The Best Daycare Centers in Kensington, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Kensington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Kensington
The Montessori School of Kensington
The Montessori School of Kensington
The Montessori School of Kensington provides authentic Montessori education in a carefully prepared environment. Their certified Montessori teachers guide children through hands-on learning experiences that foster independence, critical thinking, and social development. The school features mixed-age classrooms, natural materials, and individualized learning plans. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and emphasize practical life skills, sensorial development, and cultural studies. The facility includes spacious classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and gardens where children can connect with nature. Parents praise the school's nurturing environment and the development of confident, self-directed learners.
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The Goddard School of Kensington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Kensington offers a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development. All lead teachers have college degrees and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, multiple playgrounds, and dedicated spaces for music and movement. The school provides nutritious meals and snacks, and maintains excellent health and safety protocols. Parents consistently note the strong communication, engaging curriculum, and the caring, qualified teaching staff.
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KinderCare at Garrett Park
KinderCare Learning Companies
Located just minutes from Kensington in North Bethesda, this KinderCare center serves families throughout the area with their comprehensive early childhood education programs. Their research-based curriculum includes phonics-based reading readiness, math concepts, science exploration, and creative arts. The center features secure keypad entry, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and age-appropriate learning centers. Teachers are trained in early childhood development and maintain CPR/First Aid certification. The program includes regular parent-teacher conferences and developmental assessments. Families appreciate the consistent routines, engaging learning activities, and the center's commitment to safety and quality care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Kensington, MD
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Kensington, MD, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Kensington, MD, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,400 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $1,600 to $2,100 per month. These rates reflect the higher cost of living in Montgomery County. For financial assistance, parents can apply for the Maryland Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program, which is income-based and can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services offers resources and may have supplemental programs. It's also worth inquiring directly with centers about sibling discounts or sliding scale fees.
How long are typical waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Kensington, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded licensed daycare centers in Kensington can be substantial, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant rooms. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on multiple lists during pregnancy or as early as possible. To improve your chances, be proactive: schedule tours, complete all pre-registration paperwork promptly, and maintain communication with the center directors every few months. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Kensington and neighboring areas like Garrett Park or Silver Spring, which may have shorter wait times while still providing quality care.
What are the key differences between a licensed childcare center and a registered family childcare home in Maryland, and how do I verify their credentials in Kensington?
In Maryland, licensed childcare centers are larger facilities with multiple staff and classrooms, subject to strict regulations on staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and physical environment. A registered family childcare home operates in the provider's residence, caring for a smaller group of children (up to 8, with variations), often offering a more home-like setting. Both must meet state health, safety, and training standards. To verify credentials for any provider in Kensington, use the Maryland Office of Child Care (OCC) "Search for Child Care" online portal. This tool shows licensing status, inspection reports, compliance history, and any registered complaints—a crucial step before enrolling your child.
Are there any unique outdoor or enrichment programs offered by daycares in Kensington that take advantage of local amenities?
Yes, many Kensington daycares leverage the area's excellent parks and community resources. Several centers incorporate regular outings to local gems like Kensington Cabin Local Park or the Hoyles Mill Conservation Park for nature exploration. Enrichment programs are common and may include weekly sessions with external specialists for music, movement, or introductory Spanish. Furthermore, some providers partner with the nearby Kensington Park Library for story times. When touring facilities, ask specifically about their outdoor play philosophy and how they utilize the town's trails, parks, and the activities available at the Kensington Armory/Town Hall community center.
What are the state-mandated staff-to-child ratios for daycare in Maryland, and how can I ensure a center in Kensington is adhering to them?
Maryland has strict, age-based staff-to-child ratios. For infants (0-24 months), the ratio is 1:3. For toddlers (2-3 years), it's 1:6. For preschoolers (3-4 years), it's 1:10. These ratios are maximums; high-quality centers in Kensington often maintain better ratios. To ensure adherence, first check the provider's latest inspection report on the Maryland OCC website, which notes any ratio violations. During a tour, observe the classrooms and count the children and visible staff. Don't hesitate to ask the director directly about their typical ratios and how they manage staff breaks and absences without compromising these standards.
Childcare Insights for Kensington
Finding quality care for your newborn is one of the most significant and emotional decisions you will make as a new parent in Kensington. The search for "newborn daycare near me" in our community goes beyond just locating a facility; it's about finding a safe, nurturing, and stimulating extension of your home during those precious first months. Kensington, with its blend of suburban charm and proximity to Washington D.C., offers a variety of childcare options, but knowing what to look for specifically for an infant can help you navigate this important choice.
First, it's essential to understand that in Maryland, "newborn" or infant care typically refers to programs that accept babies as young as six weeks old. When researching centers in and around Kensington, prioritize those with a dedicated infant room and a very low caregiver-to-baby ratio. Maryland state licensing requires a 1:3 ratio for infants, but many high-quality centers in our area strive for an even lower ratio, such as 1:2, to ensure each baby receives ample individual attention. This personalized care is crucial for bonding, development, and meeting your newborn's unique schedule. As you visit potential daycares, from those near the Kensington Historic District to facilities just over the border in Garrett Park or Silver Spring, observe how caregivers interact with the infants. Are they speaking and singing to them? Is the environment calm and clean? Trust your instincts during these visits.
Given Kensington's location, many parents commute into D.C. or to the various federal and research institutions nearby. Therefore, considering a daycare's hours and policies around early drop-off or late pickup is a practical necessity. Ask about their sick policy and how they handle communication; a center that uses a detailed app to send you photos, feeding times, and diaper changes throughout the day can provide immense peace of mind while you're at work. Furthermore, inquire about their safety protocols, especially their plans for inclement weather, as this can affect your commute.
Don't overlook the value of local parent networks. Kensington has a strong, connected community. Seek recommendations from other parents at the Kensington Park Library, the local farmers' market, or neighborhood online groups. These firsthand accounts can be invaluable and may lead you to a wonderful licensed family childcare home, which are smaller, home-based settings that can offer a cozy alternative to larger centers. Whether you choose a center or a home-based provider, ensure they are licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education, which you can verify online. Finally, start your search early, as spots for infant care in desirable Kensington-area programs can fill up quickly. Taking the time to find the right fit will give you confidence that your newborn is in caring and capable hands, allowing you to transition back to work with greater reassurance.
Nearby Cities
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