The Best Daycare Centers in Urbanna, VA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Urbanna. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Urbanna
The Goddard School of Gloucester
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Gloucester offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms with hands-on learning centers. They emphasize STEAM learning, language development, and character education while maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios. The school provides nutritious meals and snacks and offers flexible scheduling options for working families.
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KinderCare at Gloucester
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Gloucester provides comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that aligns with Virginia's early learning standards. Their program includes phonics-based reading readiness, mathematics foundations, and social-emotional learning. The center features secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and regular health screenings. Certified teachers create individualized learning plans and maintain detailed progress reports. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, age-appropriate outdoor play spaces, and enrichment programs in music and movement. They offer full-time, part-time, and drop-in care options with extended hours to accommodate various family schedules.
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Middle Peninsula Northern Neck Children's Center
MPNN Children's Center
Middle Peninsula Northern Neck Children's Center is a highly-regarded nonprofit childcare facility serving families across the Middle Peninsula region. Their NAEYC-accredited program emphasizes developmentally appropriate practices with a play-based learning approach. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, degreed lead teachers, and comprehensive early literacy programs. Their facility includes secure classrooms, nutritious meal programs following USDA guidelines, and extensive outdoor learning environments. They offer inclusive programming for children with special needs and maintain strong partnerships with local school systems for smooth transitions to kindergarten. The center is known for its family engagement initiatives and community-focused approach to early childhood education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Urbanna, VA
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Urbanna, Virginia?
In Urbanna, Virginia, parents primarily have access to two types of licensed childcare: family day homes and child day centers. Family day homes are smaller, home-based operations licensed for 5-12 children, offering a more intimate setting often found in residential areas. Given Urbanna's small-town setting, these are common. Child day centers are larger facilities, which in a town like Urbanna might be limited; parents often look in nearby towns like Saluda or Kilmarnock for more center-based options. All licensed providers in Virginia must meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and program activities. The Virginia Department of Education's Division of Early Childhood Care and Education oversees licensing. Due to limited local options, many Urbanna families also consider registered (but not licensed) family day homes for up to 4 children, or in-home nannies.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare in the Urbanna area, and are there financial assistance programs?
For full-time infant care in the Urbanna area, costs typically range from $800 to $1,100 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, the range is approximately $700 to $950 per month. These costs are generally in line with the rural to semi-rural Tidewater region of Virginia. Prices can be slightly higher for centers in nearby larger towns. Financial assistance is available through the Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program, administered locally by the Middle Peninsula-Northern Neck Community Services Board. Eligibility is based on income, work, or training/education requirements. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth inquiring about potential support through local organizations or churches in Middlesex County.
How long are waitlists for daycare in Urbanna, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Urbanna, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It's not uncommon for popular family day homes or the nearest centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. To secure a spot, parents are advised to begin their search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers in Urbanna and the surrounding areas (Gloucester, Mathews, Saluda). Get on multiple waitlists, even if they require a small fee. Maintain regular, polite contact with providers every few months to express continued interest. Be flexible with your start date if possible. Exploring less traditional options, like a nanny share with another local family, can also be a practical solution while on a waitlist.
What are the Virginia state licensing requirements for staff-to-child ratios and caregiver qualifications in Urbanna daycares?
Virginia state law sets strict staff-to-child ratios that all licensed providers in Urbanna must follow. For infants (0-16 months), the ratio is 1 caregiver to 4 children. For toddlers (16-24 months), it's 1:5. For 2-year-olds, it's 1:8, and for 3-year-olds, it's 1:10. For 4-year-olds and older, it's 1:12. In family day homes, the provider must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and complete specific training in CPR/First Aid, daily health observation, and safe sleep practices for infants. Lead teachers in centers must have a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or higher. All staff must pass background checks. Parents in Urbanna should verify a provider's license status and inspection reports through the Virginia Department of Education's online portal.
Are there any unique seasonal or community-based childcare considerations for families living in Urbanna?
Yes, Urbanna's unique character as a small waterfront town and home to the famous Urbanna Oyster Festival brings specific considerations. During the Oyster Festival (first weekend in November), regular childcare schedules may be disrupted due to school closures, traffic, and provider availability. Some local providers or churches may offer special "camp" days during this time. Furthermore, as a rural community with many families involved in water-based or seasonal work, some providers may offer more flexible or part-time schedules to accommodate irregular hours. During the summer, look for programs that might incorporate local activities like trips to the town marina or beach. It's also common for informal, community-based babysitting networks to operate, often organized through local churches or community centers, which can be a valuable resource for occasional care.