The Best Daycare Centers in Windsor, VT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Windsor. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Windsor
The Children's Place at CCV
Community College of Vermont
The Children's Place at CCV is a nationally accredited early childhood education center located just 15 minutes from Windsor. Operated by the Community College of Vermont, this facility offers a research-based curriculum focused on developmental milestones and school readiness. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees, low teacher-to-child ratios, and a comprehensive learning environment with both indoor and outdoor educational spaces. Their program emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities while maintaining rigorous safety protocols and nutritious meal programs.
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Creative Kids Preschool & Childcare
Creative Kids Early Learning Centers
Located just across the border in Claremont (approximately 10 minutes from Windsor), Creative Kids Preschool & Childcare serves many Vermont families with its comprehensive early childhood programs. This center features a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on developing the whole child through creative arts, music, movement, and hands-on learning activities. The facility maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios, employs certified early childhood educators, and offers secure, modern facilities with age-appropriate learning environments. Parents consistently praise their communication, safety measures, and the nurturing atmosphere.
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The Children's Center of the Upper Valley
Upper Valley Services
The Children's Center of the Upper Valley, located approximately 20 minutes from Windsor in West Lebanon, is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility serving both Vermont and New Hampshire families. This NAEYC-accredited center offers an inclusive environment with specialized programs for children with diverse needs. Their curriculum blends Montessori-inspired activities with structured learning, focusing on individual development and social skills. The center features state-certified teachers, comprehensive safety systems, nutritious meal programs, and extensive indoor/outdoor play spaces. Their strong parent partnership approach and developmental tracking system make them a top choice for families seeking quality childcare with educational excellence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Windsor, VT
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Windsor, VT, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Windsor, VT, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the child's age and the type of program. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,600 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs typically range from $900 to $1,300 per month. These rates are generally in line with Vermont's statewide averages, which are among the highest in the nation relative to income. Fortunately, Vermont offers robust financial assistance through the Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP), administered by the Department for Children and Families (DCF). Eligibility is based on family size, income, and need. Additionally, local providers in Windsor may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly. You can apply for CCFAP through the Vermont Benefits portal or contact the Windsor County DCF office for guidance.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers and home-based providers in Windsor, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists in Windsor, VT, can be lengthy, especially for infant care, which is in critically short supply statewide. It's not uncommon for reputable centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. Licensed family childcare homes may have shorter lists but fewer openings. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers, get on multiple lists (even if there's a small fee), and follow up politely every 2-3 months to confirm your spot. Consider expanding your search to neighboring towns like Hartland, Weathersfield, or Ascutney for more options. Registering with "Let's Grow Kids," a Vermont advocacy and resource organization, can also help you navigate availability and connect with providers.
What are Vermont's specific licensing requirements for childcare providers, and how can I verify a provider's license and compliance history in Windsor?
Vermont has strict licensing standards overseen by the Child Development Division (CDD). All licensed providers must meet requirements for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and ongoing training), health and safety protocols, nutrition, and program curriculum. For parents in Windsor, the easiest way to verify a provider's status is to use the public "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the Vermont Department for Children and Families website. This database shows the provider's license type (Center or Family Child Care Home), capacity, ages served, and any serious licensing violations or enforcement actions. You can also contact the Northern CDD Field Office, which serves Windsor County, to ask specific questions about a provider's compliance history. Always visit a potential daycare and ask to see their current license.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in the Windsor area?
Yes, Windsor's proximity to the Connecticut River and rural landscapes supports a growing interest in nature-based programming. While dedicated "forest schools" are more common in larger Vermont towns, several local providers in and around Windsor incorporate significant outdoor time into their daily routines. Some family childcare homes operate with a strong outdoor play philosophy. Additionally, you may find preschool programs that partner with local farms or utilize town parks and trails. To find these options, search for providers using keywords like "nature-based" or "outdoor-focused" on the state's provider search website and ask specific questions during tours about daily outdoor play, garden activities, and weather policies. The local parenting group "Upper Valley Parents" (online) is also a good resource for personal recommendations on such programs.
What backup or emergency childcare options exist for parents in Windsor if our regular provider is closed or our child is mildly ill?
Backup childcare is a significant challenge in Windsor due to limited provider capacity. Traditional drop-in centers are rare. Your best options are to first inquire if your primary provider offers any backup care for existing families on closed days. Some parents in the area form informal "nanny shares" or babysitting co-ops with other families for emergency coverage. For mildly ill children who cannot attend their regular program, most local providers have exclusion policies, so you will need in-home care. Services like Care.com can help you find local babysitters, but vet them thoroughly. For planned closures (like professional development days), some regional organizations in the Upper Valley, like the AVA Gallery or local YMCAs, may offer day camps for school-age children, though these are less common for toddlers and infants. Planning ahead with a trusted list of 2-3 backup sitters is highly recommended for Windsor families.