The Best Daycare Centers in Dartmouth, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Dartmouth. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Dartmouth
Kiddie Academy of Fall River
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Fall River provides comprehensive educational childcare with a structured curriculum that emphasizes character development, literacy, and STEM learning. Their Life Essentials® program focuses on age-appropriate activities that promote social, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth. The facility features secure entry systems, certified teachers with early childhood education backgrounds, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. They maintain low teacher-to-child ratios and offer nutritious meal programs. The academy serves families throughout the South Coast region, including Dartmouth residents, with many parents commuting from nearby communities for their high-quality educational approach and consistent programming.
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Bright Horizons at New Bedford
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at New Bedford offers a research-based curriculum that emphasizes emergent learning and project-based activities. The center features highly qualified early childhood educators, many with bachelor's degrees in education, and maintains NAEYC accreditation standards. Their World at Their Fingertips curriculum incorporates literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts through hands-on exploration. The facility includes secure access controls, outdoor learning environments, and age-appropriate learning centers. Bright Horizons serves as a preferred provider for many South Coast employers and attracts families from Dartmouth seeking their employer-sponsored benefits and flexible scheduling options.
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The Learning Experience - North Dartmouth
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in North Dartmouth provides a comprehensive early education program with proprietary curricula including L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) and philanthropy-focused curriculum. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, including keypad entry and surveillance cameras, along with USDA-approved meal programs. Their academic approach emphasizes phonics, foreign language introduction, and manners programming. The facility includes multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, interactive whiteboards in classrooms, and dedicated music and movement spaces. As one of the highest-rated centers in the immediate Dartmouth area, they attract families seeking a balance of academic preparation and character development within a modern, safe environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Dartmouth, MA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Dartmouth, MA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Dartmouth, MA, the cost of full-time childcare varies significantly based on the child's age and the type of program. For an infant (under 15 months), you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month. For toddlers (15-33 months), costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,600 monthly, and for preschool-age children (33 months to 5 years), fees are generally between $1,000 and $1,400 per month. These rates are for licensed center-based care; home-based family childcare may be slightly less expensive. For financial assistance, Massachusetts offers the state-subsidized Child Care Voucher Program (commonly called "vouchers" or "financial assistance") through the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Eligibility is based on family income, size, and need (e.g., working, attending school). You can apply through the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for the Southeast region, which is The Children's Trust. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Dartmouth, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for high-quality, licensed daycare centers in Dartmouth can be lengthy, especially for infant and toddler classrooms. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. To improve your chances of securing a spot, it is highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. When contacting centers, be prepared to provide your child's anticipated start date and age. Follow up with centers every 2-3 months to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Dartmouth and neighboring towns like New Bedford or Westport, as they may have shorter wait times and offer more flexible availability.
What are the licensing requirements and safety regulations for childcare providers in Dartmouth, MA?
All childcare providers in Dartmouth must be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). The EEC sets stringent regulations covering staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, health and safety standards, curriculum, and facility requirements. For example, in a center-based setting, the ratio for infants is 1 staff to 3 infants or 1:7 with two staff. All lead teachers must have a minimum of a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or an associate's degree in early childhood education. Providers must pass comprehensive background checks (CORI/SORI), and facilities are subject to unannounced inspections. Parents can and should verify a program's license status, view its compliance history, and check for any serious violations through the EEC's online search tool. This provides transparency and assurance that the program meets state-mandated safety and quality standards.
Are there any unique early education programs or resources for families in Dartmouth, such as public preschool or nature-based programs?
Yes, Dartmouth offers several unique options. The Dartmouth Public Schools system operates a public preschool program for 3- and 4-year-olds, which is a tuition-based program with potential slots for income-eligible families. This is a great option for families seeking a structured, school-district-run early education experience. Furthermore, given Dartmouth's coastal and rural character, there are a few nature-based and outdoor-focused preschool programs in the area. These programs emphasize outdoor play and learning in natural settings, which can be a great fit for active children. Additionally, the Dartmouth YMCA is a significant community resource, offering preschool programs, before/after-school care, and summer camps that incorporate physical activity and social development. Checking with the Dartmouth Council on Aging can also connect you with playgroups and family resource networks.
What should I look for when touring a daycare facility in Dartmouth, and what are some local red flags?
When touring a daycare in Dartmouth, observe the following: Is the facility clean, safe, and well-maintained? Are children engaged in activities and do staff interact warmly and at the child's level? Ask about staff turnover rates (high turnover can be a concern), the daily schedule, and their philosophy on discipline and learning. Inquire about their emergency procedures, especially for weather events common to the South Coast area. A major local red flag is an unlicensed provider—always verify EEC licensing. Also, be wary of programs that are reluctant to show you all areas of the facility, cannot provide a clear copy of their policies, or have staff who are not CPR/first-aid certified. Given Dartmouth's mix of busy roads and more rural areas, check that outdoor play areas are securely fenced. Trust your instincts; if something feels off, it likely is. Utilize the EEC's online portal to check the program's official record for any serious non-compliance issues.
Nearby Cities
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