The Best Daycare Centers in Holliston, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Holliston. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Holliston
The Learning Experience of Holliston
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience of Holliston offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a proprietary L.E.A.P.® curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, and social-emotional development. The center features state-certified teachers with specialized training in child development, maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, daily health checks, and sanitization protocols. The facility includes modern classrooms, indoor play areas, and outdoor playgrounds designed for age-appropriate activities. Parent involvement is encouraged through real-time updates via the center's mobile app, and the program includes enrichment activities like music, yoga, and philanthropy lessons. What sets this center apart is its focus on preparing children for kindergarten through a balanced approach of structured learning and creative play.
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Holliston Children's Center
Independent
Holliston Children's Center is a locally owned facility known for its nurturing, play-based curriculum that aligns with Massachusetts Early Learning Standards. The center employs experienced, early childhood-educated teachers who focus on individualized development through hands-on activities, circle time, and outdoor exploration. Safety measures include keypad entry, background-checked staff, and emergency preparedness drills. The environment features bright, spacious classrooms, a fenced outdoor play space, and organic meal options. The center stands out for its strong community ties, flexible scheduling, and emphasis on social skills and independence, supported by regular parent-teacher conferences and progress reports.
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The Goddard School of Framingham
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Framingham, located just minutes from Holliston, offers a renowned F.L.E.X.® Learning Program that blends academic readiness with play-based learning, focusing on literacy, STEM, and creative arts. The school employs degreed teachers in early childhood education, with ongoing professional development and low child-to-teacher ratios. Safety is enhanced through 24/7 monitored security cameras, strict hygiene practices, and a secured facility. The campus includes age-specific classrooms, indoor gyms, and outdoor playgrounds. What makes this school exceptional is its focus on whole-child development, including mindfulness activities and technology integration, along with strong parent communication through daily reports and an interactive mobile app.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Holliston, MA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Holliston, MA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Holliston, the cost of full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,300 per month, while toddler and preschool programs generally cost between $1,500 and $2,000 per month. These rates are competitive with the broader MetroWest Boston area. 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 and need. Additionally, many Holliston-based centers and family childcare providers accept these vouchers. It's also worth checking with your employer, as some local companies in the Route 495 corridor offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or other benefits. The Holliston Public Schools' integrated preschool may offer sliding scale tuition for some community spots.
How long are the waitlists for daycare centers in Holliston, and when should I start my search?
Waitlists in Holliston can be significant, especially for infant care at highly-regarded centers. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long, and some may even suggest putting your name on a list before your child is born. For toddler and preschool programs, waitlists are typically shorter, around 3-6 months. We strongly recommend starting your search during your pregnancy if possible, or at least 9-12 months before your desired start date. Be proactive: contact multiple providers (both centers and licensed family childcare homes), get on multiple lists, and follow up periodically. The limited number of licensed slots in town contributes to this demand. The Holliston Newcomers Club and local parent Facebook groups can sometimes have leads on lesser-known or home-based openings.
What are the main differences between a daycare center and a licensed family childcare home in Holliston, and how do I verify their licensing?
Daycare centers in Holliston are larger facilities, often with multiple classrooms, structured curricula, and larger staff teams. They typically have set hours and may offer more peer interaction. Licensed Family Childcare (FCC) homes are smaller, home-based settings run by a licensed educator, usually caring for a mixed-age group of up to 6-10 children. FCC homes often offer more flexible hours and a family-like atmosphere. The most critical step for either option is to verify their license with the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). You can search the EEC's online licensor portal for any licensed program's status, compliance history, and capacity. Always ask the provider for their EEC license number. All licensed programs in Holliston must meet the same core state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and curriculum.
Does the Town of Holliston offer any public preschool or pre-K programs, and how do they work?
Yes, the Holliston Public Schools (HPS) operates an Integrated Preschool Program for children ages 3-5. This program is located at the Robert H. Adams Middle School and serves both children with identified special needs through their IEPs and typically developing "peer models" from the community. The peer model spots are filled through a lottery system, and there is a tuition cost for these spots, though it is often lower than private preschools. The program follows the public school calendar and typically runs part-day, though some extended-day options may be available. Applications for the annual lottery are usually due in the winter/early spring for the following fall. Contact the HPS Student Services office directly for the most current application timeline and details.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in Holliston, and are there any local resources to help me compare options?
During a tour, look beyond the facilities. Ask about staff turnover (low turnover is a good sign), educator qualifications (EEC requires lead teachers to have specific credentials), and the daily schedule. Observe how staff interact with children—are they engaged and responsive? Inquire about their philosophy (e.g., play-based, Montessori, academic) and how they handle discipline, naps, and feeding. Check for safety features like secure entrances and clean, age-appropriate spaces. For local comparisons, use the Massachusetts EEC search tool to review licensing reports. The "Holliston Moms" Facebook group is an active forum for firsthand parent reviews and recommendations. Additionally, the United Way of Tri-County's "Call 2-1-1" or their online database can provide a list of licensed providers in the 01746 zip code and surrounding areas.