The Best Daycare Centers in Kirkland, WA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Kirkland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Kirkland
Bright Horizons at Kirkland Urban
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Kirkland Urban offers a comprehensive early education curriculum with developmentally appropriate programs for children from infancy through preschool. The center features state-of-the-art facilities with dedicated classrooms for each age group, outdoor play spaces, and advanced security systems. Their World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, STEM activities, and social-emotional development. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent communication through the Bright Horizons mobile app, and flexible scheduling options to accommodate working families.
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Little Sunshine's Playhouse and Preschool of Redmond
Little Sunshine's Enterprises
Little Sunshine's Playhouse serves the Kirkland area with their proprietary Creatively Shine™ curriculum that blends academic preparation with creative expression. The center features Reggio Emilia-inspired classrooms, large outdoor playgrounds, and specialized learning centers. Their program includes Spanish language instruction, music and movement classes, and character development programs. The facility maintains rigorous safety protocols including secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular health screenings. Teachers are trained in early childhood development and maintain ongoing professional development. The center offers webcam access for parents and detailed daily reports on children's activities and development.
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The Goddard School of Kirkland
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Kirkland provides a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), which balances academic readiness with social development. The school features purpose-built classrooms, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and enrichment programs including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure. Their highly qualified teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in continuous professional development. The center emphasizes safety with secure entry systems, comprehensive emergency preparedness plans, and strict health and hygiene protocols. Parent engagement is encouraged through regular conferences, classroom observations, and digital daily reports tracking children's progress and activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Kirkland, WA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Kirkland, WA?
In Kirkland, the cost of full-time daycare is among the highest in Washington State, reflecting the city's high cost of living. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay an average of $2,000 to $2,500 per month at a licensed center. For a toddler (18 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $1,800 to $2,200 per month. Home-based family childcare is often slightly less expensive, averaging $1,600 to $2,000 monthly. These rates are for standard operating hours (e.g., 7 AM to 6 PM). It's important to note that many facilities in Kirkland have annual registration or supply fees, and rates can be higher for centers with specialized curricula or extended hours. We recommend contacting providers directly for the most current pricing.
How long are the typical waitlists for high-quality daycare centers in Kirkland, and how can I improve my chances of securing a spot?
Waitlists for reputable daycare centers and preschools in Kirkland can be notoriously long, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant care. High-demand areas like the Totem Lake, Moss Bay, or downtown neighborhoods may have even longer waits. To improve your chances: 1) **Start early:** Begin your search and get on lists during pregnancy or as soon as you know you'll need care. 2) **Cast a wide net:** Apply to multiple centers, including both corporate chains and smaller, local providers. 3) **Consider family childcare homes:** They often have shorter waitlists and can provide excellent care. 4) **Stay in touch:** Check in with centers every few months to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. 5) **Be flexible:** You may have better luck with centers slightly outside your immediate neighborhood or those with less conventional hours.
What are the key differences between Washington State licensed childcare centers and licensed family homes in Kirkland?
Both are regulated by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF), but they operate differently. **Licensed Centers** are facilities dedicated solely to childcare, often in commercial buildings. They typically have multiple classrooms, more staff, and structured curricula. They must meet strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). **Licensed Family Homes** operate out of the provider's residence and are limited to 12 children maximum, including the provider's own. They often offer a more home-like, mixed-age environment and can be more flexible with hours. In Kirkland, both options undergo rigorous background checks, health and safety inspections, and require provider training. The choice often comes down to personal preference for environment, group size, and schedule flexibility.
Are there any local Kirkland programs or resources to help parents afford childcare?
Yes, there are several resources. The primary program is the **Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) subsidy**, which provides financial assistance to eligible families based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the Washington Connection portal. Locally, the **City of Kirkland's Human Services Commission** may offer limited support or referrals through community grants. Additionally, many employers in the Kirkland tech corridor (like Google, Microsoft, and others) offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or even direct childcare subsidies or backup care benefits. It's also worth asking individual daycare providers if they offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Kirkland?
When touring a daycare in Kirkland, go beyond the brochure. Key things to observe: 1) **Safety & Cleanliness:** Check for secure entrances, clean play and diaper-changing areas, and that outlets are covered. Ask about their sick policy and cleaning protocols. 2) **Staff Interaction:** Watch how caregivers engage with children—are they on the floor playing, responding warmly, and using positive language? Low staff turnover is a good sign. 3) **Outdoor Space:** Given Kirkland's beautiful setting, assess their outdoor play area. Is it safe, shaded, and do children get daily outdoor time (weather permitting)? 4) **Curriculum & Routine:** Ask for a daily schedule. Look for a balance of structured activities, free play, and rest. 5) **Ask specific questions:** Inquire about their licensing status (you can verify this on the DCYF website), staff qualifications, emergency procedures for events like earthquakes, and their philosophy on discipline and communication with parents (many use apps like Brightwheel or Tadpoles). Trust your instincts about the overall vibe and happiness of the children.