The Best Daycare Centers in Owings, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Owings. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Owings
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Lusby provides high-quality early childhood education with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes social, emotional, and academic development. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) incorporates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities tailored to each age group. The school features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate curriculum with daily progress reports and parent communication. Facilities include age-appropriate playgrounds, bright classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated art and music areas.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Prince Frederick
KinderCare Education
KinderCare's Prince Frederick location offers comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum that focuses on literacy, math, science, and social skills development. Their program includes phonics-based reading readiness, hands-on math activities, and STEM learning opportunities. The center maintains rigorous safety protocols including secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive staff training in CPR and first aid. Highly qualified early childhood educators create individualized learning plans with regular assessment tracking. The facility features dedicated learning centers, outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment, and nutritious meal programs following USDA guidelines.
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Calvert County Child Care Center
Calvert County Public Schools
Operated by Calvert County Public Schools, this childcare center provides structured early learning programs aligned with Maryland's Early Learning Standards. The curriculum emphasizes school readiness through literacy development, social-emotional learning, and cognitive skill building. The center features highly qualified staff with early childhood credentials and ongoing professional development. Safety measures include comprehensive background checks, secure facility access, and health screening protocols. The program offers flexible scheduling options and maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family engagement events. Facilities include modern classrooms, outdoor learning environments, and developmentally appropriate learning materials.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Owings, MD
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Owings, MD, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Owings and the surrounding Calvert County area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while toddler care typically costs between $1,000 and $1,400 per month. Preschool programs often have slightly lower rates. These costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Maryland offers the Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program, which is income-based and can significantly reduce costs for eligible families. Additionally, Calvert County's Department of Social Services can provide guidance on local subsidies and the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit. It's highly recommended to apply for the CCS well in advance due to processing times.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a childcare provider in Owings?
All licensed childcare providers in Maryland, including those in Owings, are regulated by the Maryland State Department of Education's (MSDE) Office of Child Care. You can verify a provider's license and view their compliance history online through the MSDE's "Check Child Care" portal. This public database shows the license status, capacity, ages served, and any cited violations from routine inspections. For home-based family childcare providers in Owings, ensure they have a valid registration or license from MSDE. You can also contact the Calvert County Child Care Resource Center for additional support in evaluating providers. Always visit in person and ask the director for their most recent inspection report.
Are there many licensed in-home family childcare providers in Owings, and what are their advantages for a rural community?
Yes, licensed family childcare homes are a popular and vital option in Owings due to its more rural setting. They offer a home-like environment with smaller group sizes, often providing more flexible hours that can accommodate non-traditional work schedules common in the area. For families in Owings, a local in-home provider can mean shorter travel distances and a caregiver embedded in the community. These providers are licensed by MSDE for up to 8 children (depending on ages and assistants). To find them, use the MSDE "Check Child Care" search filtered by "Family Child Care Home" and zip code (20736), or seek referrals through local community boards or the Calvert County Public Library's parenting groups.
What is the current waitlist situation for daycare centers in Owings, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants and toddlers, waitlists at daycare centers in and around Owings can be significant. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer for infant rooms. We strongly recommend that expecting parents begin researching and touring facilities during their second trimester, and get on waitlists as soon as possible. For preschool-age children (3-5 years), looking 3-6 months in advance is advisable. Be sure to ask specific questions when touring: the estimated wait time, any non-refundable waitlist fees, and how often you should check in to maintain your spot. Exploring providers in nearby towns like Prince Frederick or Huntingtown may offer more options.
What types of outdoor and nature-based programming can I expect from childcare providers in Owings, given its proximity to parks and the Chesapeake Bay?
Many childcare providers in Calvert County, including Owings, leverage the natural environment as a key part of their curriculum. You can expect programs that include regular outdoor play in secured yards, nature walks, and gardening activities. Some centers and home providers may incorporate elements of "forest school" philosophy, with structured outdoor learning. Given Owings' location, some providers might organize occasional field trips (for older preschoolers) to local treasures like Flag Ponds Nature Park or Chesapeake Beach. When touring, ask about their daily outdoor play policy (Maryland licensing requires it weather permitting), if they have outdoor classrooms, and how they integrate local ecology into lessons. This focus on nature is a distinctive benefit of childcare in this region.
Childcare Insights for Owings
Finding reliable and nurturing childcare is one of the most significant decisions a family makes. If you're a parent in Owings, Maryland, searching for "childcare near me," you're likely seeking a place that feels like an extension of your home—a safe, engaging environment where your child can thrive. The good news is that the Owings community and the surrounding Calvert County area offer a variety of wonderful options, from licensed home daycares to larger centers, each with its own unique character. Your search begins with understanding what makes childcare in this specific part of Southern Maryland so special.
Owings provides a unique setting that blends a close-knit, rural community feel with access to the resources of Calvert County. Many local childcare providers take full advantage of this, incorporating nature-based learning into their programs. When you tour a potential daycare, ask about outdoor playtime and activities. Given our proximity to parks, farms, and the Chesapeake Bay, some providers may organize simple nature walks or have gardens for the children to tend. This connection to the environment is a cherished aspect of living here and can be a foundational part of your child's early education. Furthermore, the sense of community in Owings is strong; many providers are long-time residents who are deeply invested in the families they serve, often creating relationships that last for years.
As you begin your search, consider the practicalities of location and commute. While Owings itself has several home-based options, you may also look at reputable centers in nearby towns like Huntingtown, Prince Frederick, or Dunkirk. Think about your daily route to work—is it north toward Annapolis or south deeper into Calvert? Choosing a provider along your commute corridor can save precious time and reduce stress for your little one. It’s also wise to inquire about their protocols for local weather events, as our area can experience everything from summer thunderstorms to occasional winter weather that impacts travel.
Taking the next step involves more than just an online search. Start by checking the Maryland State Department of Education's website for licensed providers in the 20736 zip code and surrounding areas, reviewing their compliance history. Then, make phone calls to gauge responsiveness and schedule tours. When you visit, trust your instincts. Observe how the caregivers interact with the children—are they down on the floor engaging, or are they distant? Notice if the children seem happy and busy. Ask specific questions about daily routines, educational philosophy, and how they handle communication with parents. Many local providers in Owings operate with a family-like atmosphere, so don’t hesitate to ask for references from current families; your neighbors are often your best resource.
Remember, the right childcare fit is out there. By focusing on providers who understand the rhythm of life in Owings and who share your values for your child's growth and safety, you can find a partner in these important early years. This journey, while daunting, leads to the peace of mind that comes from knowing your child is in caring, capable hands within your own community.