The Best Daycare Centers in Somerset, MA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Somerset. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Somerset
Kiddie Academy of Somerset
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Somerset offers a comprehensive educational curriculum through their Life Essentials® program, focusing on character development, STEM learning, and social-emotional growth. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive camera monitoring. Highly qualified teachers implement age-appropriate lesson plans with low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility includes dedicated age-specific classrooms, indoor gross motor play area, and secure outdoor playgrounds. Their nutrition program provides balanced meals and snacks following USDA guidelines. Parents appreciate the regular communication through the mobile app with daily activity reports and photos.
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Bright Horizons at Fall River
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Fall River serves Somerset families with their World at Their Fingers® curriculum that emphasizes emergent, project-based learning. The center features highly educated teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education and ongoing professional development. Their Emergent Curriculum adapts to children's interests while meeting developmental milestones. The facility includes dedicated art studios, literacy-rich classrooms, and natural outdoor learning environments. Enhanced safety protocols include secure check-in systems, comprehensive background checks, and health screening procedures. The center offers flexible scheduling and maintains NAEYC accreditation standards.
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Children's Garden Learning Center
Independent
Children's Garden Learning Center provides a nurturing, play-based educational environment with a strong focus on social development and school readiness. The center employs experienced early childhood educators who implement Creative Curriculum with hands-on learning centers. Their facility features spacious classrooms, large outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment, and dedicated art and music spaces. The center emphasizes inclusive practices and maintains small class sizes with optimal teacher-to-child ratios. Their comprehensive program includes kindergarten preparation with phonics, mathematics, and social studies components. Parents consistently praise the warm, family-like atmosphere and strong communication between staff and families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Somerset, MA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Somerset, MA?
In Somerset, MA, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the type of program and the child's age. For center-based infant care, parents can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month. For toddler care (ages 2-3), costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Home-based daycare (family childcare) is often more affordable, averaging $900 to $1,300 monthly for full-time care. These rates are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that Somerset is in Bristol County, where costs can be slightly lower than in the Greater Boston area, but still represent a significant portion of a family's budget. Many providers in Somerset offer limited slots, so early inquiry is recommended.
How do I verify a daycare or preschool is properly licensed in Somerset, and what are the key state regulations I should know?
All childcare programs in Somerset must be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the EEC's online search tool or calling their office. Key Massachusetts regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:3 for infants, 1:4 for toddlers, 1:10 for preschoolers), comprehensive background checks (CORI/SORI) for all staff, and required health and safety training. Licensed programs in Somerset undergo unannounced visits to ensure compliance. Always ask a provider for their EEC license number and confirm it's active. The EEC also sets standards for curriculum, staff qualifications, and physical environment.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Somerset, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many daycare centers and highly-regarded family childcare homes in Somerset, especially for infant and toddler slots. Due to high demand and limited capacity, it is strongly advised to begin your search during pregnancy or at least 6 to 12 months before your needed start date. Some popular centers may have waitlists exceeding a year. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their waitlist process, any fees to join, and how often they update families on their position. Exploring multiple options—including centers, family childcare, and programs in neighboring towns like Swansea or Fall River—can increase your chances of securing a spot.
What resources are available in Somerset to help lower-income families afford quality childcare?
Somerset families have access to state and federal financial assistance programs. The primary resource is the Massachusetts Child Care Financial Assistance (voucher) program, administered by the EEC. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and need (such as employment or education). You can apply through the Department of Transitional Assistance or a local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency. Additionally, some Somerset daycare providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. For local guidance, parents can contact the Child Care Works program through the Southeast Region, which serves Bristol County. Some employers in the area may also offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically within the town of Somerset, MA?
Somerset offers several types of licensed childcare options. These include: 1. **Childcare Centers**: Larger facilities like small local chains or independent centers that offer structured programs for multiple age groups, often with extended hours. 2. **Family Childcare Homes**: Licensed providers who care for a smaller group of children (up to 10) in their own residence, often offering a more home-like environment and flexible hours. These are numerous in Somerset's residential neighborhoods. 3. **Public Preschool Programs**: Somerset Public Schools may offer integrated preschool programs for children ages 3-5, which sometimes include both typical and special education peers. These are typically part-day and may have specific eligibility requirements. 4. **Private Preschools/PK Programs**: Often attached to religious or independent organizations, offering part-day or full-day options for children 2.9 years and older. There are no large corporate daycare chains within Somerset itself, making local, smaller providers the norm. Many parents also consider options in adjacent communities for more choices.