The Best Daycare Centers in Redwood, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Redwood. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Redwood
The Goddard School of Fairfax
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Fairfax is a highly-regarded early childhood education center serving the Redwood area with a play-based learning approach rooted in the Goddard LifeReady® curriculum. The school emphasizes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities and social-emotional development through structured play and hands-on learning. All lead teachers hold bachelor's degrees or higher in early childhood education or related fields, and the facility maintains low student-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention. The center features secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and age-appropriate indoor/outdoor play spaces. Parents praise the consistent communication through daily reports and the center's focus on preparing children for kindergarten with strong literacy and numeracy foundations.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Fairfax
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare Learning Center in Fairfax provides comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that aligns with Virginia's early learning standards. The center offers age-specific programs including phonics-based reading readiness for preschoolers and sensory development for infants. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, with many holding Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials or higher. The facility includes secure classrooms, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and a nutrition program that serves USDA-approved meals and snacks. Parents consistently highlight the center's strong communication through the KinderCare app, which provides real-time updates and photos, and the engaging learning environments that foster curiosity and independence.
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Bright Horizons at Fairfax
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Fairfax delivers high-quality early education through their World at Their Fingers® curriculum, which integrates emergent programming with structured learning experiences in literacy, math, and science. The center features dedicated art studios, movement spaces, and natural outdoor environments that encourage exploration. All teachers meet or exceed Virginia licensing requirements, with ongoing professional development in child development best practices. Safety is prioritized with secured entrances, regular health inspections, and comprehensive emergency preparedness plans. Families appreciate the center's inclusive approach, family engagement events, and flexibility with scheduling options, including part-time and back-up care for working parents in the Redwood area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Redwood, VA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Redwood, Virginia, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Redwood, Virginia, all childcare facilities caring for more than five children (excluding the provider's own) must be licensed by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). This includes family day homes, child day centers, and preschools. Licensed providers 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 inspections. To verify a provider's license and view any history of violations, you can use the VDOE's online "Child Care Search" tool. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers to ensure your child's safety and a regulated standard of care.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Redwood, VA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
The average cost for full-time infant daycare in the Redwood area typically ranges from $900 to $1,200 per month, though prices can vary based on the type of facility (center-based vs. in-home) and the specific programs offered. This is slightly below the state average for Virginia's more urban areas. For financial assistance, Virginia offers the Child Care Subsidy Program for eligible families based on income, work, or school enrollment requirements. You can apply through the Redwood Department of Social Services. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Redwood, and when should I start looking?
For the most sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Redwood, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant and toddler rooms. It is not uncommon for families to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. Given this, it is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length, their process (e.g., if a deposit is required to hold a spot), and how often they update families on their status.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in the Redwood, VA area?
Yes, Redwood's proximity to natural areas like the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley has inspired several childcare options with an outdoor focus. Some local providers and preschools incorporate "forest school" principles, with significant portions of the day spent in outdoor learning and play, regardless of weather (with proper gear). These programs emphasize exploration, physical activity, and environmental education. Availability is more limited than traditional daycare, and they often have specific philosophies, so it's important to research and visit to see if their approach aligns with your family's values. Checking with local parenting groups on social media is a great way to find current recommendations.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Redwood, and what local-specific questions should I ask?
During a tour, observe the cleanliness, safety (outlet covers, secure gates), and the overall mood—are the children engaged and happy? Watch how staff interact with the children. Specifically for Redwood, ask about their policies for inclement weather, such as snow days or severe thunderstorms, and if they follow local school closures. Inquire about their outdoor play area security and sun protection. Ask about their community involvement—do they take walks, visit the local library, or have partnerships with nearby farms? Also, confirm their licensing status with the VDOE and ask for references from other local families. Understanding their sick policy is crucial, as it directly impacts your ability to work in the local community.