The Best Daycare Centers in Franklin, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Franklin. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Franklin
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Franklin offers a comprehensive play-based learning curriculum focused on developmental milestones. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) emphasizes social, cognitive, and physical development through hands-on activities. The facility features secure entry systems, certified teachers with early childhood education credentials, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide regular progress reports to parents. The school stands out for its STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) integration and focus on school readiness skills.
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KinderCare at Franklin
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare Franklin provides a research-based curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. Their program includes phonics-based literacy, mathematics concepts, and science exploration tailored to each age group. The center features secure facilities with keypad entry, certified early childhood educators, and structured daily schedules that include both indoor and outdoor activities. They offer nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent-teacher conferences, and specialized programs for school-age children. The center is noted for its inclusive environment and strong focus on building foundational learning skills.
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Creative Kids Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Creative Kids Preschool & Childcare offers a balanced approach combining structured learning with creative exploration. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy development, mathematical thinking, and social skills through thematic units and project-based learning. The facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds. Staff members hold early childhood certifications and participate in ongoing professional development. The center is particularly recognized for its arts integration program, small class sizes, and strong family communication through daily reports and digital updates. They maintain excellent safety records and focus on creating a nurturing, home-like environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Franklin, MA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Franklin, MA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Franklin, MA, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,300 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $1,600 to $2,000 per month. These rates can vary based on the type of center (corporate chain vs. home-based), specific programs offered, and staff-to-child ratios. 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 (like employment or education). Additionally, some Franklin-based providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's highly recommended to contact the EEC directly and inquire with individual daycare centers about any private scholarship opportunities or waitlists for subsidized slots.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Franklin is properly licensed and what are the key state regulations I should know about?
All childcare programs in Franklin 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 compliance history by using the EEC's online "Search for Child Care" tool on their official website. Key Massachusetts regulations include strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:3 for infants, 1:4 for toddlers, 1:10 for preschoolers), comprehensive background checks (CORI/SORI) for all staff, and required health and safety training including First Aid/CPR. Licensed programs in Franklin also must meet specific standards for facility safety, nutrition, and curriculum. Always ask to see a provider's current license during your visit and review their most recent EEC inspection report for peace of mind.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Franklin, and when should I start looking for care, especially for an infant?
Yes, waitlists are very common for infant and toddler programs in Franklin, particularly at highly-rated centers and licensed family childcare homes. Due to high demand and limited infant slots (because of the low 1:3 staff ratio), it is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy or 6-12 months before your desired start date. For preschool-age children, waitlists may be shorter but still prevalent for programs starting in the fall. When touring facilities, always ask about their specific waitlist process, any associated fees, and how often they update families on their status. Exploring multiple options, including both centers and licensed family childcare providers in different Franklin neighborhoods, can increase your chances of securing a spot.
What are the main differences between a daycare center and a licensed family childcare home in Franklin, and how do I decide which is right for my child?
In Franklin, the two primary licensed options are daycare centers and family childcare homes (FCC). Daycare centers are typically larger facilities with multiple classrooms, more children, and a structured, institutional environment. They often have multiple staff with specialized roles and may offer more structured educational curricula. Licensed Family Childcare Homes are run out of a provider's residence, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of children (up to 10, including the provider's own), which can create a more home-like, family-oriented atmosphere. FCCs often offer more flexible hours and may be more accommodating for non-standard schedules. Your choice depends on your child's temperament, your schedule, and your priorities. Consider a center if you value a structured school-like setting with multiple caregivers. Consider an FCC if you prefer a smaller, more intimate setting with potentially more flexible care. Tour both types in Franklin to get a feel for their environments.
Beyond basic care, what types of enrichment or educational programs are typically offered by daycare centers and preschools in Franklin?
Many daycare centers and preschools in Franklin go beyond basic custodial care to offer structured educational and enrichment programs aligned with the Massachusetts Early Learning Guidelines. Common offerings include play-based and emergent curricula (like Creative Curriculum), early literacy and math programs, STEM activities, music and movement classes, and outdoor learning. Given Franklin's community focus, some programs may incorporate local field trips (e.g., to the Franklin Public Library or DelCarte Conservation Area) or partner with town recreation programs. You'll also find centers with specific philosophies, such as Montessori or Reggio Emilia-inspired approaches. When touring, ask about daily schedules, curriculum goals, teacher qualifications (many have EEC-certified Lead Teacher or Director credentials), and how they communicate child progress to parents. Some centers may also offer optional extracurriculars like introductory sports, yoga, or foreign language exposure for an additional fee.