The Best Daycare Centers in Edgartown, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Edgartown. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Edgartown
Martha's Vineyard Family Center
Martha's Vineyard Community Services
The Martha's Vineyard Family Center operates as part of Martha's Vineyard Community Services and serves families across the island, including Edgartown. This NAEYC-accredited facility offers comprehensive early childhood programs with a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with specialized training in child development. The center features modern classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and emphasizes social-emotional learning. What sets this center apart is its integration with broader community services, providing families access to additional support resources while maintaining small class sizes and excellent teacher-to-child ratios.
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Vineyard Montessori School
Independent
Vineyard Montessori School serves Martha's Vineyard families with authentic Montessori education for children ages 18 months through 12 years. The school features AMI-trained guides and certified Montessori teachers who implement the complete Montessori curriculum. Facilities include specially designed Montessori classrooms, beautiful outdoor learning environments, and practical life areas. The school emphasizes individualized learning, independence, and respect for each child's developmental pace. Their mixed-age classrooms and hands-on learning materials create an environment where children develop critical thinking skills and intrinsic motivation for learning.
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Island Children's School
Independent
Island Children's School provides progressive early childhood education serving Martha's Vineyard communities including Edgartown. The school employs a project-based, emergent curriculum that follows children's interests while meeting Massachusetts Early Learning Standards. Features include certified early childhood educators, low student-teacher ratios, nature-based outdoor classrooms, and comprehensive arts integration. The school emphasizes community building, environmental stewardship, and developing the whole child through hands-on exploration. Their extended day and summer programs provide consistent care options for working families across the island.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Edgartown, MA
What are the typical costs for full-time infant and toddler daycare in Edgartown, MA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Edgartown, full-time daycare for infants and toddlers is among the highest in Massachusetts due to the island's remote location and high cost of living. You can expect to pay between $375 to $475 per week for infant care and slightly less for toddlers. These rates are often higher during the peak summer season. 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 size and income. Additionally, it's worth contacting the **Martha's Vineyard Community Services (MVCS)**, as they sometimes have resources or can direct you to island-specific grants or sliding-scale options. Many local providers are familiar with the voucher process.
How long are daycare waitlists in Edgartown, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Waitlists for licensed daycare centers and highly-regarded family childcare homes in Edgartown can be very long, often 12 to 18 months, especially for infant spots. The limited number of providers and high seasonal demand contribute to this. It is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as soon as you know you are expecting, or at least a year in advance of your needed start date. For families moving to the island, starting the search remotely is crucial. Be proactive: call providers, schedule tours even if a waitlist exists, and confirm your spot on lists periodically. Some providers may have shorter waits for preschool-age children or for off-season (fall/winter) start dates.
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Edgartown, and how do I verify a provider's license?
The primary licensed options in Edgartown are **Family Child Care (FCC)** homes (smaller, home-based settings) and **Child Care Centers**. There are very few large centers on the island, making FCC homes a prevalent and vital option. All licensed providers in Massachusetts are regulated by the **Department of Early Education and Care (EEC)**. You can and should verify a provider's license status, compliance history, and any reported violations through the EEC's online **Licensing Child Care Search** tool. This public database shows the provider's capacity, age ranges served, and licensing history. Always choose a licensed provider to ensure health, safety, and educational standards are met.
Are there any unique seasonal childcare challenges or solutions for families in Edgartown?
Yes, seasonality is a major factor. The summer population surge creates a dual challenge: some year-round providers may fill with seasonal families, while other "summer-only" programs open but may not suit year-round residents. Conversely, some programs may close or reduce hours in the quieter off-season (late fall through early spring). Solutions include: 1) Securing a year-round spot in a licensed program well in advance, 2) Exploring nanny-shares with other local families, which are common on the island, 3) Checking with the **Edgartown Council on Aging** or **Martha's Vineyard Community Services** for referrals to reliable babysitters or backup care networks, and 4) Inquiring if your chosen provider offers a guaranteed year-round spot versus a seasonal contract.
What should I look for during a daycare tour specific to an island community like Edgartown?
Beyond standard checks for safety and curriculum, ask island-specific questions. Inquire about their **protocol for inclement weather and ferry cancellations**, which can strand staff or parents. Ask about their **source for fresh food and groceries**—do they have a reliable supplier given ferry logistics? Understand their **summer enrollment policy** and if it affects your child's spot. Check their **outdoor space and play philosophy**—utilizing the island's natural environment is a huge benefit. Finally, discuss **communication plans for power outages or other island-wide issues**. A good provider will have clear, practical plans for these unique logistical challenges, demonstrating their experience operating in a remote island community.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Edgartown: