The Best Daycare Centers in Laurel, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Laurel. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Laurel
The Goddard School of Laurel
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Laurel offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The center emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. Parents appreciate the daily communication through the Goddard mobile app and the focus on preparing children for elementary school success.
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Kiddie Academy of Laurel
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Laurel implements the Life Essentials® curriculum, which focuses on character development, literacy, mathematics, and science through hands-on learning experiences. The center features secure keypad entry, sanitization protocols, and monitored classrooms. Their program includes technology integration, music and movement, and Spanish language exposure. Certified teachers create individualized learning portfolios for each child. The academy offers nutritious meals and snacks through their included meal program. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean facilities, and the center's commitment to creating a nurturing learning environment that supports whole-child development.
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Celebree School of Laurel
Celebree Learning Centers
Celebree School of Laurel provides the Seven Elements of Learning curriculum that emphasizes social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. Their approach combines structured learning with play-based activities in secure, technology-enhanced classrooms. The school features secure entry systems, camera monitoring, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their program includes early literacy development, mathematics readiness, and character education. Teachers are Maryland-certified and receive continuous training in early childhood education best practices. The center offers flexible scheduling and maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family engagement events. Families appreciate the warm, family-like atmosphere and the school's focus on building confidence and independence in children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Laurel, MD
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Laurel, MD, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Laurel, MD, the average cost for full-time infant daycare ranges from approximately $1,400 to $1,900 per month, while toddler care typically costs between $1,200 and $1,700 per month. These rates can vary based on the type of center (corporate chain, faith-based, or in-home), its amenities, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Maryland's Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program is the primary resource for eligible families, which is administered through the Maryland State Department of Education. Additionally, parents working or attending school in Prince George's County (where Laurel is located) can contact the local Child Care Resource Center for guidance on subsidies and sliding-scale fee programs offered by some non-profit centers in the area.
How long are typical waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Laurel, and what can I do to improve my chances of securing a spot?
Waitlists in Laurel can be significant, especially for highly-rated centers and infant rooms. It's common to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for popular facilities. To improve your chances, start your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before your needed start date. Be proactive: follow up with centers every 4-6 weeks to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Laurel's residential neighborhoods, which often have shorter waitlists and can provide excellent care. Utilizing the Maryland EXCELS website can help you identify and contact a broader range of licensed providers.
What are the key state licensing requirements and quality indicators I should look for when touring a daycare in Laurel?
All childcare providers in Laurel must be licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). Key requirements include background checks for all staff, specific staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:3 for infants, 1:6 for toddlers), and health/safety training. Beyond basic licensing, look for providers participating in Maryland EXCELS, a voluntary quality rating system. A higher EXCELS rating (Level 2 to 5) indicates a commitment to higher standards in curriculum, professional development, and environment. Also, ask about accreditation from national bodies like NAEYC. During a tour, observe cleanliness, child engagement, and ask about their curriculum philosophy, staff turnover rates, and their emergency procedures for situations like severe weather, which is relevant to Maryland's climate.
Are there specific daycare or preschool programs in Laurel that offer extended hours or accommodate non-traditional work schedules?
Yes, several options in Laurel cater to non-traditional schedules. Some larger corporate childcare centers offer extended hours from as early as 6:00 AM to as late as 6:30 or 7:00 PM. For shift work, weekends, or overnight care, your best bet is to search for licensed family childcare providers, as they often offer more flexible hours. You can use the MSDE Office of Child Care search tool and filter for "Hours of Operation." Additionally, certain centers near major employers like the NSA at Fort Meade or the Laurel Park racetrack may have experience with flexible scheduling. It's crucial to discuss your specific needs upfront, as these spots are limited and may require a premium rate.
What resources are available in Laurel to help me find and evaluate licensed childcare providers?
The primary resource is the Maryland Office of Child Care's online "Search for Child Care" tool, which allows you to filter by location (Laurel, 20707/20708/20723/20724), age group, and program type. It also shows licensing status and any compliance history. For personalized assistance, contact the **Child Care Resource Center** serving Prince George's County. They offer free referrals, guidance on choosing care, and information on subsidies. Local parenting groups on social media (like "Laurel, MD Moms") are also valuable for getting firsthand recommendations and reviews. Finally, check with the **Laurel Board of Trade** or the **City of Laurel's community services department** for lists of local businesses, which may include childcare providers.
Childcare Insights for Laurel
Finding the right childcare is one of the most significant decisions a family makes, blending practical logistics with the deep desire for a safe, nurturing environment for your child. If you're a parent in Laurel, Maryland, searching for "good daycares near me," you're in a community with diverse options, each with its own character and strengths. The process can feel overwhelming, but focusing on a few key local considerations can help you navigate your search with greater confidence.
Laurel's unique position, straddling the Baltimore-Washington corridor, means many families have specific needs related to commute patterns. A prime local consideration is proximity to major routes like Route 1, I-95, or the Baltimore-Washington Parkway. When researching daycares, inquire about their operating hours and flexibility; a center near your commute path with early opening or late closing times can be a lifesaver for parents working in DC, Baltimore, or at the nearby Fort Meade. Furthermore, Laurel's rich community feel is something to seek out in a childcare setting. Many excellent local centers participate in city events, like the Main Street Festival or visits to the Laurel Museum, integrating children into the fabric of our town. This sense of belonging is a subtle but valuable aspect of a quality program.
As you begin visiting facilities, look beyond the basics. Maryland’s Office of Child Care licenses all facilities, and you can easily check a center’s compliance history online—a crucial first step. When you tour, pay close attention to how staff interact with the children. Are they engaged at eye level? Is the atmosphere calm and happy? Given Laurel's diverse population, ask about how cultural inclusivity is woven into daily activities, from books and music to holiday celebrations. Don't hesitate to ask about outdoor play; a good daycare in Laurel will have a secure, stimulating outdoor space and will make use of our beautiful local parks for stroller walks when possible. Practical questions about their sick policy, security protocols for pick-up, and how they handle food for children with allergies are essential for your peace of mind.
Finally, trust your instincts and local networks. Some of the best insights come from other Laurel parents. Strike up conversations at the playgrounds at Granville Gude Park or the South Laurel Recreation Area, or seek recommendations in local community groups online. Often, the most reassuring feedback comes from firsthand accounts of a child's happiness and growth. Remember, a "good" daycare is one that feels like a true partner to you, where communication is open and your child’s individual needs are met with care and professionalism. Taking the time to visit, ask detailed questions, and observe will lead you to a place in Laurel where your child can thrive and you can feel assured, turning the challenge of the search into the comfort of having found a second home for your little one.
Nearby Cities
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