The Best Daycare Centers in Bridgewater, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bridgewater. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bridgewater
Bright Horizons at Saline
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Saline offers a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on school readiness and whole-child development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through hands-on learning. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with natural lighting. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their partnership with local providers. The center serves many families from the Bridgewater area and is known for its strong parent communication and corporate partnership programs.
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The Goddard School of Ann Arbor
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Ann Arbor provides a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The center employs state-certified teachers with early childhood education backgrounds and offers a STEAM-focused curriculum that includes science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Their secure facility features keypad entry, live streaming for parents, and age-specific learning environments. The school emphasizes character development and social skills while maintaining small class sizes. They serve families throughout Washtenaw County, including Bridgewater residents, and are recognized for their comprehensive safety protocols and engaging enrichment programs including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure.
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Little Lambs Childcare & Preschool
Independent
Little Lambs Childcare & Preschool is a highly-regarded independent center serving the Bridgewater and surrounding communities with a faith-based approach to early childhood education. Their curriculum balances academic preparation with Christian values, focusing on kindergarten readiness through structured learning activities and play-based exploration. The center features experienced teachers with low turnover rates and maintains exceptional safety standards with secure facilities and comprehensive background checks. Their program includes outdoor learning spaces, nutritious meal programs, and extended hours to accommodate working families. The center is particularly noted for its family-like atmosphere, individualized attention, and strong community reputation for quality care and educational excellence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bridgewater, MI
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Bridgewater, Michigan, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Bridgewater, as in all of Michigan, daycare providers must be licensed by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), specifically through the Bureau of Community and Health Systems (BCHS). This applies to both family homes (caring for 1-6 unrelated children) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures facilities meet health, safety, and staff-to-child ratio standards. To verify a provider's license, you can use the official **LARA Child Care Licensing Search** tool online. You can search by name, location, or license number. It's highly recommended to check this database and review any past licensing violation reports before enrolling your child. You can also contact the local LARA office for the region for additional verification.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Bridgewater, MI?
The cost of daycare in Bridgewater and the surrounding Lenawee County area is generally more affordable than in major metropolitan areas of Michigan, but it still represents a significant household expense. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay an average of **$175 to $250 per week** for full-time care at a licensed center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), the average weekly cost ranges from **$150 to $225**. Family home daycares often offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from **$130 to $200 per week**. Costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff qualifications. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition (e.g., meals, diapers, formula).
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Bridgewater, and how far in advance should I start looking?
While Bridgewater is a smaller community, quality licensed daycare slots, especially for infants, can be limited and often have waitlists. The demand can fluctuate, but it is very common for the most sought-after centers and highly recommended home providers to have waitlists of 3 to 9 months. **We strongly advise parents to begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy, if possible.** When contacting providers, be sure to ask about their current waitlist length, the process for securing a spot (e.g., deposit), and how often they update families on their position.
What local resources or programs in Lenawee County can help me find and afford childcare in Bridgewater?
Several local resources can assist Bridgewater parents. The primary agency is **Great Start to Quality Southeast Resource Center**, which serves Lenawee County. They offer a free referral service to help you find licensed providers that match your needs. For financial assistance, you may qualify for the **Michigan Department of Education's Child Development and Care (CDC) Program** (often called the childcare subsidy). Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance. You can apply through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). Additionally, the **Lenawee Great Start Collaborative** is a community partnership focused on early childhood resources and support for families.
What are some key questions to ask a potential daycare provider during a tour in Bridgewater, given the local setting?
Beyond general questions, tailor your tour to the local context. Key questions include: * **"What is your plan for inclement weather or power outages, given our rural/small-town setting?"** (Closure policies, backup generators). * **"How do you incorporate outdoor play and nature, given the access to local parks and rural areas?"** * **"What is your staff turnover rate, and how many staff are from the Bridgewater/Adrian area?"** (Low turnover and local staff often indicate stability). * **"Can you describe your communication with parents and your policy for local field trips?"** (e.g., to the Adrian District Library or local farms). * **"Are you enrolled with the Great Start to Quality rating system?"** This Michigan-specific voluntary program rates providers on quality, giving you an additional benchmark beyond basic licensing. Always request to see the facility's current LARA license during your visit.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Bridgewater: