The Best Daycare Centers in Barstow, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Barstow. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Barstow
The Goddard School of Prince Frederick
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Prince Frederick serves the Barstow area with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure keypad entry systems, and live streaming cameras for parent monitoring. Their play-based curriculum includes STEM activities, foreign language exposure, and yoga. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated art studios, and nutritionally balanced meal programs. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, cleanliness, and the developmental progress children make.
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Calvert County Child Care Center
Non-profit organization
This non-profit center serves Barstow families with a play-based developmental approach aligned with Maryland Early Learning Standards. The center employs degreed early childhood educators with an average of 8+ years experience and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Safety features include secured access, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness training. The curriculum emphasizes social skills, literacy development, and hands-on learning through centers. The facility features large outdoor play spaces, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and provides organic meal options. Parents highlight the nurturing environment and consistent communication.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Huntingtown
KinderCare Education LLC
This nationally accredited KinderCare location serves the Barstow community with research-based curriculum including Early Foundations® for infants and toddlers and Phonics Adventures® for preschoolers. The center features teachers with CDA credentials or higher, ongoing professional development, and low student-teacher ratios. Safety protocols include coded entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive health screening procedures. The facility includes dedicated learning centers, age-appropriate playgrounds with safety surfaces, and provides balanced meals. Parents consistently note the structured learning environment, experienced staff, and children's enthusiasm for attending.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Barstow, MD
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Barstow, MD, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Barstow, Maryland, all childcare providers caring for more than one unrelated child must be licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Office of Child Care. This includes family childcare homes and childcare centers. Licensed providers must meet strict standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the free "LOCATE: Child Care" search tool on the MSDE website or call the Office of Child Care at 1-877-261-0060. It's crucial to check this, as unlicensed care may not meet state safety standards. You can also view any past compliance reports and inspection findings through these resources.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Barstow, MD, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In the Barstow and surrounding Southern Maryland area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Family childcare homes may be slightly less, averaging $900 to $1,300 monthly. These costs are influenced by the program's hours, curriculum, and staff credentials. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the Maryland Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program, which is income-based. Additionally, the Charles County Department of Social Services (Barstow is in Charles County) can provide information on local subsidies. Many providers also offer sibling discounts, so be sure to inquire directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Barstow, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants and toddlers, waitlists at licensed daycare centers and highly-regarded family childcare homes in the Barstow area can be significant. It is not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long, particularly for infant rooms. We strongly recommend starting your search during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. When touring facilities, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee? How often is the list updated? What is the current estimated wait time for your child's age group? This proactive approach is essential in securing a spot.
What are some key factors to consider when choosing between a family childcare home and a daycare center in Barstow?
Your choice depends on your child's needs and your family's priorities. In Barstow, **Family Child Care Homes** (often in residential areas) offer a smaller, home-like setting with mixed-age groups, potentially more flexible hours, and a single caregiver, which can be great for consistency. **Child Care Centers** provide a more structured educational environment, multiple staff members, and often have larger facilities with dedicated outdoor play spaces. Consider your commute—centers may be located along major routes like US-301, while homes are in neighborhoods. Visit both types, check their MSDE licensing compliance history, and see which environment feels right for your child's socialization and learning style.
Are there any unique local resources or programs in Charles County that support parents in finding and evaluating childcare near Barstow?
Yes, a valuable local resource is the **Child Care Resource Network (CCRN)** operated by the Southern Maryland Tri-County Community Action Committee. While not based in Barstow, it serves all of Charles County. They offer free referrals to licensed providers, guidance on what to look for during a visit, and information on paying for care. You can contact them at (301) 274-4474. Additionally, the **Charles County Public Library** branches often host storytimes and early learning events, which can be a good way to meet other parents and get informal recommendations for local caregivers. Always cross-reference any referral with the official MSDE licensing database.
Nearby Cities
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