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.
Nearby Cities
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