The Best Daycare Centers in Carver, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Carver. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Carver
The Goddard School of Plymouth
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Plymouth offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development programs. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide regular progress reports to parents. The center is known for its clean, safe environment and strong communication with families.
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Little People's College - South Plymouth
Little People's College
Little People's College - South Plymouth provides comprehensive childcare services with a research-based curriculum that focuses on whole-child development. Their experienced teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators who implement Creative Curriculum® with individualized learning plans. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, modern classrooms, and large outdoor playgrounds. They offer nutritious meals and snacks through their in-house food program. Special programs include music and movement, early literacy development, and social skills building. The center is praised for its experienced staff and nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten success.
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Creative Kids Preschool & Childcare
Creative Kids Early Learning Centers
Creative Kids Preschool & Childcare offers a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning experiences in literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The center maintains small class sizes with certified early childhood educators who receive continuous training. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The facility includes age-specific learning environments, indoor gross motor spaces, and outdoor playgrounds. Parents appreciate the center's strong communication, inclusive atmosphere, and focus on developing independence and social skills in children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Carver, MA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Carver, MA?
In Carver and the surrounding South Shore 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 may range from $1,400 to $1,800 per month. Home-based family childcare in Carver is often a more affordable option, typically ranging from $900 to $1,400 monthly. It's important to note that these are estimates, and prices can vary based on the program's curriculum, staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities. Many facilities in the area have annual registration or supply fees as well. We recommend contacting providers directly for their current rates.
How can I verify if a daycare or preschool in Carver is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All childcare programs in Carver must be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). The easiest way to verify a provider's status and review its history is to use the EEC's online search tool called the "Licensed Child Care Search." You can search by program name, city (Carver), or zip code. This public portal provides crucial information, including the license status (active, probation, etc.), capacity, ages served, and any serious non-compliance reports from the past three years. For a more detailed background, you can also contact the EEC's Southeast Regional Office, which oversees Carver, to inquire about a specific program's licensing and inspection history.
Are there any subsidized childcare or financial assistance programs available specifically for Carver residents?
Yes, Carver families may qualify for state-subsidized childcare through the Massachusetts Income Eligible Child Care Financial Assistance program, administered by the EEC. Eligibility is based on household income, size, and need (such as employment or education). Additionally, the South Shore Community Action Council (SSCAC), which serves Plymouth County including Carver, is a key local agency that helps families apply for these vouchers and can provide information on other local resources. Some Carver-based providers may also offer limited private scholarships or sliding scale fees. We strongly recommend applying for state assistance as early as possible, as waitlists can be long.
What is the availability and waitlist situation for infant care in Carver, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Infant care (for children under 15 months) is the most limited and sought-after childcare segment in Carver and across Massachusetts due to strict staff-to-child ratios. It is common for reputable centers and family childcare homes in Carver to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. We advise expecting parents to begin researching and contacting providers as early as the second trimester of pregnancy. When you tour a facility, be sure to ask about their specific waitlist process: whether there's a fee to join, how often you need to check in to stay active, and their estimated timeline. Exploring options in neighboring towns like Plymouth, Middleborough, or Kingston may also be necessary.
What are some of the key local factors or resources for parents to consider when choosing a daycare in Carver?
When evaluating daycares in Carver, consider these local factors: First, **transportation and location**: Many providers are in residential areas, so consider your commute to major routes like Route 44 or Route 58. Some may offer transportation to/from local public schools for older preschoolers. Second, **community connections**: Look for programs that incorporate local resources, such as visits to the Carver Public Library, Carver Town Hall, or nearby parks like Shurtleff Park. Third, **school alignment**: If you plan for your child to attend Carver Elementary Schools, inquire if the preschool curriculum aligns with the district's kindergarten readiness expectations. Finally, **emergency preparedness**: Given Carver's mix of suburban and more rural areas, ask about their protocols for weather-related closures, power outages, and communication systems during emergencies.