ideal for parents seeking a consistent caregiver in a cozy environment. Center-based programs offer structured curricula, multiple staff members for redundancy, and often more extensive facilities and resources. In Scarborough, centers might have stronger connections to local schools for smoother transitions into pre-K. Visit both types, check their DHHS licensing records, and consider your child's temperament, your schedule, and the importance of peer interaction in your decision.
Childcare Insights for Scarborough
As the school year winds down, many parents in Scarborough find themselves facing the annual question: what are the best summer childcare options near me? The search for reliable, engaging, and safe care during the summer months is a priority for local families, and fortunately, the Scarborough community offers several wonderful avenues to explore. The key is to start your planning early, as popular programs in our area can fill up quickly once spring arrives.
One of the first places to look is right within our local recreation department. The Town of Scarborough offers fantastic summer day camps that are a cornerstone of seasonal childcare for many families. These programs often combine traditional camp activities with the convenience of a local schedule, potentially including field trips to Scarborough Beach or other nearby points of interest. They provide a structured day filled with sports, crafts, and social interaction, all within a familiar community setting. It’s advisable to check their registration dates, typically announced in early spring, and mark your calendar.
Beyond municipal programs, consider the variety of private daycare centers and home-based providers in Scarborough that offer extended summer schedules or specific seasonal programs. Many local centers transition to a summer camp-style curriculum, incorporating more outdoor play and themed weeks. When contacting these providers, ask specific questions about their daily summer schedule, how they handle trips to local parks like the Scarborough Marsh or Pine Point, and their policies on sunscreen and hydration during our beautiful, but sometimes intense, Maine coastal summers. A visit to the facility can give you a true sense of the environment and the staff’s enthusiasm for the season.
For parents seeking a more flexible or occasional solution, building a network with other Scarborough families can be invaluable. Forming a small, trusted babysitting co-op or arranging shared care with neighbors allows for consistency and can be more adaptable to changing summer plans. Additionally, many responsible high school and college students in the area are looking for summer nanny or babysitting positions. Local community boards, both online and at places like the Scarborough Public Library, can be good resources for finding candidates who understand the dynamics of our community.
Remember, the best summer childcare in Scarborough is one that aligns with your child’s interests and your family’s logistical needs. Whether it’s a camp focused on science, sports, or the arts, or a consistent home-based setting, the goal is to ensure your child has a summer filled with growth and joy. Take the time to research, make those calls, and trust your instincts about the fit. A little planning now can lead to a relaxed and memorable summer for your entire family, right here in our beautiful coastal town.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Scarborough: