The Best Daycare Centers in Lexington, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lexington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lexington
The Goddard School of Lexington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lexington offers a premier early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach that balances academic preparation and social development. Their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program incorporates STEAM learning, language arts, and creative arts. Features include secure entry systems, live streaming for parents, highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees, and age-appropriate playgrounds. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios and provides nutritious meals and snacks.
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Bright Horizons at Lexington
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Lexington provides a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on school readiness and whole-child development. Their World at Their Fingertips® curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on learning. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, certified early childhood educators, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. They offer enrichment programs including music, movement, and Spanish language exposure, with strong emphasis on social-emotional learning and character development.
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The Learning Experience - Lexington
The Learning Experience
Located just minutes from Lexington in Waltham, The Learning Experience serves Lexington families with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, mathematics, and science. The center features modern security systems, highly trained teachers with early childhood certifications, and interactive learning technology. Their programs include character development through Manners Matters® and philanthropy curriculum. Facilities include age-segregated playgrounds, indoor gymnasium, and dedicated art and music rooms with comprehensive safety protocols and regular parent communication.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lexington, MA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lexington, MA, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Lexington, MA, the average cost for full-time infant daycare ranges from approximately $2,200 to $3,000+ per month, with toddler care typically being slightly lower. These rates reflect the high quality, staff-to-child ratios, and operating costs in the area. For financial assistance, Massachusetts offers the state-subsidized Child Care Voucher Program (also known as Income Eligible Child Care) through the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Eligibility is based on family size and income. Additionally, some Lexington centers may offer limited sliding-scale spots or scholarships. It's also recommended to inquire about Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) through your employer and the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit.
How long are typical waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Lexington, and when should I start my search?
Waitlists for highly-regarded licensed daycare centers and preschools in Lexington can be extensive, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your first trimester of pregnancy if seeking infant care. For toddler or preschool entry, starting 12 months in advance is prudent. Be proactive: tour multiple facilities, complete applications (which often require a non-refundable fee), and maintain communication with centers every few months to stay on their radar.
What are the key differences between a licensed family childcare home and a center-based program in Lexington?
In Lexington, both are licensed by the MA Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), but they offer different environments. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** are run out of a provider's residence, typically caring for a mixed-age group of up to 6-10 children. They often offer a more home-like, flexible setting and may be more accommodating to non-standard hours. **Center-Based Programs** operate in commercial or institutional spaces, have multiple classrooms grouped by age, and often employ a larger staff with specialized roles (e.g., directors, lead teachers, specialists). Centers may have more structured curricula and facilities like dedicated playgrounds. Your choice depends on your child's socialization needs, your schedule, and your preference for environment.
Are there any unique or highly-regarded early education philosophies or programs commonly found in Lexington daycare centers?
Yes, Lexington's childcare landscape features several prominent educational approaches. Many centers incorporate elements of the **Reggio Emilia** philosophy, which emphasizes child-led, project-based learning in a thoughtfully prepared environment. **Montessori** programs are also available, focusing on independent learning with specialized materials. Additionally, you will find **play-based** and **academically-oriented** preschool programs that prepare children for Lexington's highly-rated public schools. Some centers also integrate **Nature-Based** or **Outdoor Classroom** components, taking advantage of local conservation lands. It's important to tour and ask how these philosophies are implemented in daily routines.
Beyond basic licensing, what should I look for to ensure a daycare is high-quality during a tour in Lexington?
First, verify the program's current EEC license is posted and check its history for violations online via the MA EEC website. During your tour, observe: **Staff Interactions:** Are teachers engaged at the children's level, speaking warmly and respectfully? **Environment:** Is it clean, safe, well-organized, and filled with children's artwork? Is there ample natural light and access to outdoor space? **Curriculum:** Ask about a typical day and how learning goals are communicated. **Policies:** Inquire about staff turnover (low is best), teacher qualifications (many have BA/BS degrees), sick policies, security procedures, and parent communication methods (e.g., daily apps like Brightwheel). Trusting your instincts about the overall feel is also crucial.
Nearby Cities
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