The Best Daycare Centers in Westernport, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Westernport. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Westernport
The Goddard School of Frostburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Frostburg 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, STEM, art, and social development with highly qualified teachers who hold degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide daily communication to parents about their child's progress and activities. The school is known for its structured yet nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten success.
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Kiddie Academy of LaVale
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of LaVale provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that integrates character development, technology, and hands-on learning. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and surveillance cameras. Their degreed teachers implement age-appropriate lesson plans focusing on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills. The academy offers nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent-teacher conferences, and detailed progress reports. They emphasize creating a safe, stimulating environment that promotes cognitive, social, and emotional development through structured learning centers and purposeful play.
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Little Learners Child Development Center
Independent
Little Learners Child Development Center is a locally owned and operated facility serving the Westernport region with a play-based educational approach combined with structured learning activities. Their curriculum aligns with Maryland Early Learning Standards and includes daily literacy activities, math concepts, science exploration, and creative arts. The center features secure facilities with fenced playgrounds, certified teachers with CPR/first aid training, and small class sizes for individualized attention. They provide regular developmental assessments, parent communication through daily reports, and emphasize social-emotional learning. The center is particularly noted for its warm, family-like atmosphere and strong community connections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Westernport, MD
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Westernport, MD, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Westernport, as in all of Maryland, childcare providers must be licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Office of Child Care. This includes family childcare homes (caring for up to 8 children) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious compliance issues by using the free, online "LOCATE: Child Care" search tool on the MSDE website. This is a critical first step for parents in the Westernport area to ensure they are considering regulated and monitored options.
Given Westernport's rural location, what types of childcare options are typically available, and are waitlists common?
Westernport's rural setting in Allegany County means your primary options are licensed family childcare homes and smaller, home-based programs. Larger childcare centers are less common locally and may require travel to nearby towns like Frostburg or Cumberland. Due to the limited number of providers, waitlists are very common, especially for infants and toddlers. It is highly recommended to begin your search at least 6-9 months before you need care. Networking with other local parents through community groups or social media can provide leads on potential openings in home-based settings that may not be widely advertised.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Westernport, and are there any local or state financial assistance programs?
In the Westernport area, costs for full-time care are generally lower than the state average but can vary. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $125-$175 per week for a preschool-aged child. Infant care is typically more expensive. Financial assistance is available for eligible families through the Maryland Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program, which is administered by the MSDE. Your eligibility is based on income, work/training hours, and the reason for care. You can apply online, and the scholarship helps cover a portion of the cost at participating providers. Additionally, the Allegany County Department of Social Services can provide guidance on local resources.
How do seasonal factors and local industry in Westernport impact childcare availability and schedules?
Westernport's economy and environment create unique childcare considerations. The area has a history with seasonal industries and outdoor recreation tied to the nearby Potomac River and mountains. Some providers may have adjusted summer or holiday schedules. Furthermore, shift work common in remaining local industries or healthcare in Cumberland can make finding non-traditional hour care (evenings, weekends, overnights) a challenge. When interviewing providers, be very clear about your needed hours. Some family childcare homes may offer more flexible arrangements than a center. Planning for school closures (snow days are common in the mountains) and back-up care is also essential.
What should I look for during an in-person visit to a daycare in Westernport, and are there any community-specific resources for parents?
During a visit, look beyond the basics: observe how staff interact with children, check for safe, engaging outdoor play spaces (important in a rural area), and ask about their plan for inclement weather and emergency preparedness. Inquire about their approach to incorporating local experiences, like nature exploration. For community resources, connect with the **Allegany County Early Childhood Advisory Council** and the **Judy Center** (if one serves your area), which help coordinate early care and education services. The **Westernport Public Library** may also offer storytimes and parent connections. These local networks can be invaluable for recommendations and support.