The Best Daycare Centers in Upperville, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Upperville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Upperville
The Plains Children's Preschool
The Plains Children's Preschool
The Plains Children's Preschool is a highly-regarded early childhood education center serving the Upperville area with a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum. The school focuses on social-emotional development, literacy, and hands-on learning experiences. With small class sizes and low student-teacher ratios, children receive individualized attention from experienced educators holding early childhood credentials. The facility features bright, well-equipped classrooms, outdoor play spaces, and a nature-based learning environment that aligns with the rural character of the region. Parents consistently praise the nurturing atmosphere, strong community connections, and excellent preparation for kindergarten.
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Middleburg Community Center Preschool
Middleburg Community Center
Located just minutes from Upperville, Middleburg Community Center Preschool offers a comprehensive early childhood program emphasizing creative expression, social development, and academic readiness. The curriculum balances structured learning with child-directed activities, incorporating music, art, and physical education. Certified teachers with extensive early childhood experience create a warm, inclusive environment. The center features modern classrooms, secure outdoor playgrounds, and utilizes the broader community center facilities for enrichment activities. The program is noted for its strong parent-teacher communication, safety protocols, and commitment to developing confident, curious learners.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
While located in Ashburn, this Goddard School serves families throughout Loudoun County, including Upperville residents seeking premium childcare with a robust educational foundation. The school implements the Goddard F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), which balances academic preparation with social development and creative expression. Features include state-of-the-art security systems, STEM labs, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritionally balanced meals. The highly qualified teaching staff maintains low student-teacher ratios and receives ongoing professional development. Parents appreciate the comprehensive curriculum, daily communication through the proprietary app, and the school's commitment to safety and developmental excellence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Upperville, VA
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Upperville, VA, and how can I verify their licensing status?
In Upperville and the surrounding Loudoun/Fauquier County area, parents typically find three main types of licensed options: family day homes (in-home care for smaller groups), church-affiliated preschools, and private daycare centers. Due to Upperville's rural nature, family day homes are particularly common. To verify licensing, you must use the Virginia Department of Education's (VDOE) "Child Care Search" portal. All licensed providers in Virginia are regulated by the VDOE, not the Department of Social Services. You can search by zip code (20184) to see inspection reports, capacity, and any compliance history. Always confirm the license is current and view the latest inspection summary before enrolling.
Given Upperville's location, are there long waitlists for daycare, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, due to limited providers in this small, equestrian-focused community, waitlists are common and can be lengthy, especially for infant care. It is strongly advised to begin your search during pregnancy, ideally 6-12 months before your needed start date. Many families in Upperville also look at options in nearby towns like Middleburg, The Plains, or even Warrenton, which may have more facilities but also experience high demand. Contacting providers as early as possible to get on multiple waitlists is a standard strategy here. Be prepared for potential deposits to secure a future spot.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Upperville, VA?
Costs in Upperville align with the higher cost of living in Loudoun and Fauquier Counties. For a licensed family day home, you can expect to pay approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per month for full-time infant care. A center-based program, if available locally, may range from $1,500 to $1,900 or more per month. These rates are typically higher than state averages due to the affluence of the area and operational costs. It's important to ask what is included (meals, formula, diapers, enrichment activities) as these can vary significantly between providers and impact the overall value.
Are there any unique childcare programs in Upperville that incorporate its rural and equestrian culture?
Absolutely. Some family day homes and smaller preschool programs in the area leverage the local environment for learning. It's not uncommon to find providers who include nature-based play, farm animal education, and gentle introductions to horseback riding or pony care as part of their curriculum, often through partnerships with local farms. Several providers also emphasize outdoor play and exploration, aligning with the community's values. When touring, ask specifically about daily outdoor time, any animal interactions, and how they incorporate the local landscape into their activities. These specialized experiences are a distinctive feature of childcare in this community.
What resources are available for finding and evaluating in-home nannies or babysitters in Upperville?
For in-home care, many Upperville families utilize local networks due to the tight-knit community. Key resources include word-of-mouth referrals through neighborhood associations, local Facebook groups (e.g., "Upperville Community"), and bulletin boards at places like the Upperville Market or the local library. For more formal searches, agencies based in Middleburg or Warrenton that specialize in placing household staff in the Virginia hunt country are commonly used. Always conduct thorough background checks, verify references, and clearly define terms of employment, including pay (which is often hourly and can range from $20-$30+), taxes, and responsibilities, as nannies are household employees.