The Best Daycare Centers in Andover, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Andover. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Andover
Bright Horizons at Andover
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Andover is renowned for its research-based World at Their Fingertips curriculum, which emphasizes whole child development through play, literacy, math, and science activities. The center employs highly qualified educators with degrees in early childhood education and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios for individualized attention. Safety is a top priority with secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and strict health protocols. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and provides nutritious meals. Parents consistently praise the strong communication, developmental milestone tracking, and inclusive environment that fosters social-emotional growth.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Andover
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Andover utilizes the F.L.EX.® Learning Program, blending academic readiness with play-based learning to develop literacy, STEM, and social skills. Teachers are trained in early childhood development and use hands-on activities in well-equipped classrooms and outdoor play areas. The center emphasizes safety with background-checked staff, secure facilities, and health screenings. Parents value the daily progress updates, parent-teacher conferences, and focus on creativity and independence. The nurturing environment and flexible scheduling options make it a top choice for families seeking balanced development.
Daycare Services:
Little Sprouts Early Education & Child Care - Andover
Little Sprouts, LLC
Little Sprouts in Andover follows a Reggio Emilia-inspired curriculum that promotes child-led, project-based learning through exploration and creativity. Educators facilitate development in language, cognitive, and motor skills using rich learning materials and natural outdoor spaces. The center maintains high safety standards with certified staff, low ratios, and rigorous cleanliness protocols. Nutritious meals and snacks are provided, supporting healthy habits. Families appreciate the strong sense of community, cultural diversity, and transparent communication, which have earned it high marks for parent satisfaction and child engagement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Andover, MA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Andover, MA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Andover, the average cost for full-time infant care in a licensed center typically ranges from $2,200 to $2,800 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $1,800 to $2,400 per month. Home-based family childcare is often more affordable, averaging $1,500 to $2,000 monthly. These rates are higher than the state average, reflecting Andover's high cost of living and quality of services. For financial assistance, Massachusetts offers the state-subsidized Child Care Voucher Program (also known as Income Eligible Child Care) through the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Eligibility is based on family size and income. Additionally, many Andover employers, especially in the tech and healthcare sectors along the I-495 corridor, may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). It's also worth contacting the Andover Family Center or the Community Services Department for information on local scholarships or sliding-scale options at specific providers.
How long are typical waitlists for highly-rated daycare centers in Andover, and when should I start my search?
Waitlists for the most sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Andover can be substantial, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant spots, which are in the shortest supply. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the first trimester of pregnancy or even before if you are planning. Many popular centers, such as those affiliated with the Andover Public Schools integrated preschool program or highly-rated private centers, have application cycles that open a full year in advance. For a September start, inquiries often begin the prior fall. Be proactive: tour multiple facilities, get on multiple lists (even if there's a fee), and follow up regularly. Exploring options in neighboring towns like North Andover or Tewksbury can also provide more availability.
What are the licensing and safety regulations for childcare providers in Andover, and how can I verify a provider's compliance?
All childcare providers in Andover must be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), which sets stringent standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program curriculum. Key regulations include background record checks (CORI/SORI) for all staff, mandatory training in CPR/First Aid, health and safety inspections, and ongoing professional development. You can verify a provider's license status, view their compliance history, and read any inspection reports (including violations and their resolutions) for free on the EEC's online **Licensing Child Care Search** tool. Simply enter the provider's name or location. When touring a facility in Andover, don't hesitate to ask for their current license and their most recent EEC inspection report. The Andover Fire and Health Departments also conduct regular inspections, which should be documented.
Are there unique childcare options in Andover that leverage local resources, such as nature-based or language immersion programs?
Yes, Andover offers several distinctive childcare options that utilize its community assets. Given the town's extensive conservation land and parks like Harold Parker State Forest, you can find nature-based preschools and daycares that incorporate outdoor learning and exploration into their daily curriculum. Additionally, due to the highly educated and diverse population, there are programs offering language immersion, particularly in Spanish and Mandarin. Some centers also integrate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) learning aligned with the local innovation economy. The Andover Public Schools system runs an integrated preschool program that includes peer models for children with and without disabilities, which is a highly regarded option. For school-age children, the Andover Community Services' "Andover Youth Services" and "Rec Kids" programs offer before/after-school care and enriching vacation camps.
What should I look for when touring a daycare facility in Andover to assess quality and fit for my family?
When touring daycares in Andover, go beyond the basics. Observe the **staff-child interactions**: Are teachers engaged at the children's level, speaking warmly and responding to needs? Check the **physical environment**: Is it clean, safe, well-lit, and with age-appropriate materials and dedicated outdoor play space? Inquire about **staff tenure**—low turnover indicates a positive work environment, which translates to stable care for your child. Ask about their **educational philosophy** (e.g., Montessori, Play-based, Reggio Emilia) and how it aligns with your values. Specifically for Andover, ask about their **communication protocols** (many use apps like Brightwheel), their policy on utilizing local resources like the Memorial Hall Library children's room or town playgrounds, and their plan for **snow days/delays** given New England weather. Finally, trust your instincts on the overall vibe and ask for references from current Andover parents.