The Best Daycare Centers in Dhs, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Dhs. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Dhs
The Goddard School of Gaithersburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Gaithersburg offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Their play-based curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and includes STEAM learning, language arts, and social-emotional development. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms with natural lighting, and multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents praise the consistent communication through daily reports and the school's focus on individualized attention for each child.
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KinderCare at Washingtonian Center
KinderCare Learning Companies
This highly-rated KinderCare location serves the Dhs area with a research-based curriculum that focuses on whole-child development. Their approach includes literacy-rich environments, hands-on learning centers, and structured activities that build critical thinking skills. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs educators with Child Development Associate credentials or higher. Safety features include keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The facility offers nutritious meals and snacks through their included food program and features both indoor gross motor spaces and outdoor playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment.
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Celebree School of Rockville
Celebree Learning Centers
Celebree School of Rockville provides a well-rounded educational experience with their "Seven Domains of Learning" curriculum that addresses cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development. The school emphasizes character development and school readiness through structured learning centers and hands-on activities. All lead teachers hold Maryland Early Childhood Credentials and participate in continuous training. The secure facility features classroom webcams for parent viewing, modern learning materials, and spacious outdoor play areas with safety surfaces. Parents consistently note the warm, nurturing environment and the center's effective communication about their child's daily activities and developmental progress.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Dhs, MD
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Dhs, MD, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Dhs, Maryland, all childcare centers and family daycare homes must be licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Office of Child Care. This licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program curriculum. You can verify a facility's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the free online "LOCATE: Child Care" search tool provided by MSDE. It's highly recommended to review these reports, as they detail any past violations and confirm the provider is operating legally in Prince George's County.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Dhs, MD, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Dhs and the surrounding Prince George's County area, the average cost for full-time infant daycare in a center typically ranges from $1,400 to $1,800 per month. Family childcare homes may be slightly less, averaging $1,100 to $1,500 monthly. Costs vary based on the program's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. For financial assistance, Maryland offers the Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program, which helps eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance. You can apply through the Maryland Department of Human Services. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Dhs, and how far in advance should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, waitlists are very common for daycare centers in Dhs, especially for infant and toddler rooms, which have stricter child-to-staff ratios. High-demand centers in neighborhoods near federal agencies, like the FDA in White Oak, often have the longest waitlists. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists at least 6 to 12 months before your needed start date. For infant care, starting your search during pregnancy is not uncommon. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length and estimated timeline for openings.
What are some key factors to consider when choosing between a daycare center and a family childcare home in Dhs?
Your choice depends on your child's needs and your family's priorities. **Daycare Centers** in Dhs (like those in the Downtown or Hollywood areas) often offer structured curricula, multiple classrooms by age, and larger peer groups. They may have more resources and stricter adherence to MSDE regulations. **Family Childcare Homes** provide a home-like setting, often with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings, and typically offer more flexible hours. They may have a smaller child capacity, leading to more individualized attention. Consider your child's temperament, your schedule, and visit both types to get a feel for the environment, staff, and safety protocols specific to the provider.
What resources are available in Dhs to help me find and evaluate quality childcare options?
The primary local resource is the **Prince George's County Child Resource Center (CRC)**, which is part of the Maryland Family Network. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in Dhs and the county, parenting workshops, and guidance on what to look for during a visit. You can contact them by phone or online. Additionally, use the state's **LOCATE: Child Care** database to search by zip code (e.g., 20737 for Dhs) and filter by program type, hours, and accepted subsidies. For evaluations, always schedule in-person tours, ask for references from current parents, and look for providers participating in Maryland's **Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS)**, which indicates a commitment to exceeding basic licensing standards.
Nearby Cities
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