The Best Daycare Centers in Berkley, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Berkley. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Berkley
Bright Horizons at Raynham
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Raynham offers a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on school readiness and whole-child development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through hands-on learning. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with natural lighting. Parents appreciate the regular communication through daily reports and the nutritious meal program. The center serves families throughout the Berkley area with flexible scheduling options.
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Kiddie Academy of Raynham
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Raynham provides a structured educational program with their Life Essentials curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The center features state-certified teachers with ongoing professional development and maintains small class sizes for personalized attention. Their technology-enhanced learning environment includes interactive whiteboards and developmentally appropriate learning stations. Safety protocols include secure keypad entry, comprehensive background checks, and real-time parent communication through the mobile app. The academy offers enrichment programs in music, Spanish, and physical education, serving many Berkley families with their comprehensive early childhood programs.
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The Goddard School of Raynham
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Raynham offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that promotes academic, social, and physical development. The school features highly educated faculty with bachelor's and master's degrees in early childhood education. Their purpose-built facility includes secure classrooms, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and specialized learning centers for STEM, literacy, and creative arts. The program emphasizes play-based learning with structured academic components, including phonics, mathematics, and science exploration. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, safety measures, and the visible developmental progress in their children. The school serves the Berkley community with extended hours and flexible scheduling options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Berkley, MA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Berkley, MA?
In Berkley and the surrounding Bristol County area, full-time daycare costs are generally in line with the Massachusetts state average, which is among the highest in the nation. For an infant (under 15 months), you can expect to pay approximately $1,600 to $2,000 per month at a licensed center. For a toddler, costs typically range from $1,400 to $1,800 per month. Home-based family childcare in Berkley is often a more affordable option, usually ranging from $900 to $1,300 monthly. It's important to note that prices can vary based on the program's curriculum, staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities. Many families utilize the state's Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA) program, and some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
How do I find and verify licensed childcare providers in Berkley, MA?
The primary resource for finding licensed providers is the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) online search tool. You can filter by city (Berkley), zip code (02779), and age of your child. This tool shows both licensed childcare centers and family childcare homes. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the EEC's "Check Licensing" feature, which details any past violations, complaints, or enforcement actions. For local insights, the **Berkley Public Library** and the **Berkley Town Hall** often have community bulletin boards with information, and connecting with local parent groups on social media can provide personal recommendations and experiences with specific providers in town.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Berkley, and how far in advance should I apply?
Yes, waitlists are very common for infant and toddler spots at highly-regarded daycare centers in Berkley and the nearby towns of Taunton, Raynham, and Lakeville. Due to high demand and limited infant slots (strict state ratios mean fewer spots), it is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **during your first trimester of pregnancy**, or at least 9-12 months before your desired start date. Many popular family childcare homes in Berkley also maintain waitlists. When touring, always ask about the current waitlist length, the deposit policy (which is often non-refundable), and how frequently they update families on their position.
What are the main differences between a daycare center and a family childcare home in Berkley?
The choice often comes down to environment, schedule, and philosophy. **Licensed Centers** in Berkley (like those in nearby commercial areas) typically operate in a dedicated facility with multiple classrooms, structured curricula, and larger groups of children. They often have more staff with specialized degrees and may offer extended hours. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate out of a provider's residence in a Berkley neighborhood, offering a mixed-age, home-like setting with smaller groups (max of 10 children, including the provider's own). This can provide more flexible hours and a family-oriented atmosphere. Both are regulated by the MA EEC, but homes may offer more personalized care and potentially greater schedule flexibility, which can be valuable for Berkley parents with non-traditional work hours.
What local resources or programs in Berkley can help subsidize the cost of childcare?
The primary program is the state-administered **Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA)**, which provides subsidies to income-eligible families. You apply through the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Additionally, the **Berkley School District** may offer information on sliding-scale preschool programs for 3- and 4-year-olds. For tax savings, all Massachusetts families can utilize the federal **Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit**. It's also worth inquiring directly with providers, as some may offer need-based scholarships or discounts for town employees or first responders. For guidance, you can contact the **Southeast Regional Office of the MA EEC** or local community action agencies that serve Bristol County.