The Best Daycare Centers in Fries, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fries. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fries
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Galax offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development with highly qualified teachers who hold degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide daily communication to parents about their child's progress and activities.
Daycare Services:
TLC Learning Center
Independent
TLC Learning Center provides comprehensive childcare services with a focus on developmental milestones and school readiness. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum approaches with hands-on learning activities, literacy development, and social skills building. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, age-separated classrooms, and nutritious meal programs. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development. The center is known for its family-oriented atmosphere and strong community reputation for quality care.
Daycare Services:
Little Peoples Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
Little Peoples Childcare & Learning Center in Independence serves the Grayson County area with a comprehensive early childhood program emphasizing whole-child development. Their curriculum balances structured learning with play-based activities, focusing on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. The center features secure facilities with age-appropriate learning materials, outdoor play spaces, and family communication systems. Teachers maintain state-required qualifications with ongoing training in early childhood education best practices. The center is particularly noted for its inclusive environment and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fries, VA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Fries, VA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Fries, Virginia, all childcare facilities serving more than five children must be licensed by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), which oversees the licensure process. This includes family day homes (6-12 children) and child day centers (13+ children). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/first aid), child-to-staff ratios, health and safety protocols, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license and view any inspection reports, you can use the VDOE's online "Child Care Search" tool. This is a critical first step for parents in the Fries area to ensure their child's safety and the program's quality.
Given Fries' small-town setting, what types of childcare options are typically available, and are waitlists common?
Due to Fries' rural location in Grayson County, childcare options are more limited compared to larger urban areas. The most common types are licensed family day homes run out of a provider's residence and smaller, home-based programs. There are no large corporate childcare chains in the immediate area. Because of this limited supply, waitlists are very common, especially for infants and toddlers. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search at least 6-9 months before they need care. Networking with other local parents through community groups or churches can sometimes lead to discovering smaller, unadvertised home providers.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Fries, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Fries and surrounding Grayson County, full-time childcare for an infant typically ranges from $125 to $175 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $110 to $150 per week. These costs are generally lower than state averages but must be considered relative to local household incomes. For financial assistance, eligible families can apply for the Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program, which helps low-income working families, those in training, or those receiving protective services. The application is managed by the Virginia Department of Social Services, and the local Grayson County Department of Social Services can provide guidance. Some local churches or community organizations may also offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees.
Are there any childcare programs in Fries that offer part-time, drop-in, or after-school care for school-aged children?
Structured part-time or drop-in care is very limited in Fries due to its size. However, for school-aged children, the primary option is the after-school program operated by Grayson County Public Schools, which serves Fries Elementary students. This program typically provides care at the school until 5:30 or 6:00 PM on school days. For true drop-in or irregular part-time care, parents often need to arrange private babysitting with trusted local individuals. Some licensed family day homes may offer before- or after-school care with transportation from Fries Elementary, but this is not guaranteed and requires direct inquiry.
How does the seasonal and agricultural nature of the Fries community impact childcare availability?
Fries' location along the New River and its historical ties to agriculture and seasonal tourism can create unique childcare challenges. During peak summer months, some providers may adjust hours or close for vacation, while demand might increase with seasonal workers. Conversely, some family-based providers may have more flexibility during off-seasons. It's important to ask potential providers about their year-round schedule, holiday closures, and policies for weeks they may take off. Parents employed in seasonal work should seek providers who understand and can accommodate potentially fluctuating schedules or income. Building a relationship with a local, established provider is key to navigating these seasonal variations.