The Best Daycare Centers in Glendale, RI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Glendale. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Glendale
Kiddie Academy of Smithfield
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Smithfield provides comprehensive educational childcare with a proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and creative arts. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds. All teachers are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development. The center emphasizes health and safety protocols including rigorous cleaning procedures and secure check-in systems. Parents praise the consistent communication through daily reports and the nurturing environment that promotes social-emotional development.
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Building Blocks Early Learning Center
Building Blocks Early Learning Center
Building Blocks Early Learning Center offers a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum includes Montessori-inspired activities, literacy development, and hands-on science exploration. The center features secure facilities with coded entry, age-separated play areas, and nutritious meal programs. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing training in child development. The center is noted for its small class sizes and individualized attention, with parents consistently praising the caring staff and clean, organized environment.
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Little Learners Childcare
Little Learners Childcare
Little Learners Childcare provides a nurturing educational environment with a focus on developmental milestones and school readiness. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with emphasis on social skills, language development, and early math concepts. The facility includes secure indoor learning spaces and fenced outdoor play areas. All teachers are trained in early childhood education and participate in continuous professional development. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and emphasizes parent partnerships through regular communication and family events. Parents appreciate the warm, family-like atmosphere and consistent care quality.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Glendale, RI
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Glendale, RI, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Glendale, RI, all childcare centers and family daycare homes must be licensed by the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF). Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program curriculum. For centers, you can request to see their current license on-site. To verify a provider's status independently, you can use the DCYF's online "Child Care Search" tool or contact the DCYF Office of Child Care directly. It's highly recommended to choose only licensed providers, as this offers a baseline of oversight and protection for your child.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Glendale, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Glendale and greater Providence County area, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum (e.g., Montessori), and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Rhode Island's Department of Human Services (DHS) administers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's best to apply for CCAP through the DHS portal and inquire directly with providers about any private assistance options.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Glendale, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Glendale and the surrounding communities can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It's common to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for highly sought-after programs. Given this, parents are advised to begin their search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or even earlier if planning is feasible. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process, including any fees to join, how often you should check in, and their estimated timeline for openings.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available for preschoolers in the Glendale area?
Yes, Glendale's proximity to rural and natural areas in Rhode Island supports some nature-focused programs. While there may not be a dedicated "forest school" directly in Glendale, several centers in nearby towns like Scituate, Foster, and Coventry incorporate strong outdoor components, with daily outdoor play in natural settings, gardens, and nature exploration. Additionally, the YMCA of Greater Providence and other regional organizations often run outdoor-focused preschool programs at nearby camps or nature preserves. When touring facilities, ask about their outdoor philosophy, the safety and features of their play spaces, and how much daily unstructured outdoor time is guaranteed, rain or shine.
What resources are available in Glendale to help me evaluate and compare different childcare options?
A key local resource is Rhode Island's "BrightStars" quality rating and improvement system. Many daycare programs in Glendale and across the state participate voluntarily and receive a rating from 1 to 5 stars based on quality standards beyond basic licensing. You can search for rated programs on the BrightStars website. Furthermore, the United Way of Rhode Island's 2-1-1 helpline and website can provide referrals and information. For hands-on evaluation, schedule tours and ask each provider for references from current parents. Local parenting groups on social media platforms like Facebook (e.g., "RI Parents Connect") are also invaluable for getting candid, community-based reviews and recommendations.