The Best Daycare Centers in Arlington, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Arlington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Arlington
Arlington Children's Center
Arlington Children's Center
Arlington Children's Center is a highly-regarded nonprofit childcare facility known for its play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum. The center emphasizes social-emotional development through structured play and hands-on learning experiences. Staff members hold early childhood education degrees and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play spaces, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure entry systems. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, experienced teachers, and strong communication about child development progress.
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Bright Horizons at Arlington
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
As part of the nationally recognized Bright Horizons network, this center offers the World at Their Fingers curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, nutritious meal programs, and dedicated outdoor learning environments. Teachers hold bachelor's degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The center is particularly noted for its STEM-focused activities, literacy-rich environment, and comprehensive kindergarten readiness program that has prepared hundreds of local children for elementary school success.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Arlington
KinderCare Education
KinderCare's Arlington location provides a comprehensive early childhood education program built on their proprietary curriculum that addresses all developmental domains. The center features secure, age-specific learning environments with dedicated spaces for different age groups. Safety is prioritized with coded entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators who implement differentiated instruction to meet individual learning needs. Parents appreciate the center's consistent communication through daily reports and the strong emphasis on building foundational literacy and math skills through engaging, hands-on activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Arlington, MA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Arlington, MA, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Arlington, MA, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $2,200 to $2,800 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $1,900 to $2,500 per month. These rates are consistent with the higher cost of living in the Greater Boston area. For financial assistance, Massachusetts offers the state-subsidized Child Care Voucher Program (also known as financial assistance for child care) through the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Eligibility is based on family income, size, and need. Additionally, Arlington families can inquire about potential sliding-scale fees or scholarships directly with individual centers and family childcare providers. The Arlington Early Childhood Council is also a valuable local resource for information on affordability and support programs.
How long are typical waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Arlington, and what can I do to improve my chances of securing a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers in Arlington can be quite long, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant rooms which have stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is very common for parents to get on multiple waitlists during pregnancy or shortly after their child is born. To improve your chances, start your search and join waitlists as early as possible. Be proactive by contacting centers regularly (every 2-3 months) to express continued interest and update your information. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Arlington neighborhoods, as they may have more immediate availability and shorter lists. Also, explore centers in adjacent towns like Belmont, Lexington, or Medford to increase your options.
What are the key differences between a licensed daycare center and a licensed family childcare home in Arlington, and how do I verify their licensing status?
In Arlington, licensed daycare centers are facilities typically located in commercial or institutional buildings, caring for larger groups of children with multiple staff members. They often offer structured curricula and multiple classrooms by age. Licensed family childcare homes are operated out of a provider's residence, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group (up to 10 children, including the provider's own), which can offer a more home-like environment. Both are licensed and regulated by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). To verify licensing status, violations, or inspection reports, you can use the EEC's online "Search for Child Care" portal. You can also ask the program directly for their EEC license number and look it up. The Arlington Health Department also oversees local compliance for family childcare homes.
Are there any unique or highly-regarded public preschool programs available for 3- and 4-year-olds in Arlington, and how do I apply?
Yes, Arlington Public Schools (APS) operates the Thompson Elementary School, which houses the district's integrated public preschool program. This program serves both typically developing children and children with special needs in an inclusive setting. It is highly regarded but has limited space and gives priority to Arlington residents. Applications are typically available in the winter (January/February) for the following school year, with a lottery held if applications exceed available spots. There is a tuition cost for the typical learners, which is generally lower than private preschools. It's crucial to check the APS website for exact application timelines and procedures. Additionally, Arlington has several excellent private preschools, but the public program is a valued and affordable option for eligible families.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Arlington, and are there any local red flags specific to the area?
During a tour in Arlington, observe the cleanliness and safety of the facility, the interaction between staff and children, and the overall mood of the classroom. Ask about staff qualifications, turnover rates, and the center's philosophy. Specifically for Arlington, be sure to inquire about their outdoor play policy—given the New England weather, ask how often children go outside and if they have adequate, safe outdoor space or an indoor gross motor area for active play. A local red flag would be a provider who is not licensed by the MA EEC (always verify online). Also, due to Arlington's dense residential neighborhoods and traffic, ask about their drop-off/pick-up procedures to ensure they are safe and organized to prevent congestion. Check if they participate in the state's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS), which is a voluntary program indicating a commitment to higher standards.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Arlington: