The Best Daycare Centers in Oxon Hill, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oxon Hill. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oxon Hill
Kiddie Academy of Fort Washington
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Fort Washington provides comprehensive educational childcare with a proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure keypad entry systems, and daily communication with parents through an app. Their facility includes age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. The academy maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and has received strong parent satisfaction ratings for its structured yet nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.
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The Goddard School of Fort Washington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Fort Washington offers a play-based learning approach with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development. The school features state-certified teachers, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and bright, modern classrooms designed for different age groups. Their program includes foreign language exposure, yoga, music, and art enrichment. The center maintains small class sizes and low teacher-to-child ratios, with daily progress reports and parent communication. Their safety protocols include strict check-in/check-out procedures and comprehensive background checks for all staff.
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Sunshine Early Learning Center
Independent
Sunshine Early Learning Center is a locally-owned childcare facility serving Oxon Hill directly with a focus on holistic child development. The center uses Creative Curriculum® combined with Montessori-inspired activities to encourage independence and critical thinking. Their qualified teaching staff includes educators with degrees in early childhood development, and they maintain excellent staff retention rates. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate learning materials, outdoor play areas, and provides nutritious meals and snacks. Parents consistently praise the center's warm, family-like atmosphere and the individualized attention given to each child's developmental needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oxon Hill, MD
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Oxon Hill, MD, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Oxon Hill, Maryland, all childcare providers must be licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Office of Child Care. This includes family childcare homes, childcare centers, and nursery schools. Licensing ensures facilities meet standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), health and safety protocols, and physical environment. To verify a provider's license and view their compliance history, including any past violations, you can use the free, public MSDE "Check Child Care" search tool on their website. It's highly recommended to cross-reference this official record with in-person visits and references.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Oxon Hill, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
The average cost for full-time infant care in a childcare center in Oxon Hill and the broader Prince George's County area typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 per month. Family childcare homes may offer slightly lower rates, often between $900 and $1,400 monthly. Costs vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. For financial assistance, Maryland's Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program is a primary resource for eligible families, subsidizing costs based on income and need. Additionally, the Prince George's County Department of Social Services can provide guidance on local aid. Some employers in the National Harbor and DC metro area also offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Oxon Hill, and when should I start my search?
Due to high demand, especially for infant and toddler slots, waitlists for well-regarded daycare centers in Oxon Hill can be substantial. It's common for popular centers, particularly those near major employment hubs like National Harbor or with high-quality ratings, to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, sometimes longer for infants. We strongly recommend starting your search and getting on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. Be prepared to place non-refundable deposits on multiple lists. Exploring licensed family childcare homes can also provide more immediate availability.
Are there specific childcare options in Oxon Hill that cater to parents with non-traditional or shift work schedules?
Yes, while options are more limited, Oxon Hill does have providers that accommodate non-traditional hours. Some licensed family childcare homes offer evening, overnight, or weekend care to serve parents working in healthcare, hospitality (especially at National Harbor), security, or other shift-based jobs. A few larger childcare centers may offer extended hours, such as opening early at 6:00 AM or closing late at 7:00 PM. The most effective way to find these providers is to use the MSDE "Check Child Care" search tool and filter for "Hours of Operation," or to contact the Prince George's County Child Care Resource and Referral Center for personalized referrals based on your schedule needs.
What resources are available in Oxon Hill to help me evaluate and choose a quality daycare program?
Parents in Oxon Hill have several key resources. First, the **Maryland EXCELS** rating system is a voluntary quality rating and improvement system for licensed programs. A higher EXCELS rating (Level 1-5) indicates a commitment to quality beyond minimum licensing. Second, the **Prince George's County Child Care Resource and Referral Center** offers free counseling, referrals, and checklists for visiting programs. Third, local parenting groups on social media (e.g., Facebook groups for Oxon Hill/Prince George's County parents) are invaluable for firsthand reviews and recommendations. Finally, always schedule in-person tours, ask for references from current parents, and observe the classroom dynamic during your visit.