The Best Daycare Centers in Marshfield, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Marshfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Marshfield
Little Sprouts Early Education & Child Care
Little Sprouts LLC
Little Sprouts Marshfield offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a research-based curriculum focused on social-emotional development and academic readiness. The facility features bright, modern classrooms with natural light, age-appropriate learning materials, and secure outdoor play areas. Their educators hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The center emphasizes project-based learning, STEAM activities, and character development. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. Parents appreciate the strong communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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The Goddard School of Marshfield
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Marshfield provides a play-based learning environment with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. The facility includes dedicated art, music, and movement spaces, along with age-specific playgrounds. All lead teachers hold four-year degrees and are trained in Goddard's proprietary curriculum. The school offers enrichment programs in foreign language, yoga, and technology. Security features include keypad entry, live streaming video for parents, and comprehensive emergency protocols. The center is known for its strong parent community and extensive communication through the Goddard mobile app.
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Bright Horizons at Duxbury
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Duxbury serves families throughout the South Shore region including Marshfield with their World at Their Fingertips curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and discovery. The center features well-equipped classrooms with learning centers for literacy, math, science, and dramatic play, along with spacious outdoor learning environments. Teachers typically hold bachelor's degrees in education and receive ongoing professional development. The program includes emergent curriculum approaches where children's interests guide learning experiences. The center maintains excellent staff retention rates and offers flexible scheduling options. Safety is prioritized with secure building access, comprehensive health protocols, and regular facility maintenance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Marshfield, MA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Marshfield, MA?
In Marshfield, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $1,600 to $2,200 per month, while toddler care generally costs between $1,400 and $1,900 per month. These rates are influenced by factors such as the type of program (center-based vs. home-based), the specific curriculum offered, and the staff-to-child ratios. Costs in Marshfield are slightly above the Massachusetts state average, reflecting the higher cost of living in the South Shore region. It's important to inquire about what is included in tuition, such as meals, diapers, and enrichment activities. Many families in Marshfield utilize the state's Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA) program or dependent care FSAs to help manage these expenses.
How long are typical waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Marshfield, and when should I apply?
Waitlists for highly-regarded licensed daycare centers in Marshfield can be substantial, especially for infant rooms. It is not uncommon for families to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for popular centers. For infant care, it is advisable to begin touring facilities and applying as early as your second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler and preschool openings, applying 4-6 months in advance is a prudent strategy. Many centers in Marshfield maintain rolling waitlists, so it's beneficial to stay in periodic contact. We recommend applying to multiple programs to increase your chances of securing a spot when you need it.
What are the licensing requirements and oversight for childcare providers in Marshfield, MA?
All childcare providers in Marshfield must be licensed and regularly inspected by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). The EEC sets strict standards for health and safety, staff qualifications (including background checks and required training in CPR/first aid), staff-to-child ratios, group sizes, and curriculum. For example, in a licensed center, the ratio for infants (0-15 months) is 1:3 or 2:7. Parents can and should verify a provider's license status and review their most recent inspection reports through the EEC's online search portal. This public record provides transparency into any compliance issues or commendations.
Are there specific local resources in Marshfield to help parents find and evaluate childcare options?
Yes, Marshfield parents have several valuable local resources. The primary resource is the **Child Care Circuit**, which is the state-designated Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for the South Shore, including Marshfield. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed programs, help with understanding financial assistance, and provide guidance on what to look for during a visit. Additionally, the **Marshfield Recreation Department** offers preschool and before/after-school programs that can be part of a childcare solution. Local parent groups on social media platforms are also active and can provide firsthand recommendations and experiences with providers in town.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Marshfield, and what are the key differences?
Marshfield offers a mix of childcare settings to suit different family needs. The main types are: 1. **Licensed Childcare Centers:** These are facility-based programs, often with structured curricula, multiple classrooms, and larger staff teams. Examples in Marshfield include standalone centers and those affiliated with local schools or community organizations. 2. **Family Childcare (FCC) Homes:** These are licensed programs run out of a provider's home, offering a smaller, more intimate, and often more flexible setting with mixed-age groups. They are plentiful in Marshfield's residential neighborhoods. 3. **Public School Preschool:** The Marshfield Public Schools offer integrated preschool programs for children ages 3-5, which may include both typical peers and children with identified needs. The key differences involve environment size, flexibility, cost, and educational philosophy. FCC homes often provide more personalized care and may accommodate non-standard hours, while centers typically offer more structured educational programming and greater resources.
Nearby Cities
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