The Best Daycare Centers in Somerville, TX
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Somerville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Somerville
The Goddard School of College Station
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in College Station serves the broader Brazos Valley region including Somerville with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. Features state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure keypad entry systems, live streaming for parents, and nutritionally balanced meals. Maintains low student-teacher ratios and offers extensive enrichment programs including yoga, foreign language exposure, and music.
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Brenham Early Childhood Learning Center
Independent
Serving Washington County and surrounding areas including Somerville, this center provides a structured yet nurturing environment with a balanced curriculum focusing on literacy, mathematics, and social skills. Implements Creative Curriculum with learning centers that encourage exploration and independence. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. Features secure facilities with surveillance cameras, fenced playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment, and USDA-approved meal program. Strong emphasis on parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Little Learners Academy
Independent
Located in nearby Brenham and serving the Somerville area, Little Learners Academy offers a developmental approach to early education with hands-on learning activities. Curriculum includes phonics-based reading readiness, early math concepts, and science exploration. Features certified early childhood teachers with low student-teacher ratios, secure facility with coded entry, and outdoor learning environments. Provides nutritious meals and snacks, regular developmental assessments, and strong focus on school readiness skills. Offers flexible scheduling and extended care hours to accommodate working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Somerville, TX
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Somerville, TX, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Somerville, Texas, all licensed childcare operations are regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) Child Care Licensing division. Providers must meet strict standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify the license of a specific home daycare or childcare center, you can use the Texas HHS online "Search for Child Care" tool. This database shows the facility's license type, any recent inspections, and any serious violations or deficiencies. Given Somerville's smaller size, many providers are licensed home operations, so it's crucial to confirm they are actively licensed and in good standing with the state.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Somerville, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Somerville area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than in major Texas metros but can vary. For an infant, you might expect to pay between $450 to $650 per month at a licensed home daycare, while a larger childcare center could range from $550 to $750 monthly. For toddlers, costs are typically $50-$100 less. Financial assistance is primarily available through the statewide Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Child Care Services program, which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income and need. Eligibility and application are managed through the TWC board serving Burleson County. Additionally, some local churches or community organizations may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Somerville, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of dedicated childcare centers in Somerville, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. It's not unusual for popular providers to have a 3 to 6-month waitlist. For in-home daycares, spots may open more frequently but fill quickly. We strongly recommend starting your search at least 6-9 months before you need care, particularly if you require infant care or have a specific start date like returning to work. Many local parents get on multiple waitlists as a precaution. Be proactive and check in periodically, as spots can sometimes open unexpectedly.
Are there any unique childcare options in Somerville that cater to agricultural or shift-work families common in the area?
Yes, understanding the local economy is important. Somerville and surrounding Burleson County have many families involved in agriculture, healthcare, and shift work at nearby facilities. Some licensed home daycares may offer more flexible or non-traditional hours, including early mornings, evenings, or occasional weekend care. It's essential to inquire directly about hours and flexibility. Additionally, some providers may participate in the Texas Rising Star program, a quality rating system, which can indicate a higher standard of care. For true overnight or 24-hour care, options are extremely limited locally, and you may need to look toward larger towns like Brenham or College Station.
What should I look for during an in-person visit to a daycare in Somerville, and are there any local resources for comparing options?
When visiting a daycare in Somerville, look beyond the basics. Observe how staff interact with children, check for clean and safe indoor/outdoor play areas, and ask about their daily schedule and educational philosophy. In a rural area like ours, ask about their plan for emergencies or severe weather. Check if meals are provided and if they can accommodate any dietary needs. For local comparisons, use the Texas HHS search tool mentioned earlier and look at inspection reports. Also, leverage local networks: ask for recommendations in community Facebook groups (e.g., "Somerville, TX Community"), at your workplace, or through your pediatrician's office in Brenham or Caldwell. Personal referrals are invaluable in a close-knit community.