The Best Daycare Centers in Chesapeake, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Chesapeake. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Chesapeake
KinderCare Learning Center at Great Bridge
KinderCare Education
This highly-rated KinderCare location offers a comprehensive educational approach with research-based curriculum across all age groups. Features include phonics-based reading programs, STEM activities, and Spanish language exposure. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators, many holding degrees in education. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different developmental stages. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, safety protocols, and the developmental progress they observe in their children.
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Primrose School of Cahoon Commons
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Cahoon Commons follows the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. The curriculum includes literacy, math, science, social studies, and arts. All lead teachers hold early childhood education credentials, and the center maintains rigorous safety standards including secured entry, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks. The facility features modern classrooms, dedicated music and art spaces, and age-appropriate outdoor learning environments. Parents consistently highlight the school's nurturing environment and strong academic preparation.
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The Goddard School of Chesapeake
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Chesapeake offers F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that promotes play-based learning while developing social, emotional, and academic skills. The curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and creative arts, with additional enrichment programs in yoga, music, and foreign languages. All teachers are professionally trained in early childhood development and the school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features bright, well-equipped classrooms, multiple playgrounds, and advanced security systems. Parents frequently commend the school's communication, dedicated staff, and the visible developmental progress in their children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Chesapeake, VA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Chesapeake, VA?
In Chesapeake, the cost of full-time daycare varies significantly based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $1,000 to $1,400 per month for an infant, and slightly less ($900 to $1,200) for a toddler. In-home family daycare providers are often more affordable, typically ranging from $700 to $1,000 monthly. Costs are influenced by factors like the center's amenities, curriculum, and location within the city (e.g., areas like Greenbrier or Great Bridge may have higher rates). It's important to note that these prices are generally lower than in nearby Northern Virginia but on par with or slightly above the Virginia state average. Many facilities also charge registration and supply fees.
How do I verify a daycare provider's license and inspection history in Chesapeake?
All childcare providers in Virginia must be licensed by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), which oversees childcare licensing. To verify a provider's status and history in Chesapeake, you should use the VDOE's online "Child Care Search" tool. This public database allows you to search by provider name or location to view their current license status, capacity, and any serious violations or complaint investigations. You can also contact the VDOE's licensure office for the Southeastern region directly. Additionally, the City of Chesapeake's website provides resources and links to this state system. Always visit a potential daycare and ask to see their current license, which should be posted.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Chesapeake, and how can I navigate them?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant rooms and highly-rated centers in Chesapeake, especially in growing suburban neighborhoods. It's not unusual for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months for infants. To navigate this, start your search during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before your needed start date. Get on multiple waitlists (even if there's a small fee) and check in politely every 4-6 weeks to show continued interest. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family daycare homes, which often have more immediate availability. Utilizing resources like the "Child Care Aware of Virginia" referral service can help you identify less-publicized options with shorter waits.
What are the options for subsidized childcare or financial assistance for parents in Chesapeake?
Chesapeake families may qualify for assistance through the Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program, administered locally by the Chesapeake Department of Human Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or attending school). You can apply online through CommonHelp or in person. Additionally, some local daycare centers offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. Military families stationed at Naval Station Norfolk or other nearby installations may have access to fee assistance programs like the Department of Defense's Child Care Fee Assistance program. It's also worth checking with local non-profits and churches that sometimes operate affordable childcare programs.
What should I look for in a daycare regarding preparedness for Chesapeake's weather and emergency events?
Given Chesapeake's susceptibility to hurricanes, tropical storms, and occasional flooding, it's crucial to ask about emergency preparedness. A quality daycare should have a detailed, written emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, shelter-in-place procedures, and communication protocols for parents. Ask where they evacuate to if necessary and how they transport children. Ensure they have supplies like water, non-perishable food, and backup power for several days. Also, inquire about their policy for closures due to severe weather and how they make up those days. During tours, look for signs of good building maintenance, such as proper drainage to mitigate flooding risks in play areas.