The Best Daycare Centers in Sterling, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sterling. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sterling
Kiddie Academy of Sterling
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Sterling provides comprehensive educational childcare with their proprietary Life Essentials curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Their degreed teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities in bright, modern classrooms with dedicated learning centers. The facility includes multiple age-specific playgrounds and emphasizes health and wellness through nutritious meal programs. Parents appreciate the consistent communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Chesterbrook Academy Preschool
Chesterbrook Academy
Chesterbrook Academy in Sterling offers a research-based curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development. The center features dedicated STEM labs, literacy-rich classrooms, and outdoor learning environments. Their Links to Learning curriculum focuses on school readiness with emphasis on early literacy, mathematics, and critical thinking skills. The facility maintains low student-teacher ratios and employs educators with degrees in early childhood education. Safety protocols include secured entry systems, comprehensive emergency procedures, and regular safety drills. The center also offers enrichment programs in music, Spanish, and physical education.
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The Goddard School of Sterling
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Sterling implements the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that promotes play-based learning while developing academic and social skills. The school features purpose-built classrooms with advanced security systems, including electronic entry and surveillance monitoring. Their faculty includes certified teachers with backgrounds in early childhood development who receive ongoing professional development. The curriculum incorporates STEAM learning, language development, and social skills through structured play and hands-on activities. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds and indoor motor skills areas. Parents consistently praise the school's communication and the visible progress in their children's development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sterling, VA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Sterling, VA, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Sterling, VA, the average cost for full-time infant daycare ranges from $1,600 to $2,200 per month, while toddler care typically costs between $1,400 and $1,900 per month. These rates are influenced by factors such as the center's accreditation, staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities. For financial assistance, Virginia offers the Child Care Subsidy Program for eligible families based on income and need, administered through the Loudoun County Department of Family Services. Additionally, many centers in Sterling participate in the Virginia Child Care Provider Grant program, which can help reduce costs. It's also worth checking if your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or has partnerships with local childcare providers for discounted rates.
How long are typical waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Sterling, and what can I do to secure a spot sooner?
Waitlists for highly-rated licensed daycare centers in Sterling can be quite long, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant rooms. To improve your chances, start your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. Be proactive by contacting centers directly to inquire about their specific waitlist policies—some may require a deposit. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family daycare homes in Sterling neighborhoods, which often have shorter waitlists and can provide more flexible hours. Additionally, staying in regular contact with centers (e.g., a polite check-in every 2-3 months) can keep your application top-of-mind if a spot opens unexpectedly.
What are the Virginia state licensing requirements for daycare providers in Sterling, and how can I verify a provider's compliance?
All daycare centers and family daycare homes in Sterling must be licensed by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), which sets standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:10 for 4-year-olds). Providers must pass background checks, have CPR/first aid certification, and meet ongoing training requirements. To verify compliance, you can use the VDOE's online "Child Care Search" tool to look up any provider's license status, inspection reports, and any history of violations. You can also contact the Loudoun County Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue or the VDOE directly. Always ask to see a provider's current license during your tour.
Are there any unique childcare options or programs in Sterling that cater to parents with non-traditional work hours?
Yes, Sterling offers several options for parents with shift work or irregular hours. Some larger daycare centers, particularly those near major employers like Washington Dulles International Airport and data centers, offer extended hours (e.g., 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM) or weekend care. Additionally, there are licensed family childcare providers in residential areas who may offer more flexible, personalized schedules. For occasional or emergency care, drop-in centers like "The Coop" in nearby Ashburn can be a resource. It's also worth exploring nanny shares with other families in your Sterling neighborhood, which can be arranged through local parent groups on social media platforms like Nextdoor or Facebook.
What resources are available in Sterling to help me evaluate and choose a quality daycare, beyond basic licensing?
Sterling parents have several local resources to assess daycare quality. First, check if a center is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or holds a Virginia Quality Birth-to-Five rating—a state-recognized quality benchmark. The Loudoun County Public Library system often hosts "Parent Resource Fairs" where you can meet providers. Online, the local "Loudoun County Moms" Facebook group is invaluable for firsthand reviews and recommendations. You can also contact the Loudoun County Child Care Office for referrals. When visiting, ask about staff turnover rates (low is better), curriculum approach (play-based vs. academic), and how they handle emergencies specific to our area, such as inclement weather closures or security protocols.
Childcare Insights for Sterling
As the school year winds down, many parents in Sterling find themselves facing the annual question: what are the best summer daycare options near me? The search for reliable, engaging, and safe summer care in our community is a priority for families who want their children to enjoy their break while continuing to learn and socialize. Sterling, Virginia, with its blend of suburban neighborhoods and access to parks like the Washington & Old Dominion Trail, offers a wonderful backdrop for summer programs, but knowing where to look is key.
When beginning your search for summer daycare in Sterling, timing is everything. Many of the most popular programs, especially those run by the Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services or through local community centers, begin registration as early as spring. It’s advisable to start your inquiries now, even if summer feels a little way off. A great first step is to define what "summer daycare" means for your family. Are you looking for a traditional, full-day childcare setting, or is a themed summer camp with weekly activities more aligned with your child’s interests? Sterling is fortunate to have a variety of both.
For younger children, many local daycare centers and in-home providers in Sterling offer extended summer programs that blend their usual curriculum with more outdoor play and seasonal activities. These can be a comforting constant for little ones who thrive on routine. For school-age children, exploring the camps offered at places like the Sterling Community Center or the various options through Loudoun County can provide fantastic, structured fun. These often include field trips, sports, arts and crafts, and science projects, all designed to beat summer boredom. Don’t overlook local churches, gymnastics centers, and martial arts studios in the Sterling area, as they frequently host specialized summer camps that can fill a few weeks of your schedule.
A crucial local consideration for Sterling parents is transportation. Given our area's layout, understanding the pickup and drop-off logistics is essential. Some programs offer bus service from central locations, while others require you to handle transit. When you visit or call a potential summer daycare, ask about their daily schedule for outdoor time. With our humid Virginia summers, a good program will have a balance of shaded play, water activities to stay cool, and ample indoor space for the hottest parts of the day. Also, inquire about how they incorporate local flavor; the best programs might include nature walks, visits to the Sterling Library, or themes about Virginia history.
Finally, trust your instincts and your child’s personality. The right summer environment in Sterling should feel safe, welcoming, and stimulating. Schedule a visit if possible, talk to other parents in your neighborhood or through local social media groups for personal recommendations, and don’t hesitate to ask for references. A successful summer in Sterling is built on a mix of adventure and security, allowing your child to make happy memories while giving you peace of mind. With a little planning, you can find a summer solution that feels just right for your family right here in our community.