The Best Daycare Centers in North Dighton, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in North Dighton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in North Dighton
The Goddard School of Raynham
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Raynham 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, STEM, art, and social development with highly qualified teachers who hold degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. They maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and provide daily communication to parents about their child's activities and development. The center is known for its comprehensive safety protocols and nurturing environment that encourages children's natural curiosity.
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Little People's College - Taunton
Little People's College
Little People's College in Taunton provides a comprehensive early education program serving children from infancy through school age. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning experiences and follows Massachusetts Early Learning Guidelines. The center features developmentally appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor playgrounds, and a structured daily routine that includes literacy activities, math concepts, science exploration, and creative arts. All lead teachers hold early childhood certifications and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility maintains strict health and safety protocols, including secure entry systems and comprehensive cleaning procedures. Parents appreciate the strong communication and inclusive environment.
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Small World Child Care Center
Independent
Small World Child Care Center in nearby Rehoboth offers a nurturing, family-oriented environment with a play-based curriculum that incorporates elements of Montessori and Reggio Emilia approaches. Their program focuses on social-emotional development, early literacy, and hands-on learning experiences. The center features bright, well-equipped classrooms, natural outdoor play spaces, and small class sizes with experienced educators. They emphasize individualized attention and maintain excellent staff-to-child ratios. The center is known for its warm, inclusive atmosphere and strong parent partnerships, with regular progress updates and family involvement opportunities. Safety is prioritized with secure facilities and comprehensive emergency procedures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in North Dighton, MA
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in North Dighton, MA?
In North Dighton, parents primarily have access to three types of licensed childcare options. The most common are family childcare homes, which are licensed for up to 10 children in a residential setting and often offer a more home-like environment. There are also childcare centers, which are larger facilities, though fewer are located directly within North Dighton itself, leading many families to consider centers in neighboring towns like Taunton, Dighton, or Rehoboth. Finally, there are preschool programs, which may be part of a center or operate independently, focusing on education for children typically ages 2.9 to 5 years. All providers must be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), which sets strict standards for safety, staff qualifications, and curriculum.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in North Dighton, and are there financial assistance programs?
The cost of childcare in the North Dighton area is generally aligned with the broader Bristol County averages. For full-time infant care, you can expect to pay approximately $1,400 to $1,800 per month at a childcare center, while family childcare homes may range from $1,100 to $1,500 per month. Toddler care is slightly less, typically between $1,000 and $1,600 monthly. These costs can vary based on the program's hours, amenities, and curriculum. For financial assistance, Massachusetts offers the Income Eligible Child Care Financial Assistance program through the EEC. Additionally, many local providers participate in the state's Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) network, which can help connect eligible families with subsidy vouchers. The Bristol County Children's Advocacy Center and the United Way of Greater Fall River are also valuable local resources for support information.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in North Dighton, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists in North Dighton and the surrounding area can be significant, especially for infant care and sought-after family childcare homes. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long, and sometimes longer. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers—both in North Dighton and in adjacent communities. When you tour a facility, ask to be placed on their waitlist immediately, and understand their policy (some require a deposit). Follow up politely every few months to express continued interest. Many parents also find success by networking through local community groups on social media or parent meetups in the Dighton and Taunton areas to hear about potential openings.
What are the key state licensing regulations I should verify when touring a daycare in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts has robust regulations overseen by the EEC. Key items to verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (for infants 0-15 months, it's 1:3 or 2:7; for toddlers 15-33 months, it's 1:4 or 2:9). **Staff Qualifications**: Lead teachers must have a minimum of a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or equivalent, and directors need specific certifications. **Background Checks**: All staff must have undergone comprehensive national background checks (CORI, SORI, and fingerprint-based). **Health and Safety**: The facility must have documented emergency plans, safe sleep practices for infants, and up-to-date immunizations for children. You can and should ask to see the provider's current EEC license, which must be posted publicly, and you can even check a provider's compliance history online through the EEC's searchable licensing database.
Are there any unique local resources or programs in North Dighton to help parents find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, while North Dighton is a smaller community, it is served by regional resources. A primary resource is the **Child Care Circuit**, which is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for the Southeast Massachusetts region. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in North Dighton and the surrounding area, and can provide guidance on quality indicators, financial assistance, and parenting support. Locally, the **North Dighton Public Library** and the **Dighton Community Church** often serve as community hubs where parents share information about childcare. Additionally, the **Town of Dighton's website** may list local family childcare providers. For evaluations, always check the EEC's online licensing file for any inspection reports or non-compliance issues.