The Best Daycare Centers in Sunderland, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sunderland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sunderland
Calvert County Child Care Center
Calvert County Public Schools
Operated by Calvert County Public Schools, this center provides high-quality early childhood education with a structured curriculum aligned with Maryland State Department of Education standards. Features certified early childhood educators, low student-teacher ratios, and comprehensive developmental programs. The facility includes age-appropriate learning environments, secure outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal programs. Specializes in school readiness with emphasis on literacy, math, and social-emotional development. Serves families throughout Calvert County, including Sunderland area.
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The Goddard School of Prince Frederick
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Part of the nationally recognized Goddard School network, this facility offers F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and character enrichment programs. Modern facilities include dedicated infant rooms, preschool learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Serves Sunderland and surrounding Calvert County communities.
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Huntingtown Early Learning Center
Independent
Family-owned early learning center serving Calvert County families with comprehensive childcare services. Features Maryland EXCELS-rated programs with focus on developmental milestones and school readiness. The curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum approaches with hands-on learning activities, literacy development, and social skills building. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. Facility includes secure indoor learning environments, age-appropriate outdoor play spaces, and nutritional food service program. Known for strong parent communication and individualized attention to each child's developmental needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sunderland, MD
What are the typical costs for full-time infant daycare in Sunderland, MD, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Sunderland and the surrounding Calvert County area, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Prices can vary based on the type of provider (center vs. in-home) and the specific programs offered. For financial assistance, Maryland's Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on family income, work/school requirements, and the child's age. Additionally, the Calvert County Department of Social Services can provide guidance on local subsidies and may have information on specific providers in Sunderland who offer sliding scale fees or participate in the CCS program.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Sunderland?
All licensed childcare providers in Maryland, including those in Sunderland, are regulated by the Maryland State Department of Education's Office of Child Care (OCC). You can verify a provider's license and view their compliance history by using the free "LOCATE: Child Care" search tool on the MSDE website. This tool shows the license status, capacity, ages served, and any serious regulatory violations found during inspections. For in-home family childcare providers, you can also contact the Calvert County Child Care Resource Center for additional local insights and referrals to licensed providers in the Sunderland zip code area.
Are there many daycare centers with immediate openings in Sunderland, or should I expect to join a waitlist?
Due to Sunderland's more rural setting within Calvert County, the number of dedicated daycare centers within the town itself is limited. Many families utilize providers in nearby communities like Prince Frederick, Huntingtown, or Dunkirk. It is very common to encounter waitlists, especially for infant care and at highly-rated centers. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 6-9 months before you need care. Contacting providers directly and asking about their current waitlist length and policy (e.g., if a deposit is required to hold a spot) is crucial. Exploring both centers and licensed family childcare homes can increase your options.
What are some unique childcare options for school-age children in Sunderland during summer and school holidays?
Sunderland and Calvert County offer several options for school-age care beyond traditional daycare. The Calvert County Parks & Recreation Department operates popular summer camps and holiday break camps at various locations, which may include activities at nearby parks like Flag Ponds Nature Park. The local elementary schools often host or have information on enrichment programs. Additionally, organizations like the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons and the Annmarie Sculpture Garden in Solomons offer themed summer day camps that provide educational and recreational activities, though transportation from Sunderland would need to be arranged.
As a parent new to Sunderland, how can I find and evaluate in-home family childcare providers in the community?
A great starting point is the Calvert County Child Care Resource Center, which maintains a referral list of licensed family childcare providers. You can also use the state's LOCATE database and filter for "Family Child Care Home" in the 20689 zip code. When evaluating, schedule an in-person visit to observe the home environment, ask about the provider's experience, daily schedule, discipline philosophy, and emergency plans. Inquire about their network—many home providers collaborate for backup care. Talking to other local parents at community spots like the Sunderland Post Office or the nearby Solomons Island farmers market can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations specific to the area.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Sunderland: