The Best Daycare Centers in Salisbury, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Salisbury. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Salisbury
Bright Horizons at Andover
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Andover is a highly-regarded early education center serving families throughout the North Shore region, including Salisbury. The center follows the World at Their Fingertips curriculum, which emphasizes hands-on learning, literacy development, and STEAM activities. Features include degreed teachers with early childhood certifications, low student-teacher ratios, secure entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. The facility offers age-appropriate learning environments with dedicated infant rooms, toddler discovery areas, and preschool learning centers. Parents consistently praise the qualified staff, engaging curriculum, and excellent communication systems.
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The Children's Place at Port Plaza
Independent
Located just minutes from Salisbury in neighboring Newburyport, The Children's Place offers a nurturing environment with a play-based educational approach. The center features experienced early childhood educators, many with advanced degrees, and maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. Their curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, early literacy, and kindergarten readiness skills. The facility includes secure indoor learning spaces, outdoor playgrounds, and developmentally appropriate materials. Parents highlight the warm, family-like atmosphere, consistent communication, and the center's commitment to individualized attention for each child.
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Kindercare Learning Center - Seabrook
KinderCare Education
This KinderCare location in nearby Seabrook, NH serves many Massachusetts families from Salisbury and surrounding communities. The center offers a comprehensive early childhood program with balanced learning approaches that blend academic preparation with social development. Features include proprietary Early Foundations curriculum, phonics-based literacy programs, and hands-on math and science activities. The center maintains strict safety protocols with secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Parents appreciate the structured daily routines, qualified teaching staff, and the center's focus on preparing children for elementary school success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Salisbury, MA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Salisbury, MA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Salisbury and the surrounding North Shore area, full-time daycare for infants typically ranges from $1,600 to $2,200 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $1,400 to $1,900 per month. These costs reflect the high demand and operational expenses in Massachusetts. For financial assistance, Massachusetts offers the Income Eligible Child Care (IEEC) voucher program through the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Eligibility is based on family size and income. Additionally, many local centers in Salisbury may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's highly recommended to contact the EEC directly or inquire with individual providers about potential openings in subsidized slots.
How long are typical waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Salisbury, and when should I start looking?
Waitlists for high-quality, licensed daycare centers in Salisbury can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant rooms which have strict staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. Many popular centers in town, such as those affiliated with local schools or community organizations, have the longest lists. When touring, always ask about the current list length, their policy for moving up the list, and if they require a deposit to hold a spot.
What are the licensing requirements for home-based family childcare providers in Salisbury, and how can I verify a provider's license?
All family childcare providers in Salisbury must be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Licensing ensures they meet health, safety, and educational standards, including background checks (CORI/SORI), first-aid/CPR certification, home safety inspections, and limits on the number of children (typically 6-10, including their own). You can verify a provider's license status, view their compliance history, and see any licensing actions by using the "Find Child Care" search tool on the EEC's official website. Always ask to see their current license during a visit.
Are there any unique childcare options in Salisbury that take advantage of its coastal location?
Yes, Salisbury's unique environment offers some distinctive childcare experiences. Several local providers and preschools incorporate "nature-based" or outdoor learning into their curriculum, taking advantage of nearby natural resources like Salisbury Beach State Reservation, the salt marshes, and local parks for exploration and science activities. While not a formal "beach school," these programs emphasize outdoor play and environmental education more than a standard urban daycare might. Additionally, some summer camp programs in the area offer marine biology or coastal ecology themes. When touring, ask about daily outdoor time and how they utilize the local environment.
What should I look for when touring a daycare facility in Salisbury, and are there any local resources for comparing options?
When touring a daycare in Salisbury, look for: a valid EEC license posted; clean, safe, and well-organized spaces; a low staff-to-child ratio (MA law requires 1:3 for infants, 1:4 for toddlers); engaged and qualified staff; a clear daily schedule; and secure outdoor play areas. Ask about their policies on sick children, communication with parents, and their educational philosophy. For local comparisons, start with the EEC's online search tool. Also, consult the "North Shore Parents" or "Salisbury, MA Community" Facebook groups for firsthand parent recommendations and reviews. The Salisbury Public Library may also have community bulletin boards with local provider information.