The Best Daycare Centers in Newbury, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Newbury. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Newbury
The Goddard School of Newburyport
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Newburyport is a highly-regarded early childhood education center serving the Newbury area with a play-based learning approach. It features a F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that emphasizes literacy, STEM, and social-emotional development through hands-on activities. Certified teachers with early childhood education degrees maintain low student-to-teacher ratios, and the facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and daily communication apps for parents. Safety protocols include keypad entry, regular sanitization, and background-checked staff. The school stands out for its individualized learning plans and enrichment programs like yoga and music, fostering a nurturing environment for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Andover
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Andover is a top-rated childcare center that serves families in Newbury with a research-based curriculum focused on whole-child development. The World at Their Fingertips® program integrates literacy, math, science, and arts through project-based learning, supported by degreed educators who use ongoing assessments to track milestones. The facility boasts state-of-the-art security systems, nutritious meal programs, and spacious indoor/outdoor play areas. Emphasis on safety includes CPR-certified staff and rigorous cleanliness standards. Parent involvement is encouraged through regular updates and family events, making it a trusted choice for its strong educational foundations and flexible scheduling options.
Daycare Services:
Newburyport Children's Center
Independent Non-Profit
Newburyport Children's Center is a beloved local childcare provider known for its warm, inclusive environment and developmentally appropriate practices. The curriculum blends play-based and structured learning, with a focus on social skills, creativity, and kindergarten readiness through themes like nature exploration and community helpers. Staff includes experienced early childhood professionals with low turnover, and the center maintains small class sizes for personalized attention. Safety is prioritized with secured access, health screenings, and allergy-aware policies. Highlights include a large outdoor garden, organic snacks, and strong parent-teacher partnerships, making it a standout for its community-centered approach and high parent satisfaction.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Newbury, MA
What are the typical costs for infant and toddler daycare in Newbury, MA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Newbury and the surrounding Newburyport/Plum Island area, 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 costs reflect the high demand and operational expenses in Essex County. For financial assistance, Massachusetts offers the state-subsidized Child Care Voucher Program (commonly called "child care financial assistance") through the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Eligibility is based on family income and need. Additionally, local organizations like the Pettengill House in Salisbury may offer resources and referrals. It's highly recommended to apply for state assistance early, as waitlists can exist, and to inquire directly with local centers about any private scholarship or sliding-scale options they might offer.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers and family childcare homes in Newbury, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists in Newbury can be significant, especially for infant rooms and highly-regarded centers, often ranging from 6 to 18 months. Family childcare homes (FCCs) in residential areas may have shorter but still substantial wait times. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy. Contact multiple providers, get on their lists, and follow up politely every few months. Consider expanding your search to neighboring towns like Newburyport, Rowley, and Salisbury, but note that some centers give priority to town residents. Many facilities require a non-refundable waitlist fee. Being flexible with your desired start date can also help. The Massachusetts EEC website provides a searchable database of all licensed providers, which is an essential tool for finding available options.
What are the licensing requirements and safety regulations for childcare providers specific to Massachusetts that I should verify?
All legal childcare providers in Massachusetts must be licensed by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Key regulations parents should verify include: staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:3 for infants, 1:4 for toddlers), comprehensive background checks (CORI/SORI) for all staff, mandatory health and safety training (including CPR/first aid), and regular facility inspections. Licensed providers must also have detailed emergency preparedness plans, which are particularly relevant in Newbury for coastal storm events. You can and should ask any provider for their EEC license number and view their latest inspection reports, which note any non-compliance, online through the EEC's public portal. This transparency is a critical step in vetting any daycare or family childcare home.
Are there unique seasonal or programmatic childcare options in Newbury for school-aged children or during summer breaks?
Yes, Newbury offers several community-based options. The Newbury Parks and Recreation Department typically runs popular summer camp programs at locations like the Byfield Community Arts Center, which provide full-day childcare for school-aged children. These fill up quickly, so registration usually opens in early spring. For before- and after-school care, the Newbury Elementary School may partner with a local provider or host a program on-site; contacting the school district directly is the best source of information. Additionally, local organizations like the Newburyport YMCA (serving the region) offer extensive vacation camps and after-school programs that include transportation from some area schools. Exploring options in the broader "Triton" school district region is often necessary.
What is the difference between a daycare center and a licensed family childcare home in Newbury, and how do I decide which is right for my family?
Daycare centers in Newbury are typically larger facilities in commercial or dedicated spaces (like the First Parish Church Nursery School), offering structured classrooms by age group, multiple staff, and often a set curriculum. Family Childcare Homes (FCCs) are run by a licensed educator in their private residence, offering a mixed-age, home-like environment with potentially more flexible hours and a smaller group of children. Your choice depends on your child's needs and your logistics. Centers may offer more peer interaction and robust resources, while FCCs often provide more personalized care and may be more convenient for families in Newbury's more rural neighborhoods. Consider your commute, your child's temperament, and the provider's philosophy. Tour both types, check their EEC licenses, and ask about their daily routines, outdoor play access (important in a community with great natural spaces like parks and the waterfront), and policies on sick days and vacations.