The Best Daycare Centers in Goodview, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Goodview. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Goodview
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Roanoke serves the Goodview area with a premier early childhood education program featuring F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with interactive technology. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, and social-emotional development, with daily updates provided to parents through their proprietary mobile app. The center offers nutritious meals and has comprehensive safety protocols including regular drills and background-checked staff.
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KinderCare at Tanglewood
KinderCare Learning Companies
This KinderCare location provides comprehensive early childhood education serving Goodview families with research-based curriculum that includes phonics-based reading readiness, mathematics, and science exploration. Their team includes credentialed early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. The center features secure keypad entry, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and developmentally appropriate learning centers. Their program emphasizes character development and school readiness skills, with regular progress reports and parent-teacher conferences. The facility maintains strict health and safety standards including sanitization protocols and emergency preparedness training.
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Rainbow Riders Child Care Center
Rainbow Riders, Inc.
Rainbow Riders is a locally-owned childcare center serving the Goodview area with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Creative Curriculum standards. Their experienced teaching staff includes professionals with early childhood credentials and longevity averaging 5+ years at the center. The facility features secure access controls, fenced playgrounds with safety surfaces, and bright, well-equipped classrooms. Their program emphasizes social skills development, early literacy, and hands-on learning experiences. The center provides homemade nutritious meals and maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. Parents appreciate the strong community feel and consistent communication through daily reports and regular family events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Goodview, VA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Goodview, VA?
In Goodview and the surrounding Franklin County area, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $175 to $225 per week for infant care. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, typically ranging from $150 to $200 per week. Home-based family daycares are often more affordable, with weekly rates averaging $120 to $180. These costs are generally lower than in larger Virginia metros like Roanoke, but it's important to factor in that many facilities have waitlists, especially for infants. Some providers may offer a small discount for a second child. Always ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials.
How do I verify that a daycare provider in Goodview is properly licensed and what should I look for during a visit?
All licensed childcare providers in Virginia are regulated by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the VDOE website. When visiting a potential daycare in Goodview, look for specific local indicators of quality: a clean and safe environment, a posted license, low staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants), and evidence of engaging activities. Ask about staff qualifications and turnover rates—consistent caregivers are crucial. Also, inquire about their emergency procedures, especially for weather events common to the Smith Mountain Lake region. A reputable center will welcome your questions and encourage an open-door policy for parents.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Goodview?
Yes, eligible families in Goodview can apply for financial assistance through the Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program, administered locally by the Franklin County Department of Social Services. This program helps low-income working families, those in job training, or families receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) pay for childcare at participating licensed or registered providers. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. Additionally, some local churches and community organizations around Smith Mountain Lake may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fee programs. It's best to contact the Franklin County DSS office directly or speak with your chosen daycare provider, as they often have information on local resources and can guide you through the application process.
What is the average waitlist time for daycare centers in Goodview, and how can I improve my chances of securing a spot?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Goodview, waitlist times can be lengthy, particularly for infants under 18 months. It is common to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for highly sought-after centers. To improve your chances, start your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy. Be proactive: call providers every 4-6 weeks to express continued interest and confirm your spot on the list. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family daycares in nearby areas like Rocky Mount or Moneta, which may have shorter wait times. Being flexible with your start date can also help. Many parents in Goodview find that networking through local community Facebook groups or asking for referrals from pediatricians at Carilion Franklin Memorial Hospital can uncover lesser-known openings.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically in Goodview, and what are the pros and cons of each?
Goodview offers three primary types of licensed childcare options. First, **Daycare Centers** (like those potentially affiliated with local churches or standalone businesses) offer structured programs, multiple staff, and often longer hours. They are reliable but may have the longest waitlists and highest costs. Second, **Licensed Family Daycare Homes** operate out of a provider's residence. These are popular in Goodview's residential areas and offer a home-like setting with mixed-age groups, often with more flexibility and lower rates, but capacity is very limited (up to 12 children). Third, **Religiously Exempt Child Day Centers** are often operated by churches. They are exempt from state licensure but must meet basic health and safety standards; it's vital to inquire deeply about their policies and staff training. For school-age children, the Franklin County Public Schools system may offer before/after-school programs at local elementary schools like Sontag or Lee M. Waid.