The Best Daycare Centers in Salisbury, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Salisbury. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Salisbury
Little Sprouts Early Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Early Learning Center is a NAEYC-accredited facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. Their curriculum emphasizes play-based learning with structured academic components, focusing on social-emotional development and school readiness. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees, low student-teacher ratios, and secure facilities with keypad entry systems. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their USDA-approved food program and maintain excellent health and safety protocols. The center is particularly noted for its engaging learning environments, experienced staff longevity, and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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The Goddard School of Salisbury
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Salisbury operates under the nationally recognized Goddard Systems framework, offering F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic learning with creative play. The facility features state-of-the-art classrooms, secure entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. The program emphasizes STEAM learning, literacy development, and social skills through hands-on activities. Parents appreciate the regular communication through the proprietary mobile app, modern facilities, and the school's commitment to individualized learning plans for each child's developmental needs.
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The Learning Center of Delmar
Independent
Located just across the state line in Delmar, Delaware, The Learning Center of Delmar serves families throughout the Salisbury metropolitan area with its comprehensive early childhood programs. The center utilizes Creative Curriculum with integrated technology components and emphasizes whole-child development. Their experienced teaching staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios and participates in continuous professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, secure entry systems, and modern learning environments. The center is particularly recognized for its inclusive approach, strong community partnerships, and flexible scheduling options that accommodate working families in the Salisbury region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Salisbury, MD
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Salisbury, MD, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Salisbury, the average cost for full-time infant care ranges from $180 to $250 per week, while toddler and preschool care typically costs between $160 and $220 per week. These rates can vary based on the center's accreditation, staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities. For financial assistance, Maryland's Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program is a primary resource for eligible families, administered through the Maryland State Department of Education. Additionally, local organizations like the Judy Center Partnership at specific Salisbury elementary schools may offer support and referrals. It's highly recommended to apply for the CCS early, as processing can take time, and to directly ask childcare providers if they offer any sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a childcare provider in Salisbury?
All licensed childcare providers in Salisbury must comply with Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Office of Child Care regulations. You can verify a provider's license and view their compliance history through the MSDE's public "Check Child Care" search tool online. This tool shows the license status, capacity, ages served, and any serious complaints or regulatory violations found during inspections. For a more in-depth look, you can visit the MSDE Office of Child Care's regional office that serves the Eastern Shore or contact them directly to request public files. Always ask to see a provider's current license during your tour, and don't hesitate to inquire about any violations you see online to understand how they were resolved.
What is the current waitlist situation for daycare centers in Salisbury, and how can I improve my chances of securing a spot?
Waitlists for infant and toddler care at highly-rated centers in Salisbury can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infants under 2. Popular centers affiliated with employers like TidalHealth or Peninsula Regional Medical Center may have even longer lists. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Get on multiple waitlists (even if there's a small fee), and follow up with a polite phone call or email every 2-3 months to confirm your interest remains active. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Salisbury's residential neighborhoods, which may have shorter wait times and offer a smaller group setting.
Are there any unique childcare options or programs in Salisbury that cater to nontraditional work schedules?
Yes, Salisbury offers some options for parents with shift work or irregular hours. While standard center hours are typically 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, several licensed family childcare providers offer more flexible or extended hours, including early mornings, evenings, and occasional weekend care. It's crucial to inquire directly about this flexibility. For true overnight care, options are extremely limited, but some in-home providers may offer it. Additionally, the "Child Care Aware of Maryland" resource and referral service for the Eastern Shore region can help identify providers who accommodate nontraditional schedules. For emergency or drop-in care, facilities are scarce, so building a network of backup care with trusted local providers or using occasional sitter services is often necessary.
What local resources in Salisbury can help me find and evaluate quality childcare?
Salisbury parents have several valuable local resources. The primary hub is the **Judy Center Partnership** located at specific Title I schools like Charles H. Chipman Elementary, which provides early childhood support and can help connect families with quality childcare options. **Child Care Aware of Maryland's Eastern Shore Local Department** offers free, personalized referrals and guidance on choosing quality care. For hands-on evaluation, use Maryland's **EXCELS** quality rating system; providers with higher ratings (Levels 3-5) have demonstrated higher quality standards. Finally, don't underestimate local parent networks on social media (like Salisbury, MD community Facebook groups) for firsthand recommendations and experiences with specific providers in the area.