The Best Daycare Centers in Roxbury, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Roxbury. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Roxbury
Ellis Early Learning
Ellis Memorial and Eldredge House
Ellis Early Learning provides high-quality early childhood education with a focus on inclusive, play-based learning. Their curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities. The center features highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education, low student-teacher ratios, and comprehensive family support services. They offer bilingual programming and maintain strong safety protocols with secure entry systems and regular health inspections. Their South End location serves Roxbury families with flexible scheduling options and nutritious meal programs.
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United South End Settlements Early Education Center
United South End Settlements
USES provides comprehensive early childhood education with a trauma-informed approach and focus on whole-family support. Their NAEYC-accredited program features developmentally appropriate curriculum, outdoor learning spaces, and experienced educators with advanced certifications. The center offers extended hours, culturally responsive teaching, and strong parent communication systems. They maintain excellent safety records with certified CPR/first aid staff and secure facilities. Their location near Roxbury serves diverse families with sliding scale tuition and wraparound services.
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Horizons for Homeless Children - Roxbury Early Education Center
Horizons for Homeless Children
Horizons for Homeless Children operates a state-of-the-art early education center specifically designed to support children experiencing homelessness. Their research-based curriculum focuses on trauma-informed care, social-emotional development, and school readiness. The facility features highly trained specialists, therapeutic play spaces, and comprehensive family support services. With low child-staff ratios and master's level educators, they provide individualized attention and developmental tracking. The center maintains exceptional safety standards with secure environments and health-focused protocols, serving Roxbury families with wrap-around services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Roxbury, MA
What are the typical costs for infant and toddler daycare in Roxbury, MA, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Roxbury, the cost of full-time daycare for infants and toddlers typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,500+ per month, which is in line with the high costs seen across Boston. Several local and state programs can help offset these expenses. The Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) administers the state's childcare subsidy (voucher) program for income-eligible families. Additionally, the City of Boston's Office of Early Childhood offers resources and may have specific initiatives for residents. It's highly recommended to apply for subsidies early, as waitlists exist. Many centers in Roxbury also offer sliding scale fees or scholarships, so be sure to inquire directly during your search.
How can I find licensed and high-quality daycare providers in Roxbury, and what should I look for during a tour?
The best starting point is the Massachusetts EEC online search tool, which allows you to filter for licensed providers in Roxbury (02118, 02119, 02120). Look for programs with a "QRIS" (Quality Rating and Improvement System) rating; a Level 3 or 4 indicates a high-quality program. During a tour in Roxbury, ask about staff qualifications and turnover, the curriculum's cultural responsiveness to the community, outdoor play space safety, and their policies for communication and inclusion. Observe if children are engaged and if the environment is clean and stimulating. Don't hesitate to ask for references from current Roxbury parents.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Roxbury, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for infant and toddler spots in Roxbury, especially for highly sought-after centers and family childcare homes. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists at least 6 to 12 months before your needed start date, and even earlier if possible. Some popular providers may have waitlists exceeding a year. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their waitlist process, any associated fees, and how often they update families on their position. Casting a wide net to include both centers and licensed family childcare providers in and around Roxbury can increase your chances of securing a spot.
What types of childcare options are most available in Roxbury—centers, family childcare, or public preschool?
Roxbury offers a mix of options. There are several daycare centers, both independent and part of larger networks. Licensed Family Child Care (FCC) homes are also a prevalent and valued option, often offering smaller group sizes and more flexible hours. For 3- and 4-year-olds, Boston Public Schools (BPS) offers free, high-quality K1 (pre-kindergarten) and K2 programs. However, BPS preschool has its own application and lottery process, and space is not guaranteed. Many community-based organizations in Roxbury also run early learning programs. Exploring all three types—centers, FCC homes, and public preschool—is key to finding the best fit.
What are the state licensing requirements for daycare staff in Massachusetts, and how does this impact safety and quality in Roxbury programs?
Massachusetts EEC sets strict licensing standards. Lead teachers in a center-based program must have at least an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field, and directors must have a Bachelor's degree. All staff must pass comprehensive background checks (CORI, SORI, DCF), be trained in First Aid/CPR, and complete ongoing professional development. Staff-to-child ratios are enforced (e.g., 1:3 for infants, 1:4 for toddlers). These regulations ensure a baseline of safety and quality. In Roxbury, you can verify a program's license status and any history of violations through the EEC website. Choosing a licensed provider is non-negotiable for your child's safety.
Nearby Cities
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