The Best Daycare Centers in Lynnwood, WA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lynnwood. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lynnwood
Bright Horizons at Lynnwood
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Lynnwood offers a comprehensive early education curriculum with a strong focus on school readiness and social-emotional development. The center features state-of-the-art classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers, dedicated outdoor play spaces, and secure entry systems. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and creative arts through hands-on learning experiences. Parents appreciate the regular communication through the Bright Horizons mobile app, which includes daily reports, photos, and developmental updates.
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KinderCare at Lynnwood
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Lynnwood provides a structured educational environment with balanced learning approaches that combine play-based and academic preparation. The center offers the Early Foundations curriculum, which focuses on literacy, math, science, and social studies while developing critical thinking skills. Safety features include secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive staff training. The teaching staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios and many hold advanced degrees in early childhood education. The center also provides nutritious meals and snacks through their cooking program and maintains strong parent partnerships through regular conferences and communication.
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Kiddie Academy of Edmonds
Kiddie Academy Domestic Franchising
Located just minutes from Lynnwood, Kiddie Academy of Edmonds offers the Life Essentials curriculum that combines academic learning with character development and health-focused activities. The center features modern classrooms with interactive technology, spacious outdoor playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment, and dedicated art and music spaces. All teachers receive extensive training in child development and emergency procedures, with many holding CPR and first aid certifications. The academy emphasizes STEM education, literacy development, and social skills through project-based learning. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, cleanliness, and the genuine care shown by staff toward each child's individual needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lynnwood, WA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Lynnwood, WA, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Lynnwood, the cost of full-time daycare or preschool varies significantly based on the child's age, the type of facility, and the program's offerings. For infants and toddlers, you can expect to pay between $1,600 to $2,200 per month. For preschool-aged children (3-5 years), costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,800 per month. These rates are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum (e.g., Montessori, play-based), and included amenities (meals, enrichment activities). For financial assistance, Washington State offers the Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) subsidy for eligible families. Additionally, many local centers offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with the **Child Care Aware of Washington** for resources and the City of Lynnwood's community services department for any local grant or scholarship programs for residents.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Lynnwood, and what can I do to secure a spot for my infant?
Waitlists for licensed daycare centers, especially for infants (under 12 months), in Lynnwood can be quite long, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for highly sought-after facilities. This is due to strict state-mandated staff-to-infant ratios (1:4) limiting available spots. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Get on multiple waitlists, even at centers that are not your top choice, as a backup. Be proactive: follow up with centers every 2-3 months to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family home daycares in surrounding neighborhoods like Edmonds or Mountlake Terrace, which may have shorter waitlists and offer a more home-like environment.
What are the key differences between a licensed childcare center and a licensed family home daycare in Lynnwood, and how do I verify their licensing?
In Lynnwood, licensed childcare centers are typically larger facilities in commercial or dedicated buildings, caring for more children with multiple staff members. They often have structured curricula, multiple classrooms, and set operating hours. Licensed family home daycares operate out of the provider's residence and are licensed for a smaller group (up to 12 children, including the provider's own). They often offer mixed-age groups, a more flexible home environment, and potentially more personalized care. Both must meet Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) standards for safety, staff training, and programming. To verify licensing and check for any compliance history, use the free and public **DCYF Child Care Check** tool online. You can search by provider name, location, or license number to view inspection reports, licensing status, and any noted violations.
Are there specific daycare or preschool programs in Lynnwood that cater to children with special needs or offer inclusive classrooms?
Yes, Lynnwood has several daycare centers and preschools that offer inclusive environments or specialized support for children with developmental delays or disabilities. Many licensed centers follow inclusive practices. For more structured support, look for programs that explicitly state they have staff trained in special education or that partner with the **Snohomish County Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT)** program. The **Lynnwood Public Schools** district also operates developmental preschools for eligible children ages 3-5, which are often integrated with typically developing peers. It's crucial to contact centers directly, ask about their experience, staff training (like DCYF-required Inclusion Training), and their process for creating Individualized Care Plans. Organizations like **Arc of Snohomish County** can also provide local referrals and resources for inclusive childcare.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a potential daycare in Lynnwood, and are there any local red flags specific to this area?
During an in-person tour in Lynnwood, observe both the environment and interactions. Look for: clean and safe facilities with secure entrances; age-appropriate, engaging toys and materials; a posted license and emergency plans; and cheerful, engaged children. Crucially, watch how staff interact with children—they should be responsive and attentive. Ask about staff turnover, as high turnover can disrupt care. Local red flags include: providers being hesitant to show you their DCYF licensing file (which they are required to have on-site); a lack of outdoor play space or a plan for outdoor time (given our often rainy climate, ask about their wet-weather policy); and centers located near major, high-traffic roads like I-5 or 196th St SW without robust fencing and safety protocols for drop-off/pick-up. Always trust your instincts about the overall feeling of warmth and professionalism.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Lynnwood: