The Best Daycare Centers in Painter, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Painter. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Painter
Eastern Shore Community College Child Development Center
Eastern Shore Community College
This nationally accredited center operates as a lab school for Eastern Shore Community College's early childhood education program. Features a research-based curriculum with highly qualified teachers holding degrees in child development. The center emphasizes play-based learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and observation rooms for parent involvement. Maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and comprehensive safety protocols.
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Shore Early Learning Center
Independent
A highly-regarded independent childcare center serving the Eastern Shore region. Offers comprehensive early childhood programs with a balanced approach to academic preparation and social development. Features structured daily schedules, hands-on learning activities, and regular developmental assessments. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with extensive experience. The facility maintains rigorous safety standards, secure entry systems, and nutritious meal programs. Known for strong parent communication and community involvement.
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Eastern Shore Early Learning Center
Independent
This established center provides quality childcare services across the Eastern Shore region. Features a developmentally appropriate curriculum that combines structured learning with creative exploration. Specializes in early literacy, STEM activities, and social skills development. Maintains small class sizes with qualified teachers trained in early childhood education. The facility includes modern classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and comprehensive security systems. Emphasizes individualized attention and regular progress reporting to parents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Painter, VA
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Painter, VA, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In Painter, VA, parents typically have access to licensed family day homes (in-home care for up to 12 children) and licensed child day centers. Due to Painter's rural setting on Virginia's Eastern Shore, larger daycare centers are less common than in urban areas, making licensed family providers a popular choice. To verify a provider's license, you must check with the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), which oversees childcare licensing. You can search their online database or contact the VDOE directly. Always confirm the license is current and review any compliance history. Local recommendations from other parents at community hubs like the Painter Post Office or the Food Lion are also invaluable for finding trusted, licensed providers.
What is the average cost for full-time infant daycare in Painter, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Painter and the surrounding Accomack County area, full-time infant daycare costs typically range from $120 to $180 per week. Licensed family day homes often fall on the lower end of this range, while any available centers may charge slightly more. Costs are generally lower than in Northern Virginia but are significant relative to local median incomes. For financial assistance, Virginia's Child Care Subsidy Program (commonly managed through the local Department of Social Services) is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school requirements. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts. It's recommended to contact the Accomack County Department of Social Services in Accomac, VA, for the most current application information and eligibility guidelines.
How long are waitlists for daycare in Painter, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Painter, waitlists can be lengthy, especially for infant spots. It is not uncommon for popular licensed family day homes to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. We strongly recommend starting your search during pregnancy, ideally by the second trimester. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and if they charge a fee to be placed on it. Being flexible with your start date can help. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Nassawadox or Onley, but be prepared for potential commuting challenges on the rural Eastern Shore.
What are the key questions to ask a potential daycare provider in Painter during a tour or interview?
Beyond general questions about curriculum and safety, ask specific questions relevant to the Eastern Shore's context. Inquire about their plan for operating during severe weather (like nor'easters or hurricanes) and whether they have backup power. Ask about their policy on agricultural exposure, as Painter is in a farming community—this includes pesticide drift protocols or field trip safety. Clarify their hours of operation, as some local providers may align with seasonal or shift work common in the area. Always ask for references from current parents. Finally, verify their Virginia state license number and ask about their staff's training in pediatric CPR and first aid, which is a state requirement.
Are there any part-time, drop-in, or after-school care programs available for school-age children in Painter?
Traditional drop-in or hourly daycare is extremely rare in Painter. Most licensed providers require set schedules due to strict state staff-to-child ratio regulations. For school-age children, the primary after-school care option is typically provided by the Accomack County Public Schools through programs at the elementary schools. For part-time care (e.g., 2-3 days a week), your best bet is to inquire directly with licensed family day homes, as they may have more flexibility than a center would. Some may offer care aligned with parents' work schedules in local healthcare, education, or agriculture. During summer, look for organized camps through the YMCA or parks and recreation, though these may require travel to a larger town like Accomac or Onancock.