The Best Daycare Centers in Sherwood, OR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sherwood. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sherwood
The Goddard School of Sherwood
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Sherwood offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their play-based curriculum incorporates STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains low student-teacher ratios to ensure personalized attention.
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Kiddie Academy of Sherwood
Kiddie Academy International
Kiddie Academy of Sherwood utilizes their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that integrates character education with academic readiness. The program emphasizes STEM activities, literacy development, and social skills through hands-on learning experiences. The center features secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and nutritionally balanced meals. Their educated staff maintains CPR and First Aid certifications, with many holding advanced degrees in early childhood education. The academy focuses on creating a nurturing environment that promotes independence and prepares children for elementary school success.
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Primrose School of Tualatin
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Tualatin serves the Sherwood community with their Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their research-based curriculum includes literacy, math, science, and social studies, complemented by character development and arts programs. The school features secure entry systems, indoor gymnasiums, and age-specific outdoor learning environments. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains rigorous health and safety standards. Primrose is known for its strong parent communication and comprehensive approach to whole-child development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sherwood, OR
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Sherwood, Oregon?
In Sherwood, the cost of full-time childcare varies based on the child's age and the type of program. For infants (0-2 years), you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers and preschoolers (2-5 years), monthly fees typically range from $1,100 to $1,500. In-home licensed family childcare is often slightly less expensive, ranging from $900 to $1,300 monthly. These rates are generally in line with the Portland metro area but can be influenced by specific program features like curriculum, staff-to-child ratios, and included meals. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as diapers, wipes, and snacks.
How long are waitlists for quality daycare centers in Sherwood, and how can I improve my chances of securing a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Sherwood can be significant, especially for infant care. It's not uncommon for families to be on a waitlist for 6 to 12 months, and some popular providers may have closed waitlists. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Get on multiple waitlists, even if a center isn't your top choice. Follow up with providers every 2-3 months to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Sherwood and nearby communities like Tualatin or Newberg, as they may have more immediate openings and often offer a smaller, home-like setting.
What are the key Oregon state licensing requirements I should verify when touring a daycare in Sherwood?
All childcare providers in Sherwood must be licensed through the Oregon Early Learning Division (ELD). Key requirements to verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers, 1:10 for preschoolers), **Background Checks** for all staff and household members in a home setting, and **Health and Safety Training** including CPR/First Aid and safe sleep practices for infants. Licensed providers must also meet specific standards for indoor/outdoor space, sanitation, and nutrition. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious compliance history on the ELD's online **Child Care Licensing Lookup** tool. Don't hesitate to ask a provider for their license number.
Are there any local Sherwood resources or programs to help parents afford childcare?
Yes, there are several resources available. The primary program is **Employment Related Day Care (ERDC)** through the Oregon Department of Human Services, which provides subsidy assistance to working families, those in school, or in job training based on income. Additionally, the **Sherwood School District** offers tuition-based preschool programs that may be more affordable than private centers. Some local churches and community organizations also host preschools with sliding scale fees. For direct referrals and help navigating options, parents can contact the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington Counties**, which serves the Sherwood area.
What are the options for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Sherwood?
While full-time care is most common, part-time and flexible options do exist in Sherwood. Many preschools offer half-day programs (morning or afternoon sessions) for children ages 3-5, typically 2-3 days per week. Some licensed family childcare homes may offer more flexible arrangements, such as care for specific weekdays only. For occasional or backup care, you can explore services like **UrbanSitter** or **Care.com** to find local, vetted babysitters. Another option is to inquire at local fitness centers (like the Sherwood Regional Family YMCA) which often provide member childcare for a few hours at a time. Be sure to communicate your specific schedule needs clearly during tours, as flexibility varies greatly by provider.
Childcare Insights for Sherwood
Finding the right childcare is one of the most important decisions a family makes, and for parents in Sherwood, Oregon, the search for a nurturing "family day care near me" is often the first step toward balancing work and family life. Family day care, provided in a caregiver's home, offers a unique, home-like setting that can be an ideal fit for young children, blending the comfort of a smaller group with structured learning and socialization. In our close-knit Sherwood community, this model often feels like an extension of your own family network, which is a wonderful benefit to consider.
When beginning your search in Sherwood, it’s helpful to understand the local landscape. Oregon’s Office of Child Care licenses both registered and certified family childcare providers, ensuring they meet health, safety, and developmental standards. You can verify a provider’s license status online, which is a crucial first step. Beyond licensing, consider what makes Sherwood special. Many providers here take full advantage of our beautiful surroundings, incorporating outdoor play in their backyards, planning walks to nearby parks like Stella Olsen Park or the Sherwood Sports Park, and fostering a love for nature that aligns with our Pacific Northwest lifestyle. This local flavor is something to ask about during your visits.
Your search should start close to home, both literally and figuratively. Talk to neighbors in your Sherwood subdivision or other parents at the Sherwood Family YMCA or local playgrounds. Personal recommendations are gold in a community like ours. Online platforms and local parent groups on social media, such as those specific to Sherwood or the Tualatin Valley, can also provide leads and honest reviews. Once you have a few names, schedule in-person visits. This is your chance to see the daily rhythm. Observe how the provider interacts with the children, ask about their daily schedule, and inquire about their philosophy on discipline, learning, and screen time. Notice if the space is safe, clean, and filled with engaging toys and books. Trust your instincts about the warmth and professionalism of the environment.
Don’t forget the practicalities specific to our area. Discuss policies for late pick-ups, especially if your commute involves Highway 99 or the I-5 corridor, which can be unpredictable. Ask about their involvement in local events, like the annual Sherwood Robin Hood Festival, or if they do drop-ins at the Sherwood Public Library for story time. These connections help integrate your child into the fabric of our town. Finally, ensure the logistical details align. Confirm their hours match your schedule, understand their sick policy, and get clarity on costs. Finding the right family day care in Sherwood is about more than just convenience; it’s about finding a partner in your child’s early years who provides a safe, stimulating, and loving foundation right here in our community. Taking the time to find that perfect fit will bring invaluable peace of mind as your child grows and thrives.