The Best Daycare Centers in Acushnet, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Acushnet. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Acushnet
Bright Horizons at New Bedford
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at New Bedford offers a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on school readiness and developmental milestones. The center features NAEYC-accredited programs with experienced educators who hold early childhood degrees. Their World at Their Fingertips curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. Teachers maintain low child-to-staff ratios and provide regular progress updates to parents through digital communication platforms.
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Kiddie Academy of Dartmouth
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Dartmouth provides Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The center features state-certified teachers with ongoing professional development in early childhood education. Their approach includes STEM activities, literacy programs, and hands-on learning experiences. The facility includes secure keypad entry, indoor gymnasium, and outdoor learning environments. They offer enrichment programs in music, Spanish, and physical fitness, with comprehensive safety protocols and health monitoring systems.
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The Children's Workshop - Fairhaven
The Children's Workshop
The Children's Workshop in Fairhaven offers a play-based learning curriculum aligned with Massachusetts Early Learning Standards. The center employs degreed early childhood educators who implement Creative Curriculum with individualized learning plans. Their facility features secure monitoring systems, natural outdoor play spaces, and dedicated art/music rooms. The program emphasizes social-emotional development, early literacy, and kindergarten readiness skills. They maintain excellent staff retention rates and provide comprehensive parent communication through daily reports and family engagement events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Acushnet, MA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Acushnet, MA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Acushnet, as in all of Massachusetts, childcare programs must be licensed by the Department of Early Education and Care (EECC). This includes family childcare homes (in a provider's residence) and center-based programs. Licensing ensures facilities meet strict standards for health, safety, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/first aid), child-to-staff ratios, and curriculum. To verify a provider's license and view any inspection reports or compliance history, you can use the EECC's online search tool called the "Licensed Child Care Search." This is a crucial step for parents to ensure they are choosing a safe, regulated environment for their child.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Acushnet, and when should I start looking for infant care?
Waitlists for daycare, especially for infants (under 15 months), can be significant in Acushnet and the surrounding South Coast region. It is not uncommon for popular centers or highly-regarded family childcare providers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend that expecting parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their infant room availability timeline and their waitlist policy (e.g., if there's a fee to hold a spot). Exploring multiple options, including both centers and licensed family childcare homes, is key.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for a toddler in Acushnet, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
The cost of full-time childcare in Acushnet is generally aligned with statewide averages, which are among the highest in the nation. For a toddler, parents can expect to pay approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per month for a center-based program. Licensed family childcare may be slightly less, but costs still typically range from $900 to $1,300 monthly. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the state's Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA) program, administered by the Department of Early Education and Care. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts. We recommend contacting the Child Care Resource and Referral agency for the Southeast region, **The Child & Family Services' CCRR**, for personalized guidance on assistance and sliding scale options.
Are there any daycare or preschool programs in Acushnet that offer unique outdoor or nature-based learning?
Yes, Acushnet's semi-rural setting provides opportunities for nature-focused childcare. While not all programs have a formal "forest school" model, several local providers prioritize outdoor play and learning. Some family childcare homes with large yards and local centers may incorporate garden projects, nature walks, and extended outdoor time into their daily routines. When touring facilities, ask specific questions about their daily outdoor schedule, the design and safety of their play spaces, and how they integrate the natural environment into their curriculum. The nearby Acushnet Sawmill and the Acushnet River Valley area also inspire local programs to connect children with the region's natural resources.
What options exist for before- and after-school care for school-age children in the Acushnet Public School system?
For children attending Acushnet Elementary School (PreK-4) and Ford Middle School (5-8), the district itself operates the "Acushnet After School Program." This district-run program is a popular and convenient option, offering care on school days from dismissal until approximately 5:30 PM. It typically includes homework help, snacks, and recreational activities. Space can be limited, so early registration is advised. Alternatively, some licensed family childcare providers in town may also offer school-age transportation and care. For the most current information, schedules, and fees, parents should contact the Acushnet Public Schools Superintendent's office or the program coordinator directly at the start of the summer before the school year.
Nearby Cities
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