The Best Daycare Centers in Cayce, SC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cayce. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cayce
The Goddard School of Cayce
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Cayce offers a premier early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach combined with academic readiness. Their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development. Features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secure keypad entry systems, live streaming cameras for parent viewing, and nutritious meal programs. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated learning centers for different developmental stages.
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Primrose School of Downtown Columbia
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Downtown Columbia serves the greater Cayce area with their Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance. Their research-based curriculum includes character development, literacy, math, science, and creative arts. Features highly qualified teachers with ongoing professional development, secure facility with controlled access, USDA-approved balanced meals, and spacious outdoor learning environments. The school emphasizes partnership with families through regular communication and parent resources, with a strong focus on developing the whole child.
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The Learning Vine Preschool & Childcare
Independent
The Learning Vine is a locally-owned childcare center in Cayce offering a comprehensive early childhood program with a focus on hands-on learning and Christian values. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness through structured play and guided activities. Features experienced teaching staff with low child-to-teacher ratios, secure facility with fenced playgrounds, homemade nutritious meals, and regular developmental assessments. The center provides a warm, family-like atmosphere while maintaining high educational standards and individualized attention for each child.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cayce, SC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Cayce, SC?
In Cayce, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For center-based care, you can expect to pay between $150 and $220 per week for a toddler, while infant care is typically higher, ranging from $180 to $260 per week. Home-based family childcare providers often charge slightly less, averaging $120 to $190 per week. These rates are generally in line with the broader Columbia metro area but can be influenced by specific program offerings, such as curriculum, meal inclusion, and extended hours. It's important to ask about any additional fees for registration, supplies, or late pickups when comparing costs.
How do I verify that a daycare in Cayce is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All licensed childcare facilities in Cayce must be regulated by the South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS). You can verify a provider's license, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the SCDSS website. During an in-person tour, look for clear evidence of the license posted, ask about staff-to-child ratios (South Carolina mandates 1:5 for infants and 1:10 for 4-year-olds), observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment, and inquire about staff qualifications and ongoing training. Also, ask about their emergency procedures and how they communicate with parents daily.
Are there any subsidized childcare or financial assistance programs available for families in Cayce?
Yes, eligible families in Cayce can apply for the South Carolina Voucher Program, administered by the SCDSS. This program provides financial assistance to low-income families, those in job training, or parents pursuing education. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. The United Way of the Midlands (serving the Columbia area, including Cayce) can also be a resource for connecting families with assistance programs. It's recommended to apply early, as funding can be limited and waitlists may exist.
What is the current availability and waitlist situation for daycare centers in Cayce, especially for infants?
Due to high demand and limited infant care slots (which require lower staff-to-child ratios), many daycare centers in Cayce and the surrounding West Columbia/Lexington County area often have significant waitlists, particularly for infants. It's common for parents to join waitlists 6 to 12 months before their needed start date. We recommend contacting multiple providers—both centers and licensed home-based programs—as soon as possible to inquire about availability and get on their lists. Some facilities near the Riverwalk or in downtown Cayce may have different capacities than those in more residential neighborhoods.
What are some of the unique local resources or programs that Cayce daycares might utilize?
Many childcare providers in Cayce take advantage of the city's excellent parks and community resources. Look for programs that incorporate outdoor time at the Cayce Riverwalk, Granby Gardens Park, or the Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center. Some centers may also partner with the Cayce Historical Museum or the Cayce Public Safety Department for educational visits. Additionally, being part of the Lexington School District Two area, some preschool programs align their curricula with local kindergarten readiness expectations. Providers might also participate in food programs like the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program, which ensures nutritious meals.