The Best Daycare Centers in Cheriton, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cheriton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cheriton
Eastern Shore Children's Academy
Independent
Eastern Shore Children's Academy offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a research-based curriculum that focuses on developmental milestones. The center features low student-teacher ratios, certified early childhood educators, and a secure facility with monitored access. Their program includes daily academic instruction, creative arts, physical education, and outdoor play in their fenced playground. They emphasize individualized learning plans and maintain strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences. The center is known for its nurturing environment and strong preparation for kindergarten readiness.
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Kiddie Academy of Onley
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Onley provides educational childcare with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The center features state-certified teachers, secure entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their program includes STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, indoor gross motor space, and outdoor playgrounds. They offer nutritious meals and snacks included in tuition and maintain detailed developmental assessments for each child. Parents appreciate the consistent communication and professional staff.
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Eastern Shore YMCA Child Development Center
YMCA of the Chesapeake
The Eastern Shore YMCA Child Development Center offers a values-based educational program that focuses on the whole child's development. Their curriculum emphasizes academic readiness, physical health, and social responsibility. The center features qualified early childhood educators, secure facilities, and extensive safety training. Programs include swimming lessons for older children, sports activities, and character development lessons. They provide financial assistance options and maintain strong community partnerships. The YMCA's longstanding reputation and comprehensive approach to child development make them a trusted choice for Eastern Shore families, including those in Cheriton.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cheriton, VA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Cheriton, VA?
In Cheriton and the surrounding Eastern Shore area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $750 to $1,000 per month for an infant or toddler. In-home family daycares may offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from $600 to $850 per month. It's important to note that Cheriton is a smaller community, so options are more limited than in larger Virginia cities, which can sometimes keep prices competitive. Always ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. We recommend contacting providers directly for the most current rates and inquiring about any potential sibling discounts.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Cheriton is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All licensed childcare providers in Cheriton must be regulated by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), which oversees the licensing division. You can verify a provider's license and review their inspection history online through the VDOE's "Child Care Search" portal. This public tool allows you to see the facility's license status, capacity, ages served, and any documented violations or complaints. For very small, legally exempt family daycares (caring for up to 5 children), they are not required to be licensed but must still register with the local social services department. Parents in Cheriton should always ask to see a current license and feel empowered to check the online records to ensure the provider meets Virginia's health, safety, and educational standards.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Cheriton?
Yes, eligible families in Cheriton can apply for financial assistance through the Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by the Northampton County Department of Social Services. This program helps low-income families, those participating in workforce training, or parents pursuing education to pay for childcare at participating licensed or registered providers. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. Given the rural nature of the Eastern Shore, accessing these services may require a trip to the county office in Eastville, but application information and forms are available online. We recommend contacting the Northampton County DSS directly to determine your eligibility and get help navigating the application process.
What is the average waitlist time for daycare centers in Cheriton, and when should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of dedicated daycare centers in a small town like Cheriton, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant spots. It is not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long for infants at the most sought-after providers. We strongly advise parents to begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during the first trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool-age openings, waitlists may be shorter, around 3-6 months. When contacting providers, be sure to ask about their specific waitlist policy, any fees to hold a spot, and how often they update families on their position. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Nassawadox or Exmore for more options.
What are some key questions to ask a potential in-home daycare provider in Cheriton during a tour?
When touring a family childcare home in Cheriton, it's crucial to ask specific questions to ensure a safe and nurturing environment. Key questions include: "Are you licensed or registered with the state, and may I see your documentation?" "What is your emergency plan for events like power outages or severe weather common on the Eastern Shore?" "Can you provide a sample daily schedule and describe your educational philosophy?" "What is your policy on sick children, and what are your vaccination requirements for the children in your care?" "How do you handle discipline and social-emotional learning?" "May I have contact information for two current or past parent references?" Given the home-based setting, also observe the cleanliness, safety of the play areas, and how the provider interacts with the children during your visit.