The Best Daycare Centers in Keyport, WA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Keyport. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Keyport
The Goddard School of Silverdale
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Silverdale offers a premier early childhood education program with their proprietary FLEX Learning Program that balances academic learning with creative play. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development. All lead teachers hold four-year degrees in education or related fields, and the facility features secure entry systems, daily cleanliness protocols, and age-appropriate learning environments. The school emphasizes parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, with a strong focus on preparing children for kindergarten readiness.
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Kitsap Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Kitsap Daycare & Preschool provides comprehensive childcare services with a play-based learning approach that incorporates elements of Montessori and Reggio Emilia philosophies. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, and social development. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs experienced early childhood educators with CPR/First Aid certification. The facility features secure outdoor play areas, modern learning materials, and a nutrition program that includes organic options. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment and strong community feel.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Silverdale
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Silverdale offers a research-based curriculum called The World at Their Fingers that integrates literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Their educators hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes dedicated learning centers, outdoor nature exploration areas, and a focus on environmental education. Bright Horizons is particularly noted for their emergent curriculum that follows children's interests and developmental readiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Keyport, WA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Keyport, WA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Keyport and the surrounding Kitsap County area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while toddler care is typically $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Preschool programs often cost between $800 and $1,200 monthly. These rates are influenced by the type of provider (in-home vs. center-based) and the specific program offerings. For financial assistance, Washington State offers the Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) subsidy for eligible families. Additionally, local organizations like the Kitsap Community Resources can provide guidance on subsidies and sliding-scale options. It's also worth checking with individual providers, as some may offer sibling discounts or have partnerships with local employers like the Naval Undersea Warfare Center.
How can I verify that a daycare or childcare provider in Keyport is properly licensed and what are Washington State's key regulations?
All licensed childcare providers in Washington must be listed in the state's online database. You can search for licensed homes and centers in Keyport specifically through the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) "Child Care Check" website. Key Washington State regulations include strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for toddlers), comprehensive background checks for all employees, and required health and safety training. Licensed providers must also meet specific standards for safe sleep practices, nutrition, and facility safety. Always ask to see a provider's current license and any recent inspection reports. Given Keyport's proximity to military installations, many providers are also familiar with and may participate in the Department of Defense's fee assistance programs, which have additional oversight.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Keyport, and when should I start looking for care?
Yes, waitlists are very common for both daycare centers and highly-regarded licensed family homes in Keyport and the broader Kitsap Peninsula, especially for infant care slots. Due to high demand and limited capacity, it is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their search during the second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool spots, you should start inquiring at least 6-9 months in advance. Many popular providers in the area have waitlists that are 12-18 months long. When touring facilities, always ask about their specific waitlist process, any associated fees, and how often they update families on their position. Being flexible with your start date can sometimes help secure a spot sooner.
What types of childcare options are most available in Keyport, and how do I find local in-home providers?
Keyport primarily offers licensed family home childcare and a smaller number of childcare centers. There are no large commercial daycare chains within the city itself; families often look to nearby Poulsbo, Silverdale, or Bremerton for more center-based options. To find licensed in-home providers in Keyport, use the DCYF "Child Care Check" search tool and filter by zip code (98345). Local community boards, such as at the Keyport Post Office or the Keyport Mercantile, and Facebook groups like "Kitsap County Childcare Connections" are invaluable for finding recommendations and hearing about openings. Many providers in this tight-knit community operate through word-of-mouth, so asking neighbors and other local parents is highly effective.
Are there any unique childcare resources or programs in Keyport that cater to military families or offer part-time or drop-in care?
As the home of the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC), Keyport has a significant population of military families. While there is no on-base childcare facility in Keyport itself, many local providers are experienced with the unique schedules and needs of military families. Some may offer part-time or flexible care arrangements, though these spots are limited. For drop-in or emergency care, options are scarce in Keyport specifically, but the nearby city of Silverdale has facilities that offer hourly care. Military families should explore the Child Care Aware® Military Program, which can help navigate fee assistance and locate approved providers. Additionally, the Fleet and Family Support Center at Naval Base Kitsap in Bangor is a key resource for childcare referrals and support.
Childcare Insights for Keyport
As a parent in Keyport, Washington, the search for quality, reliable childcare is often paired with the practical question of cost. Understanding daycare prices near you involves more than just comparing hourly rates; it's about knowing what factors influence those costs in our unique community and how to find the best value for your family. Keyport, with its close-knit feel and proximity to major naval and employment centers, presents a specific childcare landscape that blends in-home providers with nearby center-based options in surrounding areas like Poulsbo, Silverdale, and Bremerton.
In Keyport itself, you'll primarily find licensed family home daycares, which often provide a smaller, home-like setting. These can be a wonderful fit for many families, with prices typically ranging from $1,200 to $1,600 per month for full-time infant care. For toddlers and preschoolers, you might see monthly rates between $1,000 and $1,400. These in-home providers are a cornerstone of our local childcare network, offering flexibility and often a more personalized schedule. For center-based care, many Keyport parents look toward the larger neighboring towns. In Poulsbo and Silverdale, daycare centers for infants frequently range from $1,500 to over $1,900 per month, with prices generally decreasing as children get older and move into preschool programs. It's important to note that these figures are estimates, and prices are subject to change, so direct inquiry is always best.
Several local factors directly affect these costs. The high demand for childcare from military families associated with Naval Base Kitsap and working professionals commuting to Bremerton or Seattle creates a steady need for services. Additionally, Washington state's commitment to higher educator qualifications and lower child-to-staff ratios, while beneficial for quality and safety, also contributes to operational costs that are reflected in tuition. When evaluating a program's price, consider what is included. Some providers in the Kitsap County area include meals, snacks, and curriculum materials, while others may charge additional fees for these items or for early drop-off or late pick-up.
Your search for "daycare prices near me" in Keyport should begin with local resources. The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) website offers a searchable database of licensed providers, which is an essential tool. Don't underestimate the power of our local community networks; ask for recommendations at the Keyport Post Office, the community center, or on local social media groups. When you contact a provider, be prepared with specific questions. Ask about their enrollment deposit, their policy for holidays or sick days, and whether they offer any sibling discounts. Remember, the true value of childcare in Keyport isn't just in the monthly fee, but in the peace of mind that comes from finding a nurturing, safe, and stimulating environment where your child can thrive while you work or fulfill other obligations. Taking the time to visit, ask questions, and trust your instincts will help you navigate the costs to find the right fit for your family's needs and budget.