The Best Daycare Centers in North Easton, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in North Easton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in North Easton
The Children's Garden
Independent
The Children's Garden is a highly-regarded independent childcare center offering comprehensive educational programs from infancy through kindergarten. Their curriculum emphasizes nature-based learning with extensive outdoor classroom spaces, gardening activities, and environmental education. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, Massachusetts EEC-certified educators, and a play-based learning approach that incorporates Montessori and Reggio Emilia influences. Facilities include age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated art studios, and spacious indoor learning environments. The center is particularly noted for its strong parent communication, nutritious meal program, and commitment to creating a nurturing, home-like atmosphere while maintaining rigorous educational standards.
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Bright Horizons at Stonehill College
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Located on the Stonehill College campus, this Bright Horizons center offers a premium educational experience with research-based curriculum and highly qualified teaching staff. The center features the World at Their Fingers curriculum that emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on learning. Teachers hold early childhood education degrees and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes state-of-the-art security systems, age-appropriate learning centers, and extensive outdoor play spaces. Bright Horizons is known for its strong emphasis on school readiness, comprehensive safety protocols, and partnerships with families through regular progress updates and parent education resources.
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The Learning Experience - Easton
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Easton provides a structured educational program with proprietary curriculum including phonics-based early literacy, foreign language introduction, and manners/character development. The center features bright, modern classrooms equipped with interactive technology and specialized learning centers. Their L.E.A.P. curriculum focuses on school readiness through play-based activities that develop cognitive, social, and physical skills. The facility includes secure entry systems, CCTV monitoring, and USDA-approved nutrition programs. Staff members are EEC-certified with ongoing training requirements. The center is particularly praised for its consistent communication with parents through daily reports and its comprehensive approach to early childhood development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in North Easton, MA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in North Easton, MA?
In North Easton and the surrounding Bristol County area, full-time daycare costs are generally in line with the Massachusetts state average, which is among the highest in the nation. For an infant (under 15 months), you can expect to pay approximately $1,600 to $2,100 per month. For a toddler (15 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $1,400 to $1,800 per month. These rates are for licensed daycare centers; home-based family childcare may be slightly less expensive. It's important to note that many facilities in this area have annual registration or supply fees. We recommend contacting the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) or using their online search tool to find specific, up-to-date pricing for licensed providers in the 02356 zip code.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in North Easton, and when should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, waitlists at highly-regarded centers in North Easton can be significant. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for infant rooms. We strongly advise parents to begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the first trimester of pregnancy. Many centers in the area, such as those affiliated with local schools or the Hockomock Area YMCA, manage their waitlists through the Massachusetts EEC's Centralized Waiting List, but you should also contact individual providers directly to inquire about their specific process and timeline.
What are the key differences between a licensed daycare center and a licensed family childcare home in North Easton?
Both are licensed and regulated by the Massachusetts EEC, but they operate differently. **Daycare Centers** (like those in commercial buildings) typically have multiple classrooms, more staff, and structured curricula. They may offer more amenities and have stricter teacher-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:3 for infants). **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate out of a provider's residence in North Easton. They offer a mixed-age, home-like environment with smaller groups (up to 10 children, including the provider's own). Ratios are also strict (e.g., 2 infants per provider). Family childcare can offer more flexibility in hours and may be closer to your home. The right choice depends on your child's temperament, your schedule, and your preference for environment. You can verify the license and review inspection reports for any provider on the EEC website.
Are there any local resources or programs in North Easton that help subsidize the cost of childcare?
Yes, there are several resources. The primary program is the Massachusetts **Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA)** voucher, administered by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Eligibility is based on family income, size, and need (e.g., working, attending school). You can apply online through the state's virtual gateway. Additionally, some North Easton employers may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). It's also worth checking with local organizations like the **Hockomock Area YMCA** (which has a branch in nearby North Attleboro) about potential sliding-scale fees or scholarship opportunities for their early learning programs. The **Self-Help Inc.** agency, which serves the Brockton area including North Easton, may also provide support and referrals.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare facility in North Easton, and what questions are specific to Massachusetts regulations?
During a tour, observe cleanliness, child engagement, and staff-child interactions. Specifically for Massachusetts, ask these key questions: 1) "Can I see your current EEC license and recent inspection reports?" (These should be publicly posted). 2) "What is your staff turnover rate, and what are the qualifications of the lead teachers?" (EEC sets minimum qualifications). 3) "How do you handle outdoor play, especially in winter?" (MA regulations require daily outdoor time unless weather is prohibitive). 4) "What is your sick policy and exclusion policy?" (MA has specific guidelines for fever, vomiting, etc.). 5) "What is your emergency preparedness plan for events like snowstorms or power outages?" Given North Easton's location, also inquire about drop-off/pick-up logistics and if they have any partnerships with local North Easton schools for pre-K transitions.