The Best Daycare Centers in Covington, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Covington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Covington
Primrose School of Clifton Forge
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Clifton Forge provides high-quality early education and childcare services to the Covington area with their Balanced Learning® approach. This nationally accredited facility features a research-based curriculum that balances purposeful play with nurturing guidance from qualified teachers. The school offers age-appropriate learning environments for infants through school-age children, with dedicated classrooms for each developmental stage. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, math, science, social studies, and character development. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and rigorous health protocols. The facility includes both indoor and outdoor learning spaces designed to stimulate cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development.
Daycare Services:
Mountain Gateway Community College Child Development Center
Mountain Gateway Community College
Operated by Mountain Gateway Community College, this NAEYC-accredited child development center serves as both a childcare facility and a training ground for early childhood education students. The center implements a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and social-emotional development. Highly qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education create individualized learning experiences while maintaining low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility features modern classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and observation areas for college students. Nutritional meals are provided through the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program. The center maintains strong partnerships with families through regular communication and parent involvement opportunities.
Daycare Services:
Bath County Children's Center
Bath County Public Schools
Bath County Children's Center provides comprehensive childcare services to families in the Covington region with a strong emphasis on school readiness and community engagement. The center follows Virginia's Foundation Blocks for Early Learning standards, incorporating literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies into daily activities. Their experienced teaching staff includes professionals with degrees in early childhood education and ongoing professional development. The facility features secure, age-appropriate learning environments with modern educational materials and outdoor play areas. The program emphasizes character development, social skills, and independence while maintaining rigorous safety protocols including controlled access, emergency preparedness plans, and health screening procedures.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Covington, VA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Covington, VA, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Covington and the surrounding Alleghany Highlands region, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $130 to $180 per week, while care for a preschool-aged child is generally between $110 and $150 per week. These rates are often more affordable than in larger Virginia metropolitan areas. For financial assistance, parents can apply for the Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program through the Alleghany Highlands Department of Social Services, located in Covington. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need, such as employment or attending school. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How do I verify a daycare is licensed and what are the key state regulations for Virginia providers?
All licensed childcare centers and family day homes in Covington must comply with Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) standards. You can verify a provider's license and view any past violations through the VDOE's online "Child Care Search" portal. Key regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:10 for 4-year-olds), background checks for all employees, annual health and safety inspections, and required training in CPR, first aid, and mandated reporter duties. In Covington, the local health department also conducts inspections. It's a good practice to ask any provider you visit for their most recent inspection report.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Covington, and when should I start looking for an infant spot?
Due to a limited number of providers in the Covington area, waitlists for infant care, in particular, can be common and may extend several months. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin contacting daycare centers and registered family day homes early in the second trimester of pregnancy. Some popular providers may have waitlists that are a year long. For preschool-aged children, availability is generally better, but it's still wise to start your search at least 3-4 months before you need care. Be prepared to place a deposit to secure a future spot.
What types of childcare settings are most common in Covington, and how do I choose between them?
Covington primarily offers two types of licensed childcare: centers and family day homes. Centers are larger facilities, often with multiple classrooms and structured curricula, such as those affiliated with local churches or community organizations. Family day homes are smaller, home-based settings caring for a smaller group of children, which can offer a more familial atmosphere. Your choice depends on your child's needs and your preferences. Consider factors like the daily schedule, educational philosophy, indoor/outdoor play space (especially important given Covington's access to outdoor activities), and the provider's experience. Visiting both types is the best way to decide.
Beyond basic care, what enrichment or preschool programs are integrated into local Covington daycares?
Many Covington daycare providers integrate early learning programs that align with Virginia's Early Learning and Development Standards (ELDS). It's common to find curricula that include literacy foundations, basic math concepts, science exploration, and social-emotional learning. Given the local environment, some programs may incorporate nature-based learning, utilizing nearby areas like the Jackson River or the surrounding national forest. For children aged 3-5, several centers offer structured preschool programs that prepare children for kindergarten in Alleghany County Public Schools. Be sure to ask providers about their daily lesson plans and how they track developmental milestones.