The Best Daycare Centers in Hume, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hume. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hume
The Plains Children's Center
The Plains Children's Center
The Plains Children's Center is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility serving the Hume area with a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum. The center features small class sizes with low teacher-to-child ratios, experienced early childhood educators, and a nurturing environment that emphasizes social-emotional development. Their program includes outdoor exploration in natural settings, creative arts, literacy development, and hands-on learning activities. The facility maintains excellent safety protocols and strong parent communication systems, with many families praising the dedicated staff and personalized attention each child receives.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Warrenton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Part of the nationally recognized Goddard School system, this Warrenton location serves the Hume community with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. The school features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials, modern security systems including keypad entry, and age-appropriate learning environments. Curriculum includes STEAM activities, language arts, mathematics, and character development. Parents consistently praise the professional staff, clean facilities, and the school's ability to prepare children for elementary school while maintaining a warm, caring atmosphere.
Daycare Services:
KinderCare at Warrenton
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare's Warrenton center provides high-quality early childhood education to families in the Hume area with a research-based curriculum that supports cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. The facility features dedicated learning centers, secure entry systems, and nutritious meal programs. Their experienced teaching staff includes professionals with degrees in early childhood education who receive ongoing professional development. The program emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts through hands-on learning experiences. Parents highlight the center's strong communication, consistent routines, and the visible developmental progress children make throughout their enrollment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hume, VA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Hume, Virginia, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Hume, Virginia, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), which oversees the licensing division. This includes family day homes (serving 5-12 children) and child day centers. Key requirements include background checks for all staff, minimum staff-to-child ratios based on age (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:10 for 4-year-olds), health and safety inspections, and age-appropriate curriculum standards. To verify a specific facility's license and any history of violations, you can use the VDOE's online "Child Care Search" tool. Given Hume's rural setting in Fauquier County, it's especially important to confirm licensing, as some smaller, home-based operations might not be properly registered.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in and around Hume, VA, and what strategies can help secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of dedicated childcare centers in the immediate Hume area, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant and toddler care. High-demand centers in nearby towns like Warrenton or Marshall may also have lengthy lists. To improve your chances, we recommend contacting providers as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy. Get on multiple lists, even for facilities that are a 15-20 minute drive away. Follow up with providers every 2-3 months to express continued interest. Also, consider licensed family day homes in Hume proper, as they may have more flexible availability and shorter wait times than larger centers.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Hume, VA?
Childcare costs in Hume and surrounding Fauquier County are moderately high, reflecting both the quality of care and the limited supply. For a licensed child day center, you can expect to pay an average of $1,200 to $1,500 per month for full-time infant care. Toddler care typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,300 per month. Licensed family day homes in the area may offer slightly lower rates, often between $900 and $1,200 monthly. These costs are generally in line with the broader Northern Virginia region. It's important to inquire about what is included in tuition, such as meals, diapers, and enrichment activities.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs or financial assistance options available to help Hume residents with childcare costs?
Yes, the primary program is the Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by the Fauquier County Department of Social Services. This state-funded program provides financial assistance to eligible low-income families, those participating in workforce training, or parents pursuing education. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. Given the rural nature of Hume, it's also worth checking with community organizations or churches that might offer limited assistance or operate affordable preschool programs. The first step is to contact the Fauquier DSS office to complete an application.
What are the most common types of childcare options available specifically within Hume, given its rural setting?
Given Hume's small, rural community within Fauquier County, the most prevalent options are licensed family day homes (FDH) operated in a provider's residence. These are popular as they offer a home-like setting and may be more flexible with hours. There are very few, if any, large commercial daycare centers within Hume's town limits. Many families also utilize in-home nannies or au pairs, which can be a practical solution given the area's spread-out geography. For preschool-age children, part-day programs are often offered through local churches or community centers. For more structured center-based care, parents typically commute to larger facilities in Warrenton, about a 20-minute drive away.