The Best Daycare Centers in Ewell, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ewell. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ewell
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare in Salisbury provides a comprehensive early childhood education program serving families in the Ewell area. The center utilizes a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through play-based learning. All teachers meet Maryland state qualifications with ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Parent communication includes daily reports and regular conferences. The center stands out for its structured learning environments, nutritional meal programs, and flexible scheduling options for working families.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Salisbury offers a premier early childhood education program serving the Ewell community with a F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic readiness and creative exploration. The program emphasizes STEAM learning, language development, and social skills through hands-on activities. All faculty hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility includes secured classrooms, interactive whiteboards, and age-specific playgrounds. The school is distinguished by its focus on individual development tracking, parent engagement portals, and enrichment programs including yoga and foreign language exposure.
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Somerset County Early Learning Center
Somerset County Public Schools
Somerset County Early Learning Center in Princess Anne provides high-quality childcare and early education services to families in Ewell and surrounding areas. The center implements a developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Maryland Early Learning Standards, focusing on cognitive, physical, and social development through structured and free-play activities. Staff includes certified early childhood educators and specialists in special education. The facility features secure access, modern classrooms, and outdoor learning environments. The center excels in its community integration, culturally responsive teaching practices, and comprehensive support services including health screenings and family resource coordination.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ewell, MD
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Ewell, Maryland?
In Ewell and the surrounding Somerset County area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than the state average but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $125 to $175 per week. For a center-based program, weekly rates typically range from $150 to $225. These costs are influenced by factors like the provider's experience, program inclusions (meals, curriculum), and the age of your child (infant care is often the most expensive). It's important to ask what the weekly fee includes and if there are additional costs for supplies, registration, or late pick-up fees. Maryland also offers the Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program for eligible families, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
How do I verify that a daycare provider in Ewell is properly licensed and what should I look for during an inspection visit?
All licensed childcare providers in Maryland are regulated by the Maryland State Department of Education's (MSDE) Office of Child Care. You can verify a provider's license status, view their compliance history, and read any inspection reports online through the MSDE's "Check Child Care" public search portal. When visiting a potential daycare in Ewell, look for the license certificate posted in a visible area. During your tour, ask to see the most recent inspection report and note the provider-to-child ratios, cleanliness and safety of the environment (especially important in older homes common in Ewell), the availability of outdoor play space, and the overall engagement of the staff. Also, ask about their emergency plans for events like severe coastal weather.
Are there any unique childcare options in Ewell that take advantage of the local environment?
Yes, Ewell's location on Smith Island in the Chesapeake Bay offers some unique childcare perspectives. Some family childcare providers or small programs may incorporate local culture and environment into their daily activities. This could include age-appropriate lessons about the Bay, water safety (a critical topic for the area), local wildlife, and even simple crab or fishing-themed crafts. Given the tight-knit, small-town community, many providers offer a home-like atmosphere with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. However, due to the remote island location, formal center-based options are extremely limited, making registered family childcare homes the primary option. Planning ahead is essential due to limited availability.
What is the waitlist situation like for daycare in Ewell, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to Ewell's very small population and limited number of providers, securing a childcare spot can be challenging and often requires significant advance planning. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before their needed start date. Many licensed family homes in Ewell may only have capacity for 4-8 children total, so waitlists are common and can be lengthy. When contacting providers, be prepared to ask specific questions: Is there a waitlist? How long is it typically? Is there a fee to be on the list? Be proactive and get on multiple lists if possible. Networking within the local community can also be invaluable for hearing about potential openings.
What resources are available for parents in Ewell who need help paying for childcare or finding available providers?
The primary resource for financial assistance is the Maryland Child Care Scholarship (CCS), administered by the Maryland Family Network. Eligibility is based on income, work/school requirements, and the child's age. You can apply online. For finding providers, the MSDE "Check Child Care" website is the official database. Additionally, the regional resource for Somerset County is the **Judy Center Partnership** (serving Somerset County Public Schools), which may offer early childhood information and support. Given Ewell's isolation, also consider contacting the **Somerset County Health Department** and the **Somerset County Library** (Crisfield branch) for local bulletins or community boards where in-home providers might advertise. Word-of-mouth remains one of the most effective tools in this close-knit island community.