The Best Daycare Centers in Georgetown, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Georgetown. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Georgetown
Bright Horizons at Salisbury
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Salisbury is a highly-regarded childcare center serving the broader Eastern Shore region, including Georgetown area families. The center implements the World at Their Fingertips curriculum, emphasizing STEAM learning, literacy development, and social-emotional growth. Features include degreed early childhood educators, low teacher-to-child ratios, secure facility access with electronic entry systems, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. The center offers nutritious meals and snacks, extensive outdoor play areas, and regular parent communication through the MyBrightDay app. Their NAEYC accreditation and Maryland EXCELS Level 5 rating demonstrate exceptional educational quality and commitment to early childhood development standards.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Center of the Eastern Shore
Independent
The Learning Center of the Eastern Shore has built an outstanding reputation over nearly two decades of service to families throughout the Georgetown area. The center focuses on play-based learning within structured environments, incorporating Creative Curriculum with Maryland Early Learning Standards. Key features include Maryland State Department of Education certified teachers, comprehensive security systems with camera monitoring, and spacious indoor/outdoor learning environments. The center emphasizes character development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness through hands-on activities and individualized learning plans. Parent satisfaction is exceptionally high due to their transparent communication, experienced staff retention, and commitment to creating a nurturing, educational atmosphere.
Daycare Services:
Children's Place Learning Center
Independent
Children's Place Learning Center serves families across the Eastern Shore with a comprehensive educational approach that balances academic preparation and social development. The center implements a research-based curriculum aligned with Maryland Early Learning Standards, featuring literacy-rich environments, math manipulatives, and science exploration areas. Notable strengths include highly qualified teaching staff with ongoing professional development, secure facility protocols with controlled access, and nutritionally balanced meal programs. The center offers diverse enrichment opportunities including music, movement, and foreign language exposure. Their Maryland EXCELS Level 4 accreditation and strong parent partnership model make them a top choice for Georgetown-area families seeking quality early childhood education in a safe, stimulating environment.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Georgetown, MD
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Georgetown, MD?
In Georgetown, MD, full-time daycare costs vary based on the type of facility. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month for infant care, and slightly less for toddlers, around $1,100 to $1,450 per month. Licensed family childcare homes in the area are often more affordable, typically ranging from $900 to $1,300 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that Maryland offers the Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program for eligible families, which can significantly offset these expenses. Always inquire about what is included in the tuition, such as meals, diapers, and enrichment activities.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Georgetown, and how can I secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers in Georgetown can be substantial, especially for infant rooms. It's not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. To secure a spot, we recommend starting your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. When touring facilities, ask specifically about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to join? How often do they update families on their position? Is the list by age group? Many parents in the area also secure spots by applying to multiple centers and considering a mix of centers and licensed family childcare providers, which may have shorter wait times. Staying in regular, polite contact with the center director can also be beneficial.
What are the key Maryland state licensing requirements I should verify when choosing a daycare in Georgetown?
All childcare providers in Georgetown must be licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Office of Child Care. Key requirements you should verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:3 for infants under 18 months, 1:6 for 3-year-olds), **Background Checks** for all staff, **Health and Safety Training** including CPR/First Aid certification, and **Annual Inspections** for compliance with fire, health, and safety codes. You can and should ask any provider for their most recent licensing inspection report, which is a public document. Additionally, you can use the MSDE's "Check for Child Care" online search tool to verify a provider's license status, capacity, and any history of serious violations.
Are there any unique local or community-based childcare resources or programs available to Georgetown families?
Yes, Georgetown and the broader Sussex County area offer several local resources. The **Delaware (and Maryland) Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency** is a fantastic starting point. They provide free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in your zip code. For school-age children, the **Georgetown Elementary School** may offer before/after-care programs. Additionally, local organizations like the **Georgetown Public Library** often host early literacy programs that can supplement childcare. For financial assistance, beyond the state CCS program, some local employers and community organizations may offer subsidies or partnerships with specific centers. Checking with the **Georgetown Town Hall** or community Facebook groups can also reveal smaller, home-based providers and nanny shares.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Georgetown?
An in-person tour is crucial. Beyond the general cleanliness and safety, focus on these Georgetown-specific and practical aspects: **Observe Interactions:** Watch how staff engage with children—are they attentive and on the floor playing? **Ask About Outdoor Time:** Given Georgetown's weather, ask about their policy for outdoor play in various conditions and inspect their playground safety. **Inquire About Communication:** How do they update parents (apps, daily sheets)? For a rural area like Georgetown, ask about their emergency preparedness plans for weather events. **Sample a Menu:** Ask to see a weekly meal/snack menu to ensure it meets your nutritional standards. Finally, trust your instincts about the overall vibe—does it feel like a warm, engaging, and secure environment where your child would thrive?