The Best Daycare Centers in Graham, WA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Graham. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Graham
Bright Horizons at South Hill
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at South Hill is a nationally accredited childcare center serving the Graham area with a comprehensive NAEYC-accredited curriculum. The center features highly qualified early childhood educators with bachelor's degrees and specialized training in developmental milestones. Their World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizes STEAM learning, literacy development, and social-emotional growth. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning environments for each age group. Parents consistently praise the center's communication through daily reports and the nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten readiness.
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Kindercare Learning Center - South Hill
KinderCare Education
Kindercare's South Hill location serves Graham families with a research-based curriculum focused on whole-child development. The center employs state-qualified teachers with ongoing professional development in early childhood education. Their curriculum includes phonics-based reading readiness, hands-on math and science activities, and character development programs. The facility features secure keypad entry, commercial-grade air purification systems, and developmentally appropriate learning centers. The center is noted for its inclusive environment and strong parent-teacher partnerships, with many families reporting excellent kindergarten preparation outcomes.
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Primrose School of South Hill
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of South Hill offers a premier early education experience for Graham-area families with their Balanced Learning approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The center features degreed early childhood teachers and maintains low student-teacher ratios. Their exclusive curriculum includes character development programs, literacy-rich environments, and hands-on learning experiences. The state-of-the-art facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate outdoor learning environments, and dedicated art and music studios. Parents consistently highlight the school's exceptional communication, nutritious meal program, and the visible developmental progress children make in their care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Graham, WA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool for an infant or toddler in Graham, WA?
In Graham, the cost of full-time childcare varies significantly by age and program type. For infants (under 12 months), you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers (1-3 years), monthly costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,600. Home-based family childcare providers in the Graham area often charge slightly less, ranging from $1,000 to $1,500 per month for full-time care. These rates are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that costs in Pierce County, including Graham, have been rising, and many facilities require a non-refundable registration fee. We recommend contacting providers directly for the most current rates and inquiring about any potential sibling discounts.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Graham, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for licensed daycare centers, especially for infants, in Graham and the surrounding Pierce County area can be quite long, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for highly sought-after providers. This is due to high demand and limited infant slots mandated by Washington State's strict staff-to-child ratios. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy. Get on multiple waitlists, even if a center isn't your top choice, as plans can change. Be proactive—call every 4-6 weeks to express continued interest and check your status. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family home providers in Graham, Spanaway, and Frederickson, as they may have shorter wait times and offer a more home-like environment.
What specific Washington State licensing requirements should I verify when touring a daycare in Graham?
Every licensed childcare provider in Graham must comply with Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) regulations. When touring, you should verify: 1) The provider's license is current and posted publicly (you can also check their compliance history online via the DCYF "Child Care Check" tool). 2) Staff-to-child ratios: For infants (0-12 months), it's 1:4; for toddlers (12-29 months), it's 1:7. 3) That all staff have passed background checks and have required training in Early Childhood Education (ECE), CPR, First Aid, and Safe Sleep practices for infants. 4) The facility has passed health, safety, and fire inspections. Don't hesitate to ask the director for their most recent licensing inspection report, which they are required to provide.
Are there any local resources or programs in Graham that help parents find and pay for childcare?
Yes, there are several key local resources. The primary hub for childcare search and referral in Pierce County is **Child Care Resources (CCR)**, which serves Graham families. They offer a free searchable database of licensed providers. For financial assistance, Washington State's **Working Connections Child Care (WCCC)** subsidy program helps eligible families pay for care. You apply through the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). Additionally, the **Graham/South Hill Family Center** can be a valuable local contact for information on preschool programs and community support. For military families stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, which is nearby, specific childcare and subsidy options are also available through military programs.
What are the options for drop-in or part-time childcare in Graham for occasional needs?
Consistent drop-in or hourly childcare is limited among licensed centers in Graham, as most prioritize full-time enrollments. However, some licensed family home providers may offer part-time slots or occasional care, so it's worth inquiring directly. For more flexible, occasional needs, your best bets are: 1) **Registered and licensed family friends/neighbors** who provide care in their home (they have simpler DCYF requirements). 2) Utilizing reputable babysitting networks or apps, vetting sitters carefully. 3) Exploring drop-in childcare centers in larger neighboring cities like Puyallup or Tacoma, such as certain gyms or recreational facilities that offer parent-hour care (always check their licensing status). Planning ahead and building a relationship with a local provider for occasional care is highly recommended in the Graham area.