The Best Daycare Centers in Bloomington, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bloomington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bloomington
The Learning Tree
Independent
The Learning Tree is a NAEYC-accredited facility offering comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach. They feature highly qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education and maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios. The curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities. Their facility includes secure indoor classrooms and outdoor nature-based play areas. They're known for strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, plus nutritious meal programs following USDA guidelines.
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Little Blessings Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
Little Blessings provides a faith-based educational environment with a balanced curriculum combining academic preparation and character development. Their qualified staff includes certified early childhood educators who implement Creative Curriculum with hands-on learning centers. The center features secure access control, comprehensive safety protocols, and age-appropriate learning environments. They emphasize individualized learning plans and regular developmental assessments. Parents consistently praise their warm, nurturing atmosphere and excellent communication about child progress.
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Garrett College Early Childhood Education Center
Garrett College
Operated by Garrett College, this center serves as a lab school for early childhood education students while providing high-quality childcare. They implement research-based curriculum with emphasis on developmental milestones and school readiness. The facility features observation rooms for parent viewing and student training, plus modern security systems. Staff includes master teachers with advanced degrees and ongoing professional development. Their program integrates nature exploration, literacy development, and social skills building in a structured yet flexible learning environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bloomington, MD
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Bloomington, MD, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Bloomington and the surrounding Garrett County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $175 to $250 per week, while toddler and preschool care may cost between $150 and $200 per week. These rates can be slightly lower than in more urban parts of Maryland. For financial assistance, Maryland's Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance requirements. Parents can apply through the Maryland Department of Education's Division of Early Childhood. Additionally, local providers may offer sibling discounts, and it's worth inquiring directly about any sliding scale fees.
How do I verify a daycare provider's license and inspection history in Bloomington, MD?
All licensed childcare providers in Maryland, including those in Bloomington, are regulated by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Office of Child Care. You can verify a license and view recent inspection reports online through the "Check Child Care" search tool on the MSDE website. This public database shows the provider's license status, capacity, ages served, and any compliance history, including citations. For in-home registered family childcare providers, you can request their registration certificate and contact the local Garrett County Child Care Resource Center for additional verification support.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Bloomington, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Bloomington, waitlists for infant and toddler spots can be common, especially at highly regarded centers or licensed family homes. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search at least 6 to 9 months before their needed start date, particularly for infant care. Many providers in Garrett County have limited capacity, so contacting them early to get on a list is crucial. Be prepared to put down a small deposit to secure a spot. For preschool-age children, availability may be more flexible, but starting your search 3-4 months in advance is still wise.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically in the Bloomington area?
In Bloomington and rural Garrett County, parents typically have three main options. First, **Licensed Child Care Centers**: These are fewer in number but offer structured programs, often in nearby towns like Oakland. Second, **Registered Family Child Care Homes**: This is a common option in Bloomington, where a provider cares for a small group of children in their own home, offering a more intimate setting. Third, **Informal Care**: This includes care by relatives, friends, or nannies, which is not licensed but often utilized in close-knit communities. Due to the rural setting, exploring options in neighboring communities like Swanton or Loch Lynn may be necessary to find the right fit.
How does the rural location of Bloomington, MD, impact access to childcare, and what resources are available to help parents search?
Bloomington's rural setting in Garrett County means fewer centralized childcare facilities and potentially longer travel distances to a provider. This can limit choices and increase the importance of finding care close to home or along your commute route. A key local resource is the **Garrett County Community Action Committee's Child Care Resource Center**. They maintain a referral list of licensed and registered providers in the county, offer guidance on choosing care, and provide information on the state Child Care Scholarship. They can be contacted directly for personalized assistance. Networking within the community through local Facebook groups or community boards can also be invaluable for discovering smaller, in-home providers.