The Best Daycare Centers in Arlington Heights, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Arlington Heights. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Arlington Heights
Bright Horizons at Arlington
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Arlington offers a research-based curriculum focused on school readiness and whole-child development. The center features highly qualified early childhood educators with bachelor's degrees and specialized training in early childhood development. Their World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional learning through hands-on activities. The facility includes secure entry systems, comprehensive safety protocols, and age-appropriate learning environments with both indoor and outdoor play spaces. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, experienced staff, and nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten success.
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The Children's Workshop - Lexington
The Children's Workshop
The Children's Workshop in Lexington serves Arlington Heights families with a comprehensive early childhood program that balances academic preparation and social development. Their curriculum incorporates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities alongside literacy and numeracy foundations. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, state-certified educators, and a secure facility with monitored access. Their program includes daily outdoor time in age-appropriate playgrounds, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent-teacher conferences. The center is particularly noted for its strong kindergarten readiness program and flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Primrose School of Arlington at Turkey Hill
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Arlington at Turkey Hill offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities within a structured curriculum. Their program emphasizes character development, literacy, and critical thinking skills through proprietary curriculum materials. The facility features secure keypad entry, certified teachers with ongoing professional development, and modern classrooms designed for optimal learning. The school offers enrichment programs including music, Spanish, and physical education. Parents consistently highlight the school's exceptional communication, clean and safe environment, and the noticeable academic and social progress children make while attending.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Arlington Heights, MA
What are the typical costs for full-time infant daycare in Arlington Heights, MA, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Arlington Heights, MA, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,400 per month, which is consistent with the higher cost of living in the Greater Boston area. Costs can vary based on the type of program (center-based vs. home-based), staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities. 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, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's highly recommended to contact the Arlington Heights Children's Center or other local providers directly to inquire about specific rates and potential openings in subsidized slots, as waitlists for both private and subsidized care can be long.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Arlington Heights is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All childcare programs in Arlington Heights must be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). You can verify a program's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations by using the EEC's online "Search for Child Care" portal. During an in-person tour, look for specific indicators of quality: a valid EEC license visibly posted, low staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:3 for infants, 1:4 for toddlers), clean and safe environments with child-proofed outlets and secured furniture, a schedule that includes both structured learning and free play, and engaged, warm interactions between staff and children. Ask about staff qualifications, turnover rates, their sick policy, and their philosophy on discipline and learning. Observing during active hours is crucial to get a true sense of the program's daily flow.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Arlington Heights, and when should I start my search for an infant spot?
Yes, due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Arlington Heights and the surrounding Arlington area can be very long, often 6 to 12 months or more. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the first trimester of pregnancy or even before conception if you are planning. Many popular centers, like those affiliated with local churches or the Arlington Public Schools integrated preschool, have application windows and lotteries. Don't limit your search to Arlington Heights alone; consider licensed family childcare homes in the neighborhood and centers in adjacent towns like Lexington or Belmont, but be prepared for similar waitlist challenges. Putting your name on multiple lists is a common strategy.
What options exist for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Arlington Heights, such as for parents with irregular work hours?
Finding traditional center-based care with part-time or truly flexible hours in Arlington Heights can be difficult, as most operate on a standard full-time, Monday-Friday schedule. Your best options for flexibility are typically licensed family childcare providers (home-based care), who may offer part-day, part-week, or even occasional drop-in care depending on their capacity. Another growing option is to use a reputable nanny share with another local family, which can offer more customized hours. For backup or occasional care, services like UrbanSitter or Care.com can help you find local babysitters. Additionally, some local preschools offer half-day programs for 3-5 year olds, which can be combined with other care. It's essential to communicate your schedule needs very clearly when interviewing any provider.
How does the Arlington Public Schools system integrate with preschool and pre-K childcare options in Arlington Heights?
The Town of Arlington (which includes Arlington Heights) offers a public Integrated Preschool Program for children ages 3-5. This is a part-day program typically running 2.5 hours, either in the morning or afternoon, located at the Stratton Elementary School. It is a tuition-based program that also includes children with special needs, creating an inclusive environment. Spots are limited and filled through a lottery system, with applications usually due in the winter for the following fall. This program is an excellent option for pre-K education but does not provide full-day childcare. Many families use the public preschool in combination with a private daycare or family childcare provider for extended hours, a model often called "wrap-around care." You need to coordinate the schedules and transportation between the two providers independently.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Arlington Heights: