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.
Nearby Cities
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