The Best Daycare Centers in Radford, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Radford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Radford
Radford University Child Development Center
Radford University
Operated by Radford University's College of Education and Human Development, this center serves as a model early childhood education facility and training site for education students. The center follows a research-based developmental approach with low teacher-to-child ratios and highly qualified staff including certified early childhood educators. Curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and university resources. Parents praise the professional staff, educational quality, and comprehensive developmental tracking.
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The Goddard School of Christiansburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
This highly-rated Goddard School location serves the Radford area with a F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Features state-certified teachers, secure facility with keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. Curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. Modern facilities include age-specific playgrounds, interactive smartboards, and dedicated art/music spaces. Parents consistently praise the communication, cleanliness, and the center's ability to prepare children for elementary school.
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Kiddie Academy of Christiansburg
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Part of the nationally recognized Kiddie Academy chain, this location serves Radford families with their Life Essentials® curriculum focusing on character education, STEM learning, and literacy development. Features degreed teachers, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and nutritious meal programs. The academy emphasizes technology integration, hands-on learning centers, and regular progress assessments. Parents highlight the structured yet nurturing environment, excellent communication through their mobile app, and strong emphasis on both academic and social skills development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Radford, VA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Radford, VA?
In Radford, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For center-based care, you can expect to pay approximately $800 to $1,100 per month for an infant, and slightly less, around $700 to $950 per month, for a toddler. Home-based family daycare is often more affordable, typically ranging from $600 to $850 per month. These costs are generally lower than in larger Virginia metros like Roanoke or Northern Virginia, but availability can be limited due to the smaller number of providers. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Many facilities in Radford also require a one-time registration fee.
How can I verify if a daycare in Radford is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All licensed childcare centers and family day homes in Radford are regulated by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), specifically the Division of Early Childhood Care and Education. You can verify a provider's license, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the VDOE website. During an in-person tour, look for clear evidence of the license posted, ask about staff-to-child ratios (Virginia requires 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers, and 1:10 for 4-year-olds), observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment, and inquire about staff qualifications and ongoing training. In Radford, also ask about their emergency procedures, especially given the city's proximity to the New River and the local university campus.
Are there any subsidized childcare assistance programs available for families in Radford with limited income?
Yes, eligible families in Radford can apply for the Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program, which is administered locally by the New River Valley Community Services Board. This program helps low-income families, those participating in workforce training, or parents pursuing education to pay for childcare at participating licensed or registered providers. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. It's recommended to contact the Radford Department of Social Services or the Community Services Board directly to begin the application process, as waitlists for subsidies can exist.
What is the typical waitlist situation for daycare centers in Radford, and how far in advance should I apply?
Due to the high demand and limited number of slots, especially for infants and toddlers, waitlists are common at many licensed daycare centers in Radford. It is not unusual for popular centers affiliated with local institutions like Radford University to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months or more. For the best chance of securing a spot, parents are strongly advised to begin contacting and touring facilities as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before their needed start date. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$75). Exploring licensed family day homes can sometimes offer a shorter wait time.
Are there childcare options in Radford that cater to nontraditional hours, like evenings or weekends, for parents who work in healthcare or shift work?
Finding childcare for evenings, overnight, or weekends in Radford is challenging, as most traditional centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best options are to seek out licensed family day homes, as some providers may offer more flexible hours to accommodate shift workers common in the region's healthcare sector. You can also explore in-home nanny shares or babysitting networks, potentially utilizing responsible students from Radford University who have background checks and childcare experience. Resources like the New River Valley Community Services Board may have referrals for providers who offer variable-hour care. Be sure to clearly communicate your schedule needs during your initial inquiries.