The Best Daycare Centers in Surry, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Surry. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Surry
The Goddard School of Williamsburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Williamsburg offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, clean classrooms. Highly qualified teachers implement STEAM-based curriculum with daily enrichment activities including Spanish, yoga, and music. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides nutritious meals. Their comprehensive safety protocols and regular parent communication make them a top choice for families in the Surry area.
Daycare Services:
Williamsburg Montessori School
Independent
Williamsburg Montessori School provides authentic Montessori education with AMI-trained teachers and carefully prepared environments. The school serves children from infancy through elementary years with individualized learning plans that foster independence and natural curiosity. Their beautiful campus includes organic gardens, nature trails, and spacious classrooms with authentic Montessori materials. The school emphasizes whole-child development, cultural awareness, and community involvement. With small class sizes and highly qualified staff, they offer a nurturing environment that respects each child's unique developmental timeline.
Daycare Services:
The Children's Harbor Learning Center at Patriots Colony
Children's Harbor
The Children's Harbor Learning Center at Patriots Colony offers a comprehensive early childhood program with research-based curriculum that focuses on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Their secure facility features modern classrooms, interactive technology, and expansive outdoor play areas. The center employs degreed teachers who implement Creative Curriculum with supplemental literacy and math programs. They provide healthy meals and snacks through their nutrition program and maintain excellent staff-to-child ratios. The center's strong safety record, including secure check-in systems and regular emergency drills, provides peace of mind for parents commuting from Surry.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Surry, VA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Surry, Virginia, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Surry, Virginia, all child day centers and family day homes serving more than five children (excluding the provider's own) must be licensed by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR, first aid, and mandated reporter duties), child-to-staff ratios, health and safety protocols, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the **Virginia Department of Education's Child Care Search** tool online. This public database shows the license status, any monitoring reports, and substantiated complaints. For very small in-home care (5 or fewer children), providers may be legally exempt from licensing but can choose to become voluntarily registered. Always ask to see a current license and feel free to contact the VDOE's Division of Early Childhood Care and Education for the Piedmont Region for clarification.
What is the average cost of full-time infant and toddler daycare in Surry, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Surry and the surrounding rural Tidewater area, full-time daycare costs are generally moderate compared to major Virginia metros but can vary. For an infant, you can expect an average of **$700-$950 per month** at a licensed center. Toddler care typically ranges from **$650-$850 per month**. Family day homes may offer slightly lower rates. A key local resource for financial assistance is the **Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program**, administered locally by the Surry Department of Social Services. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school/training requirements. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth inquiring about possible support through community organizations or employers with regional presence, like the Surry Nuclear Power Station.
Given Surry's rural location, how can I find and evaluate available childcare options, and are waitlists common?
Finding childcare in a rural community like Surry requires a proactive, multi-pronged approach. Start with the **Virginia Child Care Search** tool, filtering by zip code (23883). Contact the **Surry County Office on Youth and Family Services** for local referrals. Network through community hubs like the Surry County Recreation Center, local churches (which often host preschool programs), and Facebook community groups (e.g., "Surry, VA Community"). Due to limited slots, especially for infants and toddlers, **waitlists are common and can be several months long**. It's advisable to begin your search during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before you need care. When evaluating, prioritize visiting in person, observing staff-child interactions, and asking about their policies for inclement weather and transportation, given the county's layout.
What are the typical operating hours for daycares in Surry, and how do they handle early drop-off or late pick-up needs for commuting parents?
Most licensed daycare centers in Surry operate on a schedule aligned with local work patterns, typically from around **6:30 AM to 6:00 PM**, Monday through Friday. Family day homes may have more flexible or varied hours. Given that many parents commute to jobs in Williamsburg, Newport News, or even Richmond, it's crucial to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront. Many providers offer early drop-off (as early as 6:00 AM) or late pick-up (until 6:30 PM) for an additional fee, often charged per 15-minute increment after the official closing time. Be sure to get their late pick-up policy in writing, as strict penalties are common to ensure staff can depart on time. Some providers may not accommodate very early or late hours, so this is a key question during your initial tour.
Are there any unique programs or childcare options in Surry that incorporate the area's agricultural or historical character?
Yes, Surry's rich agricultural and historical setting influences some unique childcare offerings. Several family day homes and smaller centers may incorporate **garden-based learning**, where children help with planting and harvesting in small gardens, connecting them to the region's farming heritage. Some programs partner with local attractions like **Chippokes Plantation State Park** for occasional educational field trips or nature-based learning themes. Furthermore, given the county's history, some preschool curricula may include age-appropriate lessons on local landmarks and Indigenous and colonial history. While not all centers have formalized programs, many providers take advantage of the safe, rural environment for ample outdoor play and nature exploration, which is a significant benefit for child development in this community.