The Best Daycare Centers in Hampton, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hampton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hampton
Bright Horizons at Hampton
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Hampton is part of the nationally recognized Bright Horizons network, offering a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on school readiness. The center features state-of-the-art classrooms with age-appropriate learning materials and follows NAEYC-accredited standards. Their World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, literacy development, and STEM activities. Teachers hold early childhood education degrees and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes secure entry systems, dedicated outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal programs. Parent communication is enhanced through daily reports and regular conferences.
Daycare Services:
Children's Harbor at Peninsula
Children's Harbor Learning Centers
Located just minutes from Hampton in Newport News, Children's Harbor serves the broader Hampton Roads area with a play-based learning approach that balances structure and exploration. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios and highly qualified staff with CPR/first aid certification. Their curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, early literacy, and kindergarten readiness skills. The facility includes secure keypad entry, multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with natural lighting. Parents appreciate the strong communication through daily updates and regular parent-teacher meetings, along with the center's focus on creating a nurturing, home-like environment.
Daycare Services:
ABC Early Learning Center
ABC Early Learning Centers
ABC Early Learning Center has been serving Hampton families for nearly two decades with a comprehensive educational program that balances academic preparation and social development. The center uses a research-based curriculum that incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with Virginia's Foundation Blocks for Early Learning. Their experienced teaching staff maintains small class sizes and individualized attention for each child. The facility features secure entry systems, age-separated playgrounds, and bright, well-organized classrooms. The center is known for its strong parent partnerships, regular developmental assessments, and emphasis on creating a warm, inclusive community atmosphere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hampton, VA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Hampton, Virginia, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Hampton, all childcare centers and family day homes serving more than five children must be licensed by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), specifically through the Division of Licensing Programs. Licensed facilities 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 safety. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the VDOE website, which shows the license type, any history of violations, and the facility's current status. You can also contact the VDOE's Tidewater Regional Licensing Office, which oversees Hampton, for specific inquiries.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hampton, and are there financial assistance programs available locally?
In Hampton, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $900 to $1,300 per month, while toddler care averages between $800 and $1,150 per month. Prices vary based on the center's location, curriculum, and amenities. For financial assistance, the primary resource is the Child Care Subsidy Program administered by the Hampton Department of Human Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or attending school). Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships, and military families stationed at nearby bases like Langley AFB may access fee assistance through military childcare programs.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Hampton, and what strategies can I use to secure a spot for my child?
Yes, waitlists are common for many licensed daycare centers in Hampton, especially for infants and toddlers, with some popular centers having waits of 6 months to a year. To improve your chances, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or 4-6 months before you need care. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$75). Consider expanding your search to include licensed family day homes in neighborhoods like Fox Hill or Phoebus, which may have shorter waits. Follow up with centers every 4-6 weeks to show continued interest. Also, explore options through the Hampton Roads Child Care Association for referrals.
What are some key factors to consider when touring a daycare facility in Hampton, specifically related to local safety and preparedness?
When touring a daycare in Hampton, prioritize local safety factors. First, ask about their emergency preparedness plans for hurricanes and severe weather common to the Tidewater area—they should have clear evacuation and communication protocols. Inspect the facility for secure entry systems to prevent unauthorized access. Check that outdoor play areas are fenced and shaded, given Hampton's humid summers. Inquire about staff training in pediatric first aid and if they have a relationship with local pediatric clinics or Riverside Health System for emergencies. Also, verify their compliance with Virginia's Safe Sleep policies for infants and their plan for managing allergies, especially as pollen counts can be high locally.
How does Hampton support early childhood education, and are there publicly funded preschool options for 3- and 4-year-olds?
Hampton supports early education through the Hampton City Schools (HCS) Preschool Program, which offers free, high-quality pre-K for eligible 4-year-olds (and some 3-year-olds) based on factors like family income, developmental needs, or other risk factors. Applications are typically accepted in the spring for the following school year. Additionally, the Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) funds slots in various community-based centers across the city. For families not qualifying for public programs, many private centers in Hampton offer structured preschool curricula aligned with Virginia's Foundation Blocks for Early Learning. The Hampton Early Childhood Development Committee also provides resources and referrals to help families find appropriate early learning settings.