The Best Daycare Centers in Princess Anne, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Princess Anne. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Princess Anne
Little Angels Learning Center
Independent
Little Angels Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility serving Princess Anne and surrounding communities. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with developmentally appropriate curriculum that focuses on social-emotional development, cognitive skills, and physical growth. The center features qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, maintains low teacher-to-child ratios, and provides nutritious meals. Their facility includes secure indoor classrooms and safe outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment. The center is known for its nurturing environment, strong parent communication, and commitment to creating a foundation for lifelong learning through play-based and structured educational activities.
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Kiddie Academy of Salisbury
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Salisbury serves families throughout Somerset County including Princess Anne with their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances education and character development. The academy features state-licensed teachers with ongoing professional development, secure keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their educational approach integrates STEM learning, literacy development, and social skills through hands-on activities. The facility includes modern classrooms, age-appropriate learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds. Parents consistently praise the structured yet nurturing environment, excellent communication through their mobile app, and the center's focus on preparing children for kindergarten success.
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The Goddard School of Salisbury
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Salisbury provides premium early childhood education to families in the Princess Anne area with their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program. The school employs degreed teachers who implement play-based learning while focusing on academic readiness and social development. Their curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and creative arts in purpose-built classrooms designed for optimal learning. The facility features secure entry systems, comprehensive safety protocols, and age-appropriate playgrounds. The school is renowned for its high-quality educational standards, excellent teacher retention, and strong emphasis on creating confident, curious learners through a balanced approach of structured and child-directed activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Princess Anne, MD
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Princess Anne, MD, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Princess Anne and the surrounding Somerset County area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $175 to $225 per week, while toddler and preschool programs typically cost between $150 and $200 per week. These rates are generally lower than the state average but reflect the local economic conditions. For financial assistance, Maryland's Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance requirements. Additionally, local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's recommended to contact the Somerset County Department of Social Services or the Judy Center at Princess Anne Elementary School for guidance on applying for subsidies and accessing other local support resources.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a childcare provider in Princess Anne?
All licensed childcare providers in Maryland, including those in Princess Anne, 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 "Check Child Care" search tool on their official website. This public database shows the provider's license status, capacity, ages served, and any cited violations from their last three inspection reports. For a more detailed review, you can also contact the MSDE's regional licensing office that oversees the Eastern Shore. Always ask to see a provider's current license during your visit, and don't hesitate to inquire about any past violations you find.
Are there many options for infant care (under 18 months) in Princess Anne, and what should I know about waitlists?
Infant care slots are the most limited and in-demand in Princess Anne due to stricter staff-to-child ratios mandated by Maryland law (1:3). There are a few licensed family childcare homes and potentially one or two center-based programs that offer infant care. Given the limited supply, it is crucial to start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or 6-9 months before your needed start date. Many providers in the area maintain waitlists. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their infant room capacity, the current length of their waitlist, and if they require a deposit to hold a spot. Exploring options in nearby towns like Crisfield or Pocomoke City may be necessary.
What types of childcare settings are most common in Princess Anne: centers, family homes, or pre-K programs?
Princess Anne, being a smaller rural town, primarily relies on licensed family childcare homes. These are private residences where a provider cares for a smaller group of children, often offering a more home-like environment and flexible hours that can suit agricultural or University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) community schedules. There are also a limited number of childcare centers, which may be affiliated with local churches or community organizations. For children ages 3-4, the most common structured program is the public pre-kindergarten offered through Somerset County Public Schools, often housed at Princess Anne Elementary School, which may have income or developmental eligibility requirements.
As a parent at UMES or working in agriculture, are there childcare providers in Princess Anne with extended or non-traditional hours?
Yes, recognizing the unique community needs of university students, staff, and shift workers in the agricultural sector, some local providers offer extended hours. Several family childcare homes may offer early morning (before 6:30 AM) or evening care (past 6:00 PM), and some may provide care on weekends, though this is less common. It is essential to inquire directly about hours and potential extra fees for non-standard times. The UMES student services office may also maintain a list of providers familiar with accommodating student class schedules. Be sure to discuss your specific weekly hour needs upfront, as flexibility can vary greatly between providers in this small community.
Childcare Insights for Princess Anne
Finding reliable childcare during the week is a challenge many families have navigated, but when the need arises on a Saturday or Sunday, the search can feel particularly daunting. For parents in Princess Anne, Maryland, seeking "weekend daycare near me" is a quest for flexibility and peace of mind, whether it's for work commitments, personal errands, or a much-needed date night. The good news is that options do exist, though they often require a bit more digging and planning than traditional weekday care.
In a close-knit community like Princess Anne, word-of-mouth is an invaluable resource. Start by asking other parents at your child’s school, local community centers, or even at the playground in Somerset Village. Often, the most trusted weekend care comes from smaller, home-based providers or nanny shares that aren't always listed in major online directories. Given the presence of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, another avenue to explore is connecting with responsible early childhood education students or university staff who may offer occasional weekend babysitting services. The local Facebook group for Princess Anne and Somerset County residents can also be a goldmine for personal recommendations and posts from caregivers offering weekend availability.
When evaluating potential weekend daycare options, consider the unique rhythm of our area. A provider familiar with Princess Anne will understand the community vibe and might incorporate local outings, like a stroll near the Teackle Mansion or a visit to the nearby Somerset County Library, into their day, weather permitting. It’s crucial to ask specific questions about their weekend schedule, including hours of operation, meal plans, and the planned activities. Since weekend care might involve mixed-age groups if siblings are present, inquire about how the provider manages different developmental stages in a more relaxed setting.
For families who need consistent weekend coverage, exploring a flexible arrangement with a trusted local babysitter or nanny might be the most practical solution. This allows for customization and continuity of care right in your own home. Be sure to discuss expectations clearly, including rates, which may differ from standard weekday pay due to the unconventional hours. If you're seeking a more structured center-based environment, it's worth calling the childcare centers in Salisbury or Pocomoke City, as some may offer occasional weekend slots or can refer you to staff members who provide private weekend care. Remember, planning ahead is key; weekend spots, especially those of high quality, fill up quickly.
Ultimately, securing weekend childcare in Princess Anne is about building connections within our community. It may take a few phone calls and conversations, but by tapping into local networks and being clear about your family’s needs, you can find a safe, engaging, and reliable option. This ensures your children are well-cared for, and you gain the precious time you need, all within the supportive fabric of our small town.