The Best Daycare Centers in Sharon, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sharon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sharon
Bright Horizons at Sharon Hospital
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Located adjacent to Sharon Hospital, this NAEYC-accredited center offers a comprehensive early education curriculum with strong emphasis on STEM learning, literacy development, and social-emotional growth. Features highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education, secure facility access with biometric entry, and nutritious meal programs. The center is particularly noted for its innovative "World at Their Fingertips" curriculum and strong parent communication through daily digital updates and regular developmental assessments.
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The Goddard School of Sharon
Goddard Systems, Inc.
This FLEX Learning Program-based center provides play-based learning with structured academic preparation. Features low student-teacher ratios, state-certified educators, and purpose-built classrooms with advanced security systems. The curriculum emphasizes language development, creative expression, and problem-solving skills. Notable for its indoor gymnasium, extensive outdoor playgrounds, and enrichment programs including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure. Parents praise the consistent communication and individualized attention to each child's developmental needs.
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KinderCare at Stoughton
KinderCare Learning Companies
Serving the Sharon community from nearby Stoughton, this nationally accredited center offers research-based curriculum with strong focus on literacy, math, and science. Features highly trained teachers with ongoing professional development, secure keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. The center is particularly strong in kindergarten readiness programs and offers flexible scheduling options. Parents consistently highlight the warm, nurturing environment, experienced staff longevity, and excellent communication about child progress and daily activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sharon, MA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Sharon, MA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Sharon, MA, full-time daycare for infants typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,400 per month, while toddler and preschool programs generally cost between $1,500 and $2,000 per month. These costs are influenced by factors such as the program's curriculum (e.g., Montessori), staff-to-child ratios, and facility amenities. For financial assistance, Massachusetts offers the state-subsidized Child Care Voucher Program (also known as Income Eligible Child Care) through the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Eligibility is based on family size and income. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's highly recommended to contact the Sharon Early Childhood Center or the town's Family & Community Engagement Coordinator for guidance on local resources and application processes.
How long are the waitlists for daycare centers in Sharon, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Waitlists for licensed daycare centers and highly-regarded preschools in Sharon can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. Popular centers like the Sharon Cooperative School or programs at the Sharon Community Center often fill up quickly. To improve your chances, it's advisable to get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. When contacting a center, ask specific questions about their list: Is there a fee to join? How often is it updated? Do they offer guaranteed enrollment for siblings of current students? Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Sharon neighborhoods, as they may have more immediate availability and offer a smaller setting.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Massachusetts, and how can I verify a Sharon 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 requirements include background record checks (CORI/SORI) for all staff, specific health and safety training (including First Aid/CPR), annual professional development, and adherence to strict staff-to-child ratios and group sizes based on age. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the EEC's online **Search for Child Care** tool. This public portal allows you to search by town (Sharon) and view the provider's license status, capacity, any non-compliance reports from recent inspections, and their quality rating if they participate in the state's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). Always visit a potential provider and ask to see their current license.
Are there part-time or flexible childcare options available in Sharon for parents who don't need full-time care?
Yes, Sharon offers several part-time and flexible childcare options. Many preschool programs offer half-day sessions (e.g., 9 AM-12 PM) for children aged 2.9 years and older, often with options for 2, 3, or 5 days a week. The **Sharon Community Center** frequently runs preschool enrichment programs and seasonal camps. For more flexible or occasional care, consider licensed family childcare homes, which may offer more adaptable schedules than larger centers. Additionally, "drop-in" or flexible care is sometimes available through networks like **Sittercity** or **Care.com**, where you can find local, background-checked babysitters. For school-age children, the Sharon Public Schools district offers fee-based before- and after-school programs at the elementary schools, which provide reliable coverage on school days.
What resources are available in Sharon to help me tour and evaluate the quality of different childcare programs?
Sharon parents have several local resources to aid their search. First, use the **Massachusetts EEC Child Care Search** tool as a starting point. The **Sharon Public Schools** website often lists community preschool programs, and the **Sharon Community Center** is a hub for activity information. When evaluating a program, look for signs of quality beyond basic licensing: ask about staff turnover (low turnover is better), observe how teachers interact with children, check for a clean and safe environment with engaging materials, and inquire about their curriculum and philosophy. The state's **QRIS** rating (a 1-4 scale) is a key indicator; a Level 3 or 4 program meets high standards. Don't hesitate to ask for parent references from current families. Finally, connecting with local parent groups on social media (e.g., Sharon, MA Facebook groups) can provide invaluable firsthand recommendations and insights.