The Best Daycare Centers in Washington, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Washington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Washington
The Goddard School of Washington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Washington offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their state-licensed teachers implement play-based learning activities while focusing on social, emotional, and cognitive development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. They emphasize STEM learning, literacy development, and character education while maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios. The center provides nutritious meals and offers enrichment programs including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure.
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Kiddie Academy of Rochester Hills
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Rochester Hills serves the Washington area with their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and school readiness. Their certified teachers create hands-on learning experiences in purpose-built classrooms with modern educational technology. The academy features secure keypad entry, indoor gymnasium, and age-separated playgrounds. Their program includes Spanish language exposure, music and movement activities, and comprehensive kindergarten preparation. They maintain strict health and safety protocols including thorough cleaning procedures and staff background checks. Parent communication includes daily activity reports and regular progress updates.
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Rainbow Child Care Center of Sterling Heights
Rainbow Child Care Center
Rainbow Child Care Center in Sterling Heights provides comprehensive early childhood education with their proprietary curriculum that emphasizes literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional development. The center features secure facilities with camera monitoring, commercial-grade playground equipment, and dedicated learning centers in each classroom. Their highly-qualified teaching staff includes educators with degrees in early childhood education who implement developmentally appropriate practices. The program includes music enrichment, physical education, and hands-on science activities. They maintain excellent staff-to-child ratios and offer flexible scheduling options including full-time and part-time care with extended hours for working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Washington, MI
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Washington, MI, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Washington, MI, and the surrounding Macomb County area, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $225 to $325 per week, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $200 to $275 per week. These rates can vary based on the type of facility (center-based vs. in-home), its amenities, and curriculum. For financial assistance, Michigan's Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) administers the Child Development and Care (CDC) subsidy program for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance requirements. Additionally, local organizations like the Macomb Intermediate School District may have resources or referrals for assistance. It's highly recommended to contact providers directly for their exact rates and inquire about any potential sibling discounts.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Washington, MI?
All licensed childcare providers in Michigan are regulated by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Bureau of Community and Health Systems. To verify a provider's license and view their compliance history, you can use the official **LARA Child Care Licensing Search** tool available online. This public database allows you to search by provider name, location (including Washington, MI), or license number. It will show the license status, capacity, ages served, and any past violations or corrective action plans. For an in-home provider, ensure they are listed as a "licensed family home" or "licensed group home." Always cross-reference this information with a personal visit and ask the provider directly about their licensing and any recent inspections.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Washington, MI, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are quite common for daycare centers, especially for infant rooms, in Washington and the broader Metro Detroit region. Due to high demand and limited infant-to-staff ratios required by Michigan law, popular centers often have waitlists ranging from 3 to 9 months, or even longer. It is strongly advised to begin your search and tour facilities **at least 6-12 months before your needed start date**. For more immediate needs, expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in residential areas of Washington may yield shorter wait times. When contacting centers, ask specifically about their waitlist policy, any fees to join, and how often they update families on their position.
What are the key differences between a licensed childcare center and a licensed in-home family daycare in Washington, MI?
The main differences lie in setting, scale, and structure. **Licensed Childcare Centers** in Washington are typically commercial facilities with multiple classrooms, a larger staff, and structured educational curricula (like Montessori or faith-based programs). They often have more resources and amenities but can be more expensive and have longer waitlists. **Licensed Family/Group Homes** operate out of a provider's residence, offering a smaller, home-like environment with mixed-age groups. They often provide more flexible hours and may be more affordable, but they have a smaller capacity (6-12 children depending on license type). Both are regulated by the same state licensing rules for health, safety, and staff-to-child ratios. The best choice depends on your child's personality, your schedule, and your preference for environment.
Beyond basic licensing, what quality indicators should I look for when touring daycare options in Washington?
While licensing ensures minimum standards, look for these quality indicators during tours: **1. Accreditation:** Seek centers accredited by national bodies like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or Michigan's own Great Start to Quality rating system (a 4-star scale). **2. Staff Tenure:** Low staff turnover indicates a positive work environment and consistent care for your child. **3. Communication:** Ask about daily reports, parent-teacher conferences, and their policy on open communication. **4. Safety & Cleanliness:** Observe secure entry procedures, cleanliness of toys and surfaces, and clearly posted emergency plans. **5. Curriculum & Engagement:** Look for evidence of age-appropriate, play-based learning and engaged, interactive staff—not just television time. In Washington, many high-quality providers participate in the Great Start to Quality program, which provides a publicly available quality rating.