The Best Daycare Centers in Marriottsville, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Marriottsville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Marriottsville
The Goddard School of Eldersburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Eldersburg offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts, delivered by degreed teachers in state-of-the-art classrooms. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and comprehensive safety protocols. What sets this center apart is their emphasis on STEAM learning, daily communication with parents through the Goddard mobile app, and their commitment to developing confident, joyful learners through play-based exploration and structured academic preparation.
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Celebree School of Eldersburg
Celebree Learning Centers
Celebree School of Eldersburg provides a comprehensive educational childcare experience with their proprietary "Seven Domains of Learning" curriculum that addresses cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, low student-teacher ratios, and modern security systems including electronic entry and surveillance. Their program emphasizes character development, literacy enhancement, and school readiness skills. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms, spacious preschool classrooms, and secure outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise their transparent communication, nutritious meal program, and the genuine care shown by staff members.
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The Learning Experience - Ellicott City
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Ellicott City offers a sophisticated early education program featuring their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum and enrichment programs including phonics, foreign language, and manners. The center boasts highly trained educators, advanced security systems, and bright, engaging classrooms designed to stimulate young minds. Their approach balances academic preparation with character development through their "Happiness Program." The facility includes separate playgrounds for different age groups, on-site kitchen providing nutritious meals, and dedicated art and music spaces. Parents particularly appreciate their regular progress updates, flexible scheduling options, and the center's focus on preparing children for elementary school success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Marriottsville, MD
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Marriottsville, MD, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Marriottsville and the surrounding Howard County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,600 to $2,200 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs are slightly lower, averaging $1,300 to $1,800 per month. These rates are influenced by factors like the center's accreditation, staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities. 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, Howard County offers the "Child Care Subsidy Program" for county residents, which can help bridge the gap for middle-income families. It's highly recommended to apply for these programs early, as funding can be limited.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare center or home-based provider in Marriottsville?
All licensed childcare providers in Marriottsville are regulated by the Maryland State Department of Education's Office of Child Care (OCC). The best way to verify a provider's status and history is to use the state's online **"Check Child Care"** search tool on the MSDE website. This public database allows you to search by provider name, location, or zip code (like 21104) to view their current license status, capacity, ages served, and any past inspection reports, including citations and compliance history. You can also contact the OCC's regional licensing office for Central Maryland for further details. Always ensure the provider's license is current and review any noted violations before enrolling your child.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Marriottsville, and what's the best strategy for securing a spot?
Yes, due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants and toddlers, waitlists are very common at licensed daycare centers in Marriottsville and throughout Howard County. It's not unusual for wait times to be 6 to 12 months, or even longer for highly sought-after centers. The best strategy is to start your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. Be proactive: follow up with centers every 2-3 months to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in the area, which may have more immediate availability and offer a smaller setting.
What are the options for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Marriottsville?
While many centers prioritize full-time enrollment, you can find part-time and flexible options in Marriottsville. Several local daycare centers offer 2, 3, or 4-day-a-week programs, typically for preschool-age children. For more flexibility, licensed **family childcare homes** are often more accommodating with custom schedules, including half-days or specific days of the week. Another growing option is utilizing **drop-in childcare centers** located in nearby towns like Ellicott City or Columbia, which can be useful for occasional needs. Additionally, consider joining local parent networks on social media (e.g., Marriottsville/Howard County Facebook groups) to find nanny shares or babysitting cooperatives, which can offer highly customizable care.
What outdoor and enrichment activities can I expect from daycare programs in the Marriottsville area, given its semi-rural setting?
Marriottsville's location near Patapsco Valley State Park and its semi-rural character allow many local childcare programs to incorporate unique outdoor and enrichment activities. You can expect centers with dedicated outdoor play areas that often include nature-based elements like gardens, trails, and natural play structures. Many programs emphasize "nature play," with regular outdoor exploration time. Enrichment activities frequently include visits from local farm educators, programs focused on local wildlife, and activities tied to the agricultural heritage of Western Howard County. Some centers may also offer specialized programs like introductory music, movement, or yoga, often brought in by local instructors. When touring, ask specifically about their daily outdoor time policy and how they utilize the local environment in their curriculum.
Nearby Cities
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