The Best Daycare Centers in Roslindale, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Roslindale. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Roslindale
The Goddard School of Roslindale
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Roslindale offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their play-based curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play spaces. All teachers hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and provides regular progress reports to parents.
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Bright Horizons at Roslindale
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Roslindale provides a research-based World at Their Fingertips curriculum that emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social-emotional development. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, dedicated age-specific learning environments, and natural outdoor playgrounds. Their educators hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive continuous training. The program includes daily communication with parents through electronic reports, nutritious meals and snacks, and enrichment activities like music and movement. The center is known for its strong emphasis on creating a nurturing, inclusive environment.
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Tiny Giants Early Learning Center
Independent
Tiny Giants Early Learning Center offers a play-based, emergent curriculum that follows children's interests while incorporating early literacy, mathematics, and social skills. The center emphasizes nature-based learning with garden activities and outdoor exploration. Their facility includes secure access, modern classrooms with natural materials, and developmentally appropriate learning centers. The teaching staff includes experienced early childhood educators with bachelor's degrees and specialized training in Reggio-inspired approaches. The center is particularly noted for its strong community feel, individualized attention to each child, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Roslindale, MA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Roslindale, MA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Roslindale, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,400 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $1,600 to $2,100 per month. These costs can vary based on the type of program (center-based vs. home-based), specific curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Massachusetts offers the state-subsidized Child Care Voucher Program (also known as Income Eligible Child Care), administered through the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Eligibility is based on family size and income. Additionally, many Roslindale providers participate in this system. Parents should also inquire directly with local centers about potential sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. The City of Boston's Office of Early Childhood can provide guidance and application support for Boston residents, which includes Roslindale.
How long are typical waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Roslindale, and what can I do to improve my chances of securing a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded licensed daycare centers in Roslindale can be substantial, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest capacity limits. To improve your chances, it's recommended to start your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. Be proactive: follow up with centers every 2-3 months to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in the surrounding Roslindale neighborhoods, as they may have shorter wait times and offer a smaller, home-like setting. Utilizing the Massachusetts EEC's online search tool for licensed providers can help you identify all available options in the 02131 zip code and nearby areas.
Are there any unique early education programs or philosophies commonly found in Roslindale daycare centers?
Yes, Roslindale's diverse community is reflected in its childcare options. You'll find centers offering a variety of approaches. Several providers incorporate elements of nature-based or outdoor education, taking advantage of local resources like the Arnold Arboretum and Stony Brook Reservation for regular outdoor exploration. Montessori programs are also well-represented in the area. Furthermore, due to Boston's strong focus on cultural and linguistic diversity, some centers offer bilingual (often Spanish-English) immersion programs or incorporate multicultural curricula. It's always best to visit and ask about a center's specific educational philosophy to see if it aligns with your family's values.
What are the licensing and safety regulations for daycare providers in Massachusetts, and how can I verify a Roslindale provider's compliance?
All childcare providers in Massachusetts caring for children from outside their own family must be licensed by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Key regulations include strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:3 for infants, 1:4 for toddlers), background record checks (CORI/SORI) for all staff, health and safety training, and regular facility inspections. To verify a Roslindale provider's license and compliance history, you can use the **EEC's online Licensed Child Care Search tool**. This public database allows you to search by program name or location and view their license status, capacity, any reported violations, and inspection reports. Always choose a licensed provider and don't hesitate to ask a center director for their most recent EEC review summary during your tour.
What options exist for backup or emergency childcare in Roslindale if my regular provider is closed or my child is mildly ill?
Finding backup care in Roslindale can be challenging but there are a few local strategies. First, check if your primary daycare center is part of a larger network (like a YMCA or Bright Horizons) that may offer backup care at another affiliated location. Some local licensed family childcare homes may accept drop-in care if they have space. For children with mild, non-contagious illnesses, specialized "sick child" care is very limited in Massachusetts, but it's worth inquiring with larger healthcare systems like Boston Children's Hospital, though they are not in Roslindale proper. The most reliable solution is often to develop a network with other local parents for mutual aid or to use a reputable babysitting service that vets its caregivers. Planning ahead and having a shortlist of trusted babysitters is crucial for Roslindale parents.
Nearby Cities
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