The Best Daycare Centers in Warwick, RI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Warwick. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Warwick
Bright Horizons at Warwick
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Warwick is a nationally accredited center offering a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on school readiness. The center features NAEYC-accredited programs with age-appropriate learning environments, highly qualified teachers with early childhood degrees, and a play-based curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The facility includes secure entry systems, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, experienced staff, and the developmental progress they observe in their children.
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Children's Workshop - Warwick
The Children's Workshop
The Children's Workshop in Warwick is a highly-regarded local chain with a strong reputation for quality childcare and education. Their comprehensive curriculum includes the Creative Curriculum system with STEAM integration, character education, and hands-on learning experiences. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios and employs certified early childhood educators. Facilities feature secure access controls, age-appropriate playgrounds, and well-equipped classrooms. The center is particularly noted for its nutritious meal program, extended hours for working families, and strong parent-teacher partnerships that support children's developmental milestones.
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Kiddie Academy of Warwick
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Warwick provides a structured educational program through their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The center focuses on whole-child development with dedicated learning centers for literacy, math, science, and creative arts. Staff includes degreed early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. The facility features security cameras, keypad entry systems, and age-segregated outdoor play spaces. Parents consistently highlight the center's organized learning environment, consistent communication through the mobile app, and the visible academic and social growth in their children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Warwick, RI
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Warwick, RI?
In Warwick, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $1,000 to $1,400 per month. These costs can vary based on the type of facility (center-based vs. home-based), specific programs offered, and the center's location within the city. It's important to note that Rhode Island is one of the more expensive states for childcare. Parents should inquire about what is included in the tuition, such as meals, diapers, and enrichment activities. Financial assistance may be available through the Rhode Island Department of Human Services' Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families.
How do I verify that a daycare in Warwick is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All licensed childcare providers in Warwick 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. During an in-person tour, look for the current license visibly posted, ask about staff-to-child ratios (RI requires 1:4 for infants, 1:6 for toddlers), and observe the environment for safety, cleanliness, and engagement. Specifically ask about their emergency plans, staff qualifications (including ongoing training), and their policies on communication with parents. Warwick centers should also be prepared for local weather considerations, like safe drop-off/pick-up during winter.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Warwick, and when should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many daycare centers in Warwick, especially for infant rooms. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin researching and contacting centers during their second trimester, or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. Some highly sought-after centers may have waitlists exceeding a year. To manage this, create a list of 5-7 preferred options, contact them to understand their specific enrollment process and deposit requirements, and get on multiple lists if possible. Also, consider licensed family childcare homes, which may have more immediate availability and can be found through the DCYF network.
What are the options for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Warwick?
While full-time care is most common, Warwick does offer part-time and flexible options. Some daycare centers offer 2, 3, or 4-day-a-week schedules, though these spots are limited and may cost more per day than a full-time weekly rate. Many licensed family childcare providers offer greater schedule flexibility. Another popular option for flexible or occasional care is using registered "Family, Friend, and Neighbor" providers, which can be subsidized through CCAP. Additionally, preschool programs for children ages 3-5 often offer half-day sessions. For true drop-in or hourly care, options are very limited in Warwick, so parents should plan ahead and inquire directly with providers about their policy on flexible scheduling.
What resources are available in Warwick to help me find and compare local childcare providers?
The primary resource is the Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS) and DCYF. You can use their coordinated "Brighter Futures" child care search website to filter by location (Warwick), age of child, type of care, and hours of operation. For personalized assistance, contact the **Child Care Aware® of Rhode Island** helpline, which offers free referrals and guidance. Locally, the **Warwick Public Library** often has community bulletin boards with information, and the **City of Warwick's website** may list licensed providers. Networking through local parent groups on social media (like "Warwick, RI Moms") can also provide valuable firsthand recommendations and insights into current availability and center cultures.
Nearby Cities
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