The Best Daycare Centers in Sharon, VT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sharon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sharon
The Sharon Academy Preschool
The Sharon Academy
The Sharon Academy Preschool operates as part of the respected Sharon Academy school system, offering a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional learning and kindergarten readiness. With small class sizes and low student-teacher ratios, the program focuses on hands-on learning through creative arts, literacy activities, and outdoor exploration. Certified early childhood educators provide individualized attention, and the program maintains strong parent-teacher communication. The facility features dedicated preschool classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and secure outdoor play spaces designed specifically for young children's developmental needs.
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The Children's Center at Dartmouth-Hitchcock
Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
Located just 15 minutes from Sharon in Lebanon, NH, this NAEYC-accredited center serves many Vermont families with its comprehensive early childhood program. The center employs a research-based curriculum that blends Reggio Emilia and Montessori approaches, emphasizing inquiry-based learning and child-directed exploration. All lead teachers hold bachelor's degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains exceptional staff-to-child ratios. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, nutritious meal programs, and extensive indoor and outdoor learning environments. Their emphasis on developmental milestones tracking and individualized learning plans makes them a top choice for families seeking high-quality care.
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The Family Center of Washington County
Family Center of Washington County
Serving families throughout central Vermont including Sharon, this nationally accredited center offers comprehensive early childhood programs with a strong focus on family engagement and community support. The curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities through play-based learning. The center features highly qualified staff with advanced degrees in early childhood education, maintained low child-to-teacher ratios, and offers inclusive programming for children of all abilities. Their facility includes secure, developmentally appropriate classrooms, outdoor nature exploration areas, and family resource centers. The center is particularly noted for its strong parent education programs and wraparound family support services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sharon, VT
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Sharon, VT, and how do I find them?
In Sharon, Vermont, licensed childcare options primarily include licensed family child care homes (operated in a provider's residence for up to 6-10 children) and center-based programs. Due to Sharon's rural nature, family child care homes are a common and vital option. To find licensed providers, your primary resource is the State of Vermont's online **Child Care Consumer Resource (CCCR)** database. You can search by town, zip code (05065), and age of your child. Additionally, contacting the local resource and referral agency, **Let's Grow Kids**, can provide personalized assistance and information on availability in the Sharon area and neighboring towns like Norwich or White River Junction.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant or toddler care in Sharon, and are there financial assistance programs?
Childcare costs in Sharon and the surrounding Upper Valley region of Vermont are significant, often reflecting statewide averages. For full-time infant care, you can expect to pay approximately **$1,100 to $1,400 per month** in a family child care setting, with center-based care potentially being higher. Vermont offers crucial financial assistance through the **Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP)**, which is income-based and can substantially reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Eligibility has expanded recently. You must apply through the **Department for Children and Families (DCF)**. Also, inquire directly with providers about any potential sliding scale fees.
How long are waitlists for daycare in Sharon, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for quality, licensed childcare in Sharon and the broader Upper Valley can be long, often **6 months to over a year**, especially for infants and toddlers. This is due to high demand and limited provider capacity in a small town. To secure a spot, start your search as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. Contact multiple providers in Sharon and be willing to consider options in nearby towns such as Norwich, Hartford, or White River Junction. Get on multiple waitlists, and follow up politely every few months. Be prepared with your preferred start date and schedule when you make inquiries.
What are Vermont's key licensing requirements for childcare providers that I should look for as a parent in Sharon?
Vermont has robust licensing standards to ensure child safety and development. As a parent in Sharon, you should verify a provider is licensed by the state. Key requirements include: background checks for all staff, mandatory training in CPR/first aid and child development, adherence to strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants), regular health and safety inspections of the facility, and developmentally appropriate programming. Licensed providers are also required to participate in Vermont's **STARS** quality rating system. You can ask to see a provider's license and their STARS rating, which is a reliable indicator of program quality beyond minimum standards.
Are there any unique seasonal or agricultural childcare considerations for families in Sharon, VT?
Yes, Sharon's rural and agricultural character presents unique considerations. Some family child care providers or small preschools may adjust hours or close for traditional school holidays and summer breaks, which is important for year-round working parents. Conversely, some providers may offer more flexible or extended hours during key local agricultural seasons if they cater to farm families. There are also nature-based and outdoor-focused programs in the region that leverage the rural setting. It's important to ask providers about their annual calendar, closure policies, and if they accommodate non-traditional work schedules common in farming or trades. Additionally, transportation can be a factor, as some programs may not offer bus service.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Sharon: