The Best Daycare Centers in Mardela Springs, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Mardela Springs. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Mardela Springs
The Goddard School of Salisbury
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Salisbury offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness while developing social, emotional, and physical skills. Their state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and dedicated play areas. Highly qualified teachers implement developmentally appropriate curriculum with low student-teacher ratios. The school emphasizes STEAM learning, literacy development, and character education, with daily communication provided to parents through their proprietary app.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Experience - Salisbury
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Salisbury provides a comprehensive early education program with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, mathematics, and social skills development. The center features modern security systems, bright and engaging classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Their programs include enrichment activities like yoga, soccer, and dance. The highly trained staff maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and focuses on preparing children for kindergarten success through structured learning and play-based activities.
Daycare Services:
Hebron Children's Academy
Independent
Hebron Children's Academy provides quality childcare with a strong emphasis on Christian values and academic preparation. Their curriculum focuses on early literacy, mathematics, science exploration, and social development through hands-on learning activities. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-specific learning centers, and safe outdoor play areas. Experienced teachers create nurturing environments with small class sizes and individualized attention. The academy offers flexible scheduling options and maintains excellent communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Mardela Springs, MD
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Mardela Springs, MD?
In Mardela Springs and the surrounding Wicomico County area, parents typically have three main licensed options. First, there are licensed family childcare homes, which are smaller, home-based settings often run by a single provider, ideal for a more intimate environment. Second, there are childcare centers, which are larger facilities with multiple staff and classrooms; the nearest centers are likely in nearby Salisbury. Third, there are registered exempt providers, often relatives, who care for a limited number of children from a single family. All providers must be licensed or registered through the Maryland State Department of Education's Office of Child Care (MSDE OCC), which sets standards for health, safety, and curriculum. Due to Mardela Springs' rural nature, family childcare homes are a common local option, while centers may require a commute.
How can I check the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Mardela Springs?
Maryland provides a transparent public tool called "LOCATE: Child Care" managed by the MSDE. You can access this database online to search for any licensed provider in Mardela Springs or Wicomico County. The report will show the provider's current license status, capacity, ages served, and any compliance history, including the dates and results of recent inspections and any cited violations. It's crucial to review this for any patterns of non-compliance. You can also call the MSDE OCC regional office for the Eastern Shore for additional context. Always verify licensing during your search, as unregulated care is a risk.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Mardela Springs area, and are there financial assistance programs?
Costs can vary significantly. For a licensed family childcare home in Mardela Springs, you might expect to pay between $150 to $225 per week for full-time infant care. A center in Salisbury could range from $225 to $325 per week. These rates are generally lower than Maryland's urban centers but are a significant portion of local household income. For financial assistance, Maryland's Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, work/training status, and the child's age. You apply through the Maryland Family Network website. Additionally, some local employers or Wicomico County social services may have referral programs or subsidies.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Mardela Springs, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common, especially for infants and toddlers, due to limited slots and stricter staff-to-child ratios. In a smaller community like Mardela Springs, the number of licensed providers is limited, making availability tight. For a family childcare home with only a few infant spots, you may encounter a waitlist. For centers in Salisbury, waitlists of 6 to 12 months are not unusual for infant rooms. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search and make inquiries at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a deposit to secure a future spot.
What are some local resources or organizations that can help me find and evaluate childcare in Wicomico County?
Your best local resource is the **Maryland Family Network (MFN)**, which operates a regional Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) center. You can call their statewide LOCATE line at 1-877-261-0060 for free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in Mardela Springs and Wicomico County. They can also guide you through the Child Care Scholarship application. Additionally, the **Wicomico County Health Department** and the **Judy Center** at nearby elementary schools (if applicable for school-readiness programs) may offer support and information. For evaluations, beyond the MSDE licensing database, consider asking providers for parent references from within the community.