The Best Daycare Centers in Randolph, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Randolph. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Randolph
Bright Horizons at Braintree
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Braintree is a highly-regarded early education center serving families throughout the South Shore region, including Randolph. The center implements the World at Their Fingers curriculum, which emphasizes language and literacy, math and science, social-emotional development, and creative arts. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents praise the center's comprehensive communication system, nutritious meal program, and strong focus on school readiness skills.
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Kiddie Academy of Stoughton
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Stoughton serves families in Randolph and surrounding communities with their Life Essentials curriculum that balances education, play, and character development. The academy features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure keypad entry systems, and modern facilities with interactive learning centers. Their program includes STEM activities, Spanish language exposure, music and movement, and technology-integrated learning. The center is noted for its strong safety protocols, daily parent communication through an app, and emphasis on social-emotional learning. They offer flexible scheduling options and maintain excellent staff retention rates.
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The Goddard School of Stoughton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Stoughton provides high-quality early childhood education to families in Randolph and the greater Stoughton area. Their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program combines academic learning with play-based activities, focusing on literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies. The school features degreed teachers, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Special programs include yoga, music enrichment, and hands-on science experiments. Parents consistently praise the school's clean facilities, experienced staff, and comprehensive approach to child development that prepares children for elementary school success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Randolph, MA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Randolph, MA?
In Randolph, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the type of program and the child's age. For center-based infant care (6 weeks to 15 months), you can expect to pay between $1,800 to $2,300 per month. Toddler care (15 months to 3 years) typically ranges from $1,600 to $2,000 per month. Home-based family childcare is often more affordable, averaging $1,400 to $1,800 for infants and $1,200 to $1,600 for toddlers. These rates are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that Massachusetts is one of the more expensive states for childcare, but Randolph can be slightly more affordable than neighboring cities like Boston or Quincy. Many providers in Randolph participate in the state's subsidized childcare program through the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) for eligible families.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Randolph, and how can I secure a spot?
Waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Randolph, particularly for infant rooms, can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for highly sought-after programs. This is due to strict state-mandated staff-to-infant ratios (1:3 or 1:4) limiting capacity. To improve your chances, it's recommended to begin your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. When contacting centers, ask specific questions: their current waitlist length, if they charge a waitlist fee (typically $25-$100, non-refundable), and how often they update the list. Many Randolph centers also give priority to siblings of current enrollees or families already in their program. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Randolph, which may have shorter wait times and offer a smaller setting.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Randolph, and how can I verify a provider's status?
All childcare providers in Randolph caring for children from multiple families must be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Licensing ensures compliance with critical health, safety, and educational standards, including background checks (CORI/SORI) for all staff, safe physical environments, age-appropriate curriculum, and required staff training in CPR/first aid and early childhood education. You can verify a provider's license status, view their compliance history, and read any inspection reports online through the EEC's public-facing "Search for Child Care" website. Simply enter the provider's name or Randolph's zip code. Always choose a licensed provider, as this is your primary assurance of accountability and meeting state standards.
Are there any unique local resources or programs in Randolph to help parents find and afford childcare?
Yes, Randolph offers several local resources. The **Randolph Public Schools** district operates integrated preschool programs that may provide options for 3- and 4-year-olds. The town is also served by the **Child Care Circuit**, a regional resource and referral agency funded by the EEC, which offers free, personalized assistance in finding licensed care and navigating financial aid options. For affordability, beyond state subsidies, some Randolph providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. Additionally, the **Randolph Community Partnership** and local family centers often host events and maintain networks that can connect parents with trusted home-based providers. Checking the Town of Randolph's official website for community services is also a good starting point.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare center or family childcare home in Randolph?
When touring a facility in Randolph, go beyond the basics. Observe the **interactions**: Are caregivers engaged at the children's level, speaking warmly and responding to needs? Check for **safety and cleanliness**: Are outlets covered, is the space clutter-free, and are cleaning supplies locked away? Ask about their **daily schedule** and philosophy—does it align with your values? Inquire about **staff qualifications and turnover**; low turnover indicates a positive work environment. For Randolph specifically, ask about their **emergency procedures** and communication policies, especially regarding local weather events or other incidents. Finally, trust your instincts about the overall feel of the environment and don't hesitate to ask for references from current Randolph parents.