The Best Daycare Centers in Shady Side, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Shady Side. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Shady Side
The Goddard School of Edgewater
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Edgewater 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 qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. What sets this center apart is their focus on STEAM learning, daily communication with parents through the proprietary Goddard app, and comprehensive safety protocols including background-checked staff and regular safety drills.
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KinderCare at Annapolis
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Annapolis provides a research-based curriculum that focuses on whole-child development through structured learning centers and hands-on activities. Their program includes phonics-based reading readiness, early math concepts, and social-emotional learning. The center features secure keypad entry, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Teachers maintain low child-to-staff ratios and participate in ongoing professional development. The center stands out for their nutritious meal program, inclusive environment, and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Celebree School of Edgewater
Celebree Learning Centers
Celebree School of Edgewater offers a comprehensive Seven Domains of Learning curriculum that encompasses social-emotional, physical, cognitive, language, literacy, mathematics, and creative arts development. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including secure entry and surveillance, along with bright, well-equipped classrooms and outdoor learning environments. Their teachers are Maryland-certified and receive ongoing training in early childhood education best practices. The school distinguishes itself through their "Roots of Learning" approach that builds strong foundations for future academic success, personalized learning plans for each child, and strong community partnerships with local elementary schools.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Shady Side, MD
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Shady Side, MD, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Shady Side and the surrounding southern Anne Arundel County area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while toddler and preschool programs often range from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. These costs are influenced by factors like the type of facility (in-home vs. center-based), 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 can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs based on income and need. Additionally, parents working in certain sectors or attending school should inquire with individual providers about potential discounts or sliding scale fees. It's also advisable to check with the Anne Arundel County Department of Social Services for localized support initiatives.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a childcare provider in Shady Side?
All licensed childcare providers in Maryland, including those in Shady Side, 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 by using the free, public **"LOCATE: Child Care"** search tool on the MSDE website. This tool allows you to search by provider name, location, or zip code (such as 20764 for Shady Side) and will show the license status, capacity, ages served, and any cited violations from recent inspections. For family childcare homes, which are common in more residential areas like Shady Side, ensuring they have an active MSDE license is crucial. You can also call the Office of Child Care at (410) 767-7800 for additional verification.
Given Shady Side's more rural and peninsular location, what are the most common types of childcare available, and are waitlists a significant issue?
Shady Side's community character means in-home family childcare providers are a prevalent and popular option, often offering a smaller, home-like setting. There are also several licensed childcare centers and preschools in the broader area, including neighboring communities like Deale, Lothian, and Edgewater. Due to the limited number of facilities directly in Shady Side proper, waitlists can be a significant challenge, especially for infant care spots, which are in highest demand. It is highly recommended for parents to begin their search and get on waitlists at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. Building a network with other local parents through community groups or social media can also provide leads on upcoming openings in smaller, home-based settings.
Are there childcare options in Shady Side that accommodate the schedules of parents who work in fishing, boating, or other early morning maritime industries?
Yes, this is an important consideration for the Shady Side community. While standard center hours (e.g., 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM) are common, some in-home family childcare providers may offer more flexible or earlier start times to accommodate nontraditional work schedules common in the area. When interviewing providers, be explicit about your required drop-off and pick-up times. Some providers may offer care as early as 5:30 AM for an additional fee. It's also worth exploring smaller, licensed home-based providers who may be more willing to create customized arrangements. Networking with other families in the maritime industry can help identify providers already accustomed to these schedules.
What should I look for in a childcare provider regarding emergency preparedness, particularly for Shady Side's unique flood and storm risks?
Given Shady Side's location on a peninsula, emergency plans for flooding, severe storms, and power outages are critical. When touring a facility, directly ask about their written emergency preparedness plan. A reputable provider should be able to detail evacuation routes (including alternatives for flooded roads), shelter-in-place procedures, communication protocols for parents during emergencies, and how they handle extended power outages (e.g., backup generators for sump pumps or heating/cooling). Inquire about how they practice these drills with the children. Providers should also have a clear plan for early closure or delayed opening due to inclement weather and how that is communicated. Choosing a provider with a robust plan demonstrates a commitment to safety tailored to the local environmental risks.