The Best Daycare Centers in Bedford, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bedford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bedford
KinderCare Learning Center at Lynchburg
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare at Lynchburg provides a nationally accredited curriculum focused on whole-child development, blending play-based learning with structured activities to foster social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, with staff holding early childhood education credentials and CPR/first aid certifications. Safety is prioritized through secure entry systems, regular drills, and hygienic facilities. The program includes literacy-rich environments, STEM activities, and outdoor play spaces. Parent communication is enhanced via daily reports and family engagement events, contributing to high satisfaction in the Bedford-Lynchburg area.
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The Goddard School of Lynchburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lynchburg offers a premier early childhood education with its F.L.E.X.® Learning Program (Focused Learning Experience), emphasizing play-based learning, literacy, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics). Certified teachers create individualized learning plans, and the facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritionally balanced meals. Safety protocols include background-checked staff, surveillance, and emergency preparedness. The school promotes parent involvement through regular updates and events, earning strong reviews for its developmental tracking and inclusive environment serving Bedford families.
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Primrose School of Lynchburg
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Lynchburg utilizes the Balanced Learning® approach, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities to develop critical thinking, creativity, and character. The curriculum includes literacy, math, and social skills, supported by qualified educators with ongoing training. The center features safe, clean facilities with monitored access, outdoor play areas, and healthy meal options. Parent partnerships are strengthened through real-time communication apps and family resources. Known for its high standards and nurturing atmosphere, it serves the Bedford region with a focus on school readiness and holistic development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bedford, VA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Bedford, VA?
In Bedford, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (under 2 years), you can expect to pay between **$150 to $225 per week** at licensed daycare centers. For toddlers (ages 2-4), weekly rates typically range from **$130 to $190**. Home-based family daycares often offer slightly lower rates, generally between **$110 to $170 per week** for full-time care. These costs are generally lower than the state average for Virginia, reflecting Bedford's more rural cost of living. It's important to ask what is included in the fee (meals, snacks, curriculum, etc.) and to inquire about any registration or supply fees, which are common.
How do I verify that a daycare in Bedford is properly licensed and what should I look for in inspection reports?
All childcare facilities in Bedford must be licensed by the **Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), Division of Licensing Programs**. You can verify a provider's license status and view their official inspection reports by using the **Virginia Child Care Search** tool online. When reviewing reports for a Bedford provider, pay close attention to any cited violations, particularly in critical areas like staff-to-child ratios, background checks, safe sleep practices for infants, and physical environment safety. Also, note if violations were corrected. You can contact the local VDOE licensing office for the Central Region if you have specific questions. It's a best practice to visit in person and ask the director about any past violations you see.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Bedford, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Waitlists for daycare, especially for infants, are common in Bedford due to limited capacity and strict staff-to-child ratios. Popular centers and highly-rated home daycares often have waitlists ranging from **3 to 9 months**. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move begin their search **6 to 12 months** before they need care. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and process (e.g., if a deposit is required to hold a spot). Exploring multiple options, including both centers and licensed family daycares in Bedford and the surrounding Bedford County area, can increase your chances of finding an opening sooner.
What local resources or programs in Bedford can help me find and afford childcare?
Bedford parents have several key local resources. The **Central Virginia Child Care Network (CVCCN)**, which serves the region, can provide referrals to licensed providers in Bedford. For financial assistance, the **Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) Child Care Subsidy Program** is available for eligible families based on income and need; you apply through the Bedford County Department of Social Services. Additionally, some Bedford employers, such as those in healthcare or manufacturing, may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or partnerships with local providers. The **Bedford Public Library** and community centers may also have bulletin boards with information on local home daycares.
What are the options for part-time, drop-in, or after-school care in Bedford?
While full-time care is most common, Bedford does offer some flexible options. Several daycare centers offer **part-time schedules** (e.g., 2-3 days a week), though these spots are limited and may cost more per day than a weekly rate. **Drop-in care** is very rare in dedicated centers but may occasionally be offered by some licensed family daycares, subject to daily availability. For school-age children, **after-school care** is provided by some elementary schools through programs like the Bedford YMCA's after-school program, which typically includes transportation from school to the program site. For younger children, some centers offer preschool programs with half-day options. Always call providers directly to inquire about their current flexible care offerings and any associated fees.