The Best Daycare Centers in Underhill, VT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Underhill. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Underhill
Maple Street School
Independent
Maple Street School is a highly-regarded early childhood education center serving the Underhill area with a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum. The school emphasizes social-emotional learning, creative expression, and kindergarten readiness through structured yet flexible programming. Certified early childhood educators maintain low student-teacher ratios in bright, well-equipped classrooms. The facility features dedicated art and music spaces, outdoor play areas, and a focus on nature-based learning that aligns with Vermont's educational values. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, experienced staff, and comprehensive approach to child development.
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The Children's Room
Independent
The Children's Room provides comprehensive childcare services for children from infancy through preschool age, with a strong emphasis on individualized care and developmental milestones. The center follows an emergent curriculum that builds on children's interests while incorporating literacy, math, science, and social studies concepts. Highly qualified early childhood professionals create warm, engaging environments with age-appropriate learning centers and extensive materials. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and rigorous health and cleanliness standards. The program is noted for its excellent communication with families and flexible scheduling options.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Essex Junction brings nationally recognized early childhood education standards to the Underhill service area with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The curriculum balances academic preparation with social development and creative expression through dedicated learning domains. State-of-the-art facilities include secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and technology-enhanced learning spaces. All teachers hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes health and safety with rigorous protocols, nutritional meal programs, and regular communication with parents about their child's progress and daily activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Underhill, VT
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Underhill, VT, and how do I find them?
In Underhill, Vermont, licensed childcare primarily comes in two forms: licensed family childcare homes and center-based programs. Given Underhill's rural nature, licensed family childcare homes (operating out of a provider's residence for up to 6-10 children) are a very common and often sought-after option, offering a home-like setting. There are also a few center-based programs, though you may need to look in nearby towns like Jericho or Essex Junction for more center options. The best resource for finding and verifying licensed providers is through Vermont's official Child Care Resource (CCR) website or by contacting Building Bright Futures - Champlain Valley, which serves our region. They maintain an up-to-date searchable database of all licensed and registered programs, including their vacancies, which is crucial in an area with limited slots.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Underhill, and when should I start looking?
Waitlists for quality childcare in Underhill and the surrounding Lamoille County/Chittenden County area can be significant, often ranging from 6 months to over a year, especially for infants and toddlers. Due to the limited number of providers in a small town, spots fill up quickly. It is highly recommended that expecting parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. For family childcare homes, which may have smaller capacities, contacting providers as early as possible is key. Be proactive, get on multiple lists, and check in periodically to update your information and expressed interest.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Underhill, and is there any financial assistance available?
The cost of childcare in Underhill is generally aligned with Vermont state averages, which are among the highest in the nation. For full-time care, you can expect to pay approximately $250-$350 per week for a preschooler and $300-$450+ per week for an infant in a family childcare home. Center-based care in nearby towns may be at the higher end of that range or above. Financial assistance is available through the Vermont Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP), which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income, household size, and need. You apply through the Department for Children and Families (DCF). Additionally, some providers may offer sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
What are Vermont's specific licensing requirements for childcare providers, and how can I verify a provider's status?
Vermont has rigorous licensing standards overseen by the Child Development Division (CDD). All licensed providers must pass comprehensive background checks, meet health and safety standards for their facilities, complete required training in topics like pediatric first aid/CPR, safe sleep practices (for infants), and child development, and adhere to staff-to-child ratios. Family childcare homes are licensed for specific capacities. You can and should verify a provider's current license status, any history of regulatory violations, and their star rating in Vermont's STep Ahead Recognition System (STARS) through the public search tool on the Child Care Resource website. This system rates programs on quality indicators beyond basic licensing.
Are there any unique seasonal or community-based childcare options in Underhill that parents should know about?
Yes, given Underhill's community-oriented and rural character, there are a few unique options to explore. During the summer, the Underhill ID School District and local recreation departments often offer summer day camps for school-age children, which can help bridge childcare gaps. For younger children, some local families utilize informal nanny shares or babysitting cooperatives, often organized through community boards like Front Porch Forum or local Facebook groups. Additionally, the Underhill Town Hall or the Jericho/Underhill Library may host parent-child playgroups or activities that provide networking opportunities to connect with other parents and potential in-home caregivers. Always ensure any caregiver you hire independently meets your safety standards, as these informal arrangements are not state-licensed.