The Best Daycare Centers in Greenbush, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Greenbush. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Greenbush
The Goddard School of Hingham
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Hingham offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts, delivered by qualified teachers with bachelor's or master's degrees in education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play spaces. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide daily communication to parents about their child's development and activities.
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South Shore Stars Early Learning Center
South Shore Stars
South Shore Stars is a highly respected nonprofit organization providing comprehensive early education and care programs. Their research-based curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and school readiness. The center features highly qualified staff with early childhood education credentials, modern security systems, nutritious meal programs, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. They offer sliding scale tuition and serve families throughout the South Shore region with a strong focus on inclusive education and family engagement.
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The Children's Garden of Scituate
Independent
The Children's Garden of Scituate provides a nurturing, play-based learning environment with a strong emphasis on nature and outdoor education. Their curriculum combines Montessori-inspired activities with traditional early childhood education approaches, focusing on hands-on learning and social development. The center features experienced educators with early childhood certifications, secure facilities with coded entry, organic gardens, and extensive outdoor play areas. They maintain excellent staff-to-child ratios and emphasize individualized attention and parent communication.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Greenbush, MA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Greenbush, MA?
In Greenbush and the surrounding South Shore area of Massachusetts, daycare costs are generally in line with the state average, which is among the highest in the nation. For full-time infant care (under 15 months), you can expect to pay approximately $1,600 to $2,100 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers (15 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $1,400 to $1,800 per month. Family childcare homes in Greenbush may offer slightly lower rates, often between $1,200 and $1,600 monthly for infants. It's important to note that these are base rates; additional fees for registration, supplies, or late pick-up are common. Massachusetts also offers financial assistance programs like the Child Care Voucher Program (subsidized care) for eligible families, which can be applied for through the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC).
How can I verify the license and inspection history of a daycare provider in Greenbush?
All licensed childcare providers in Greenbush, whether centers or family childcare homes, are regulated by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). The most reliable way to verify a provider's license and review their compliance history is to use the EEC's online **Licensed Child Care Search** tool. You can search by program name, location, or provider. This public portal displays the program's license status, capacity, age ranges served, and any non-compliance reports from the past three years. For a more detailed report, you can contact the EEC's Southeast Regional Office, which oversees Greenbush. We also recommend visiting the facility in person and asking the director to see their current license, which must be posted.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Greenbush, and what's the best strategy for securing a spot?
Yes, due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, many daycare centers and highly-regarded family childcare homes in Greenbush and neighboring towns like Scituate and Hingham maintain significant waitlists, often 6 to 12 months long. The best strategy is to start your search early, ideally during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before your needed start date. Create a list of 5-8 preferred providers and get on their waitlists as soon as possible, even if you're unsure. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$100). Follow up with providers every 2-3 months to express continued interest. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes, which may have more immediate openings and offer a smaller setting.
What are the options for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Greenbush?
While full-time care is most common, several options exist for part-time or flexible needs in Greenbush. Many licensed family childcare homes offer part-week schedules (e.g., 2 or 3 days a week), which can be more cost-effective. Some larger daycare centers in the area may offer part-time slots, but these are limited and often in high demand. Another growing option is to use a registered nanny share with another local family, which can offer highly customized hours. For occasional or backup care, you can explore services like Care.com or local Facebook parent groups (e.g., South Shore Moms) where babysitters and nannies advertise. Additionally, some local preschool programs for children 2.9 years and older offer half-day options that can complement other care arrangements.
What unique local resources or programs support parents seeking childcare in the Greenbush area?
Parents in Greenbush have access to several valuable local resources. First, the **South Shore Community Action Council (SSCAC)** provides information and referrals for childcare and can help families apply for state financial assistance. Second, the **Plimoth Patuxet Museums** and the **South Shore Natural Science Center** often host parent-child programs that can supplement care. For networking and recommendations, the "**South Shore Moms**" Facebook group is an active forum where parents share firsthand experiences with local providers. Finally, the **Town of Scituate's Recreation Department** (Greenbush is a village within Scituate) offers seasonal camps, preschool programs, and after-school care that can fill gaps in traditional daycare schedules. Always check with the Scituate Town Hall or website for current community program listings.