The Best Daycare Centers in Kenmore, WA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Kenmore. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Kenmore
The Goddard School of Bothell
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Bothell serves the Kenmore community with a premier early childhood education program featuring the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). Their play-based curriculum emphasizes STEAM learning, language development, and social-emotional growth. Certified teachers with early childhood degrees implement age-appropriate lesson plans in modern, secure classrooms. The facility features secure entry systems, comprehensive safety protocols, and spacious outdoor play areas. Parent communication includes daily activity reports and regular developmental updates. Their balanced approach combines structured learning with creative exploration.
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Bright Horizons at Bothell
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Bothell provides high-quality childcare serving Kenmore families with their World at Their Fingertips® curriculum. The program emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts through hands-on learning experiences. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, with ongoing professional development. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and features secure facilities with coded entry systems, comprehensive health and safety protocols, and nutritionally balanced meals. Their emergent curriculum adapts to children's interests while ensuring kindergarten readiness.
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KinderCare at Canyon Park
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Canyon Park has served Kenmore and Bothell families for two decades with their comprehensive early childhood program. Their research-based curriculum focuses on academic, social, and emotional development through structured learning centers and play-based activities. The center features dedicated classrooms for each age group, secure entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different developmental stages. Teachers receive ongoing training in early childhood development and safety protocols. The program includes phonics-based reading readiness, early math concepts, and Spanish language exposure, with regular parent-teacher conferences and progress reports.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Kenmore, WA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Kenmore, WA?
In Kenmore, the cost of full-time childcare varies significantly based on the child's age and the type of program. For infants and toddlers, you can expect to pay between $1,800 to $2,400 per month at licensed centers. Preschool programs for children ages 3-5 are generally less expensive, ranging from $1,200 to $1,800 per month. In-home family childcare providers often offer slightly lower rates, typically between $1,000 to $1,600 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that Washington State offers financial assistance programs like the Working Connections Child Care subsidy, which eligible Kenmore families can apply for to help offset these expenses.
How long are waitlists for quality daycare centers in Kenmore, and how can I secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-rated daycare centers and preschools in Kenmore can be lengthy, especially for infant care. It's not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. To improve your chances, we recommend starting your search during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $50-$100). Stay proactive by checking in every few months to confirm your spot. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family home providers in Kenmore and nearby areas like Bothell or Lake Forest Park, as they may have shorter wait times and offer more personalized care.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Kenmore, and how can I verify a provider's license?
All childcare providers in Kenmore must be licensed by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). Licensing requirements include background checks for all staff, health and safety training (including CPR/First Aid), ongoing professional development, and adherence to strict ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for preschoolers). Facilities are also subject to regular inspections. You can easily verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the "Child Care Check" tool on the DCYF website. We strongly recommend using this free resource before enrolling your child to ensure the provider is in good standing.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in Kenmore?
Yes, Kenmore's proximity to the Sammamish River, Saint Edward State Park, and numerous local parks makes it an ideal location for nature-based programs. Several local providers incorporate "outdoor classroom" philosophies, with regular outdoor play and exploration regardless of weather. Some preschools may organize walks to nearby parks like Rhododendron Park or the Kenmore Waterfront. While there isn't a dedicated forest school within city limits, several programs in the greater Northshore area (which includes Kenmore) emphasize outdoor learning. When touring facilities, ask about their daily outdoor time policy and how they utilize Kenmore's natural resources. Dressing children in weather-appropriate gear is a standard expectation for these programs.
What childcare resources and referral services are available specifically for Kenmore parents?
Kenmore parents have excellent local support through the **Child Care Resources (CCR)** agency, which serves King County. CCR offers a free personalized referral service to help you find licensed childcare that matches your needs in terms of location, schedule, and philosophy. They also provide guidance on understanding quality indicators and financial assistance options. Additionally, you can connect with other local parents through the City of Kenmore's community programs or online groups like the "Kenmore, WA Moms" Facebook page for personal recommendations. For school-age care, the Northshore School District offers before and after-school programs at many elementary schools, which is a crucial resource for families with older children.
Nearby Cities
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