The Best Daycare Centers in Huntingtown, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Huntingtown. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Huntingtown
The Goddard School of Huntingtown
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Huntingtown offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social development with highly qualified teachers who hold degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. What sets this center apart is their comprehensive approach to child development, including yoga instruction, foreign language exposure, and hands-on learning activities that prepare children for kindergarten and beyond.
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Celebree School of Huntingtown
Celebree Learning Centers
Celebree School provides a nurturing environment with their "Seven Domains of Learning" curriculum that addresses cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive camera monitoring. Their qualified educators implement project-based learning and focus on school readiness skills. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, spacious classrooms with natural lighting, and secure outdoor play spaces. Parents particularly appreciate their detailed daily communication through the Tadpoles app and their focus on building strong foundational skills.
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Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center offers a family-owned childcare experience with a strong emphasis on individualized attention and community values. Their curriculum combines Montessori-inspired activities with traditional early learning approaches, focusing on hands-on exploration and social development. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with experienced staff who receive ongoing professional development. Facilities include dedicated art and music areas, age-appropriate learning centers, and safe outdoor play equipment. What makes this center stand out is their commitment to creating a home-like atmosphere while providing structured educational programming and nutritious meal options prepared on-site.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Huntingtown, MD
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Huntingtown, MD, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Huntingtown and the surrounding Calvert County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs are generally between $1,000 and $1,400 per month. These rates can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum (e.g., Montessori), and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Maryland offers the Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program, which is income-based. Additionally, the Calvert County Department of Social Services can provide guidance on eligibility. Some local centers may also offer sibling discounts or flexible payment plans. It's advisable to inquire directly with providers about any current openings and their specific fee structures.
How can I verify if a daycare or home-based childcare provider in Huntingtown is properly licensed and what should I look for in their inspection records?
All licensed childcare providers in Huntingtown must be regulated by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Office of Child Care. You can verify a provider's license and view their compliance history by using the free "LOCATE: Child Care" search tool on the MSDE website. When reviewing a provider's record, pay close attention to the dates and results of their mandatory inspections. Look for any serious "non-compliance" items, which are violations of state regulations regarding health, safety, or child supervision. You can also contact the MSDE's Southern Regional Office, which oversees Calvert County, for additional information. Always visit the facility in person to observe the environment and ask the director about any past violations and how they were corrected.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Huntingtown, and what strategies can I use to secure a spot for my child?
Yes, waitlists are very common for reputable daycare centers and preschools in Huntingtown, especially for infant and toddler rooms. It is not unusual for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months or longer. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before your needed start date. Get on multiple waitlists at centers that meet your criteria. Follow up with a polite phone call or email every 2-3 months to express continued interest. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in the area, which may have more immediate availability and offer a smaller, home-like setting. Being flexible on your start date can also help.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in the Huntingtown area?
For families with children attending Huntingtown Elementary, Middle, or High School, there are several options. Many local daycare centers offer before and after-school programs that include transportation to and from these schools. The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation also operates the "RecZone" program, which is a licensed before/after-school care program held at various elementary schools, though availability at Huntingtown Elementary should be confirmed. Additionally, some local churches and community centers may offer care. These programs typically provide homework help, snacks, and recreational activities. It's crucial to register early, as these slots fill quickly at the start of the school year.
What unique factors should I consider when choosing between a larger daycare center and a family childcare home in a semi-rural community like Huntingtown?
Huntingtown's semi-rural character presents specific considerations. Larger centers often offer more structured curricula, multiple classrooms, and may have more resources for special activities. However, family childcare homes can provide a smaller, family-style environment with mixed-age interactions, which some parents prefer. A key factor is location and commute; a home-based provider might be closer to your residence, reducing drive time on rural roads. Also, inquire about emergency preparedness plans—given the area's potential for weather-related power outages or delays in emergency services response, understand their protocols. For family homes, verify they are licensed and have a backup provider. Finally, consider the provider's flexibility; a local home-based provider might be more accommodating for the irregular hours that can come with commuting to areas like Prince Frederick or across the Patuxent River.
Nearby Cities
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