The Best Daycare Centers in Ellerslie, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ellerslie. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ellerslie
Kiddie Academy of LaVale
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of LaVale is a highly-regarded educational childcare center serving the Ellerslie area with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum. The center focuses on character development, STEM education, and age-appropriate learning activities. Features include secure keypad entry, certified teachers with early childhood education credentials, nutritious meal programs, and modern classroom technology. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and offers comprehensive developmental assessments. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, safety protocols, and the genuine care shown by staff members.
Daycare Services:
Children's Learning Center
Children's Learning Center
Children's Learning Center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. The center features state-licensed teachers, secure monitored facilities, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy development, social-emotional learning, and kindergarten readiness. The facility includes dedicated outdoor play areas, on-site kitchen for nutritious meals, and extended hours to accommodate working families. The center is noted for its low staff turnover and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
Daycare Services:
Little Learners Child Development Center
Little Learners Child Development Center
Little Learners Child Development Center offers a balanced educational approach combining Montessori-inspired activities with traditional early learning standards. The center features certified early childhood educators, small class sizes, and individualized learning plans. Their program includes music and movement, arts integration, and hands-on science exploration. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The center is particularly praised for its inclusive environment and strong focus on developing social skills and independence in young children.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ellerslie, MD
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Ellerslie, MD, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Ellerslie and the surrounding Allegany County area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $175 to $250 per week, while toddler and preschool care typically costs between $150 and $220 per week. These rates are generally lower than the state average, reflecting the local cost of living. For financial assistance, Maryland's Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on family income, work/school requirements, and the chosen provider's participation in the program. Additionally, local providers may offer sibling discounts. It's highly recommended to contact the Allegany County Department of Social Services or the Maryland Family Network for personalized guidance on applying for subsidies.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Ellerslie is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All licensed childcare providers in Maryland are regulated by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Office of Child Care. You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history online through the MSDE's "Check Child Care" search tool on their official website. Simply enter the provider's name or location. This report will show their license status, capacity, ages served, and any serious regulatory violations or complaints found during inspections over the past three years. For a more personal touch, you can also call the Western Regional Office of Child Care, which oversees Allegany County, to ask specific questions about providers in the Ellerslie area.
Are there many in-home family childcare providers versus center-based options in Ellerslie, and what are the key differences for parents to consider?
Ellerslie, being a smaller community, has a mix of both, but in-home family childcare providers are a common and valued option, often offering more flexible hours and a home-like environment with mixed-age groups. Center-based options may require a short commute to nearby Cumberland or LaVale. Key differences include: Family childcare homes are typically smaller (serving up to 8 children), may be more flexible with schedules, and often have a single caregiver, fostering close bonds. Centers have larger staff teams, structured educational curricula, and often more resources and facilities. For Ellerslie parents, a family home may offer greater convenience and a neighborhood feel, while a center might provide a more formal preschool preparation. Both types must be licensed by MSDE.
What is the current waitlist situation for daycare in the Ellerslie area, and what strategies can I use to secure a spot?
Due to limited providers in the immediate Ellerslie area, waitlists for both family homes and centers in the broader region (Cumberland/Frostburg) can be significant, especially for infant care. It's not uncommon to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months. The best strategy is to start your search early, ideally during pregnancy. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, even if you're not 100% decided. Be proactive and check in every few months to express continued interest. Consider expanding your search radius to include neighboring towns. Building a relationship with a provider by visiting and communicating clearly about your needs can also be beneficial. Flexibility with your start date can sometimes move you up a list.
What are some locally-specific factors or resources for finding and evaluating childcare in Ellerslie and Allegany County?
A key local resource is the **Western Maryland Consortium Child Care Resource Center**, which serves Allegany County. They offer free referrals, parenting resources, and information on the Child Care Scholarship program. Given the rural nature of the area, transportation can be a consideration; some providers may not offer transportation, so proximity to home or work is important. Also, many local providers participate in the **Maryland EXCELS** quality rating system—looking for an EXCELS rating can help you identify programs committed to higher standards. For community-based insights, local Facebook groups (e.g., "Allegany County, MD Moms") and word-of-mouth recommendations from neighbors are invaluable for hearing firsthand experiences with providers in and around Ellerslie.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Ellerslie: