The Best Daycare Centers in Smithfield, RI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Smithfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Smithfield
Little Learners Child Care Center
Independent
Little Learners Child Care Center is a highly-regarded local facility known for its play-based learning approach and nurturing environment. The center features a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development, early literacy, and STEM exploration. Staff members hold early childhood education degrees and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and modern safety systems including coded entry. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, individualized attention to children's needs, and the warm, family-like atmosphere. The center offers nutritious meals and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Smithfield
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Smithfield is part of the nationally recognized early education provider network, offering a research-based World at Their Fingertips curriculum. The center focuses on whole-child development through hands-on learning experiences in language, math, science, and creative arts. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, dedicated age-specific learning environments, and outdoor nature exploration areas. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in continuous training. The center is particularly noted for its strong parent partnership program, regular developmental assessments, and emphasis on school readiness skills. Emergency preparedness protocols and health safety measures meet the highest standards.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of North Providence
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Located just minutes from Smithfield in neighboring North Providence, Kiddie Academy serves families throughout the region with its Life Essentials® curriculum that balances education and character development. The academy emphasizes project-based learning, technology integration, and community awareness. The facility includes secure classrooms with observation windows, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for literacy, math, and dramatic play. All staff are CPR and First Aid certified, with lead teachers holding early childhood credentials. The center is recognized for its strong communication through daily activity reports, parent portal access, and regular family events. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and rigorous cleaning protocols.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Smithfield, RI
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Smithfield, RI?
In Smithfield, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of center. For infants (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. These rates are generally in line with the Rhode Island state average. Home-based family childcare in Smithfield may be slightly less expensive, often ranging from $900 to $1,300 monthly. It's important to note that these are base rates; additional fees for registration, supplies, or late pick-up are common. We recommend contacting the Rhode Island Department of Human Services to check eligibility for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which can help offset costs for qualifying families.
How do I verify that a daycare in Smithfield is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All licensed childcare providers in Smithfield are regulated by the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). You can verify a program's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the DCYF's online "Child Care Search" tool. When touring a facility in Smithfield, ask to see their current license and their DCYF "BrightStars" quality rating (Rhode Island's quality rating system). Locally, also look for: clear evidence of emergency procedures, cleanliness and safety of both indoor and outdoor play areas (considering New England weather), staff-to-child ratios being maintained, and a posted daily schedule. Don't hesitate to ask about staff qualifications, turnover rates, and their policies for sick children—a crucial topic in any community setting.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Smithfield, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for daycare centers in Smithfield, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. Due to high demand and limited infant slots, it is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally 6 to 12 months before your needed start date. For toddler and preschool-aged children, 3 to 6 months of lead time is more typical but still recommended. Many popular centers in Smithfield, particularly those with high BrightStars ratings or convenient locations near major employers like Bryant University or Fidelity, maintain year-long waitlists. We suggest contacting multiple providers, getting on several lists (even if there's a small fee), and following up periodically to express continued interest.
What are the options for backup or emergency childcare in Smithfield if my regular provider is closed?
Finding backup care in Smithfield requires planning. First, inquire if your primary daycare has a partnership with a local backup care network, though this is more common with corporate-sponsored programs. For immediate, short-term needs, consider reaching out to licensed family childcare homes, as they may have more flexible daily availability. The Town of Smithfield's Parks & Recreation Department occasionally offers school-break camps for older children, but these are not for infants/toddlers. For true emergencies, your best local resource is often your personal network or a trusted babysitter. Some regional services, like Care.com, allow you to search for sitters in the 02917 zip code, but always vet caregivers thoroughly. Planning ahead by identifying one or two trusted backup sitters is the most reliable strategy for Smithfield parents.
What resources are available in Smithfield to help me find and compare different childcare programs?
The primary resource for Smithfield parents is the Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS) and DCYF. Start with the DCYF **"Child Care Search" website**, where you can filter by location (Smithfield), age of child, type of care (center or family), and BrightStars quality rating (1-5 stars). The **Smithfield Public Library** may also have local community bulletins with information. Additionally, connecting with other parents through local Facebook groups (e.g., "Smithfield, RI Community Forum") or neighborhood apps like Nextdoor can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations. For a more guided search, you can contact the **Rhode Island Association for the Education of Young Children (RIAEYC)** for referrals. Finally, always schedule in-person visits to your top choices to get a true feel for the environment.
Childcare Insights for Smithfield
Finding quality childcare is one of the most significant decisions a family makes, and if you’re a parent in Smithfield, Rhode Island, typing “find childcare near me” into a search bar, you’re likely seeking both convenience and exceptional care. The good news is that Smithfield and its surrounding communities offer a variety of wonderful options, from licensed home daycares to established childcare centers, but knowing where to start can make all the difference. Your search should begin with understanding the local landscape. Smithfield itself is home to several highly-regarded centers, often affiliated with local schools or community organizations, providing structured early learning environments. Many families also find excellent care in the neighboring towns of North Providence, Johnston, and Greenville, all just a short commute away, which broadens your possibilities significantly.
A practical first step is to utilize the State of Rhode Island’s Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Care Search tool. This official resource allows you to filter by location, including Smithfield’s 02917 zip code, and view only state-licensed providers. Licensing ensures that programs meet health, safety, and staff qualification standards, giving you a foundational layer of confidence. Once you have a list, consider what type of setting aligns with your child’s temperament and your family’s philosophy. Do you envision a larger center with multiple classrooms and a structured curriculum, or a smaller, family-like atmosphere in a licensed home daycare? Both types thrive in our community.
When evaluating options in Smithfield, local logistics become key. Consider your daily route. Is the provider conveniently located near Route 7, Route 44, or I-295, simplifying your commute to work in Providence or Lincoln? Ask about their operating hours to ensure they align with the schedule of local employers like Bryant University or Fidelity Investments. Don’t hesitate to ask very specific questions about their daily routine, their policy on outdoor play—especially important with our beautiful Rhode Island seasons at Deerfield Park or Georgiaville Pond—and how they handle communication with parents. Many local providers use digital apps for daily reports, which can be a reassuring touchpoint during a busy workday.
Perhaps the most valuable resource, however, is other Smithfield parents. Take time to connect with your network at the Smithfield YMCA, the local library children’s programs, or neighborhood groups. Personal recommendations carry immense weight, offering insights you can’t find online about a provider’s true demeanor, consistency, and community reputation. Finally, trust your instincts during visits. A warm, engaging environment where children are happily involved is the ultimate sign of quality care. Finding the right childcare in Smithfield is about matching your child’s needs with a supportive, safe, and stimulating local environment. With a blend of state resources, local knowledge, and thoughtful consideration, you can find a place where your child will learn, grow, and thrive right here in our community.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Smithfield: