The Best Daycare Centers in Lusby, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lusby. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lusby
The Children's House of Calvert County
Independent
The Children's House of Calvert County offers a comprehensive Montessori-based educational program serving children from infancy through school age. The center features highly qualified Montessori-certified teachers who provide individualized learning plans tailored to each child's developmental needs. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, practical life skills, and academic preparation in a carefully prepared environment. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and modern safety systems. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing atmosphere, strong communication, and the visible developmental progress children make. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and focuses on fostering independence while building strong foundational skills.
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The Goddard School of Lusby
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Lusby provides a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. The center features state-certified teachers with ongoing professional development in early childhood education. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and social-emotional skills in purpose-built classrooms. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for art, music, and technology. Parents highlight the school's excellent communication through daily reports and the app, nutritious meal program, and the caring, experienced teaching staff that creates a warm, engaging learning environment.
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Calvert County Child Care Center
Calvert County Public Schools
Calvert County Child Care Center, operated by Calvert County Public Schools, serves families throughout Calvert County including Lusby residents. The center offers a comprehensive early childhood program aligned with Maryland State Department of Education standards. Their curriculum focuses on school readiness through play-based learning, literacy development, and social skills building. The facility features highly qualified early childhood educators, modern security systems, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. Parents appreciate the center's structured daily routines, experienced staff with low turnover rates, and seamless integration with the public school system. The center maintains excellent safety records and provides transportation options for school-age children attending local elementary schools.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lusby, MD
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Lusby, MD, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Lusby and the surrounding Calvert County area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs typically range from $1,000 to $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's Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program is a primary resource for eligible families, helping to subsidize costs based on income, family size, and need. Additionally, local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's recommended to contact the Calvert County Department of Social Services or the Maryland Family Network for personalized guidance on available subsidies.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Lusby, and what can I do to secure a spot sooner?
Due to high demand and limited center-based options in Lusby, waitlists for infants and toddlers at licensed facilities can often be 6 to 12 months long, especially for popular centers. For preschool-aged children, waitlists may be shorter, around 3-6 months. To improve your chances, it's advisable to get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. Consider expanding your search to nearby communities like Solomons, Prince Frederick, or Lexington Park. Also, explore licensed family childcare homes, which may have more immediate availability. Staying in regular, polite contact with providers can demonstrate your serious interest and sometimes move you up the list if a spot opens.
What specific licensing regulations and safety standards should I verify for a daycare provider in Calvert County?
All childcare providers in Lusby must be licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Office of Child Care. Key regulations parents should verify include: staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:3 for infants, 1:6 for 2-year-olds), background checks for all employees, mandatory health and safety training (including CPR/First Aid), and regular facility inspections. You can view a provider's licensing history, including any compliance reports, through the MSDE public search portal. Additionally, in Calvert County, providers must adhere to local health department codes. Look for providers that are also accredited by organizations like the Maryland EXCELS program, which indicates a higher quality standard beyond minimum licensing.
Are there any unique childcare options in Lusby that cater to families working at the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant or other local shift-work industries?
Yes, the unique 24/7 operational schedule of the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant and other local shift work has influenced childcare options in the area. While standard center hours are typically 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, some licensed family childcare homes may offer more flexible or extended hours to accommodate early mornings, evenings, or occasional overnight care. It's crucial to inquire directly about availability for non-traditional shifts. Networking with other plant employees can often lead to recommendations for providers familiar with this need. Additionally, some parents utilize a combination of a primary daycare and a backup in-home babysitter or nanny share to cover variable schedules.
What resources are available in Lusby to help me evaluate and choose between a daycare center and a family childcare home?
Lusby parents have several local resources to aid their decision. The **Calvert County Public Library** (Lusby branch) often has community bulletins and may host parenting resources. The most direct resource is the **Maryland Family Network's LOCATE: Child Care** service (1-877-261-0060), a free referral service that can provide lists of licensed centers and homes in your zip code, along with quality indicators. You can also contact the **Calvert County Child Care Advisory Committee** for general guidance. When evaluating, visit both types: centers often offer structured curricula and multiple staff, while family homes provide a smaller, home-like setting with mixed-age groups. Checking each provider's level in the **Maryland EXCELS** quality rating system is a highly recommended step.