The Best Daycare Centers in Raymond, WA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Raymond. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Raymond
The Goddard School of Aberdeen
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Aberdeen offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All lead teachers hold four-year degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains low student-teacher ratios. The school serves families throughout Grays Harbor County, including Raymond, with extended hours and year-round programming.
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Little People's Place
Independent
Little People's Place is a highly-regarded independent childcare center serving Grays Harbor County families, including those commuting from Raymond. The center implements a developmental approach with Creative Curriculum foundations, focusing on individualized learning plans and social-emotional development. Their program includes structured learning centers, literacy-rich environments, and hands-on activities that promote cognitive and physical development. The facility features secure access controls, modern safety equipment, and nutritionally balanced meal programs. Staff members maintain current CPR/First Aid certifications and participate in ongoing professional development training.
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Aberdeen Child Development Center
Independent
Aberdeen Child Development Center provides comprehensive early childhood education services to families throughout Grays Harbor County, including Raymond residents. The center employs a play-based learning approach integrated with academic preparation activities, focusing on kindergarten readiness skills. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy development, mathematical thinking, and social skills through structured activities and free play. The facility maintains enhanced safety protocols including secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and participate in continuous professional development to stay current with best practices in early childhood education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Raymond, WA
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Raymond, WA, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Raymond, all childcare centers and family home providers must be licensed by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios. For centers, the ratio for toddlers (age 2) is 1:7, for example. You can verify any provider's license status, inspection reports, and any compliance history for free using the DCYF "Child Care Check" tool online. It's highly recommended to check this before enrolling, as it provides transparency about the provider's regulatory standing. You can also contact the local DCYF licensing office serving Pacific County for specific questions.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Raymond, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Raymond and the surrounding Pacific County area, full-time daycare for an infant can average between $800 to $1,100 per month, while toddler care may range from $700 to $950 per month. Costs can vary based on the type of provider (center vs. in-home) and the specific services offered. For financial assistance, Washington State offers the Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) subsidy for eligible families based on income and activity requirements (like work or school). Additionally, the Pacific County Community Services Department may have information on local resources or sliding scale options. It's crucial to ask providers directly about their rates and any available discounts or sibling rates.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or popular in-home providers in Raymond, and when should I start looking?
Due to limited childcare options in a smaller community like Raymond, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It's not uncommon for popular centers or licensed family homes to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend starting your search during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before you need care. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot (if any), and how often they update families on their position. Exploring providers in nearby towns like South Bend or even longer commutes may be necessary if local waitlists are prohibitive.
Are there any unique childcare options in Raymond that cater to families with parents working in local industries like forestry or healthcare with non-standard hours?
Finding childcare for evening, night, or weekend shifts is a common challenge in Raymond. While standard daycare hours are typically 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, options for non-standard hours are limited. Some licensed family home providers may offer more flexible or extended hours by arrangement. Your best bet is to explicitly ask about shift care availability when you call providers. Additionally, exploring licensed "Family, Friend, and Neighbor" caregivers or seeking a private nanny share with other local families in similar industries could be a viable alternative. Networking through local Facebook groups for Raymond parents or with your employer (especially at Willapa Harbor Hospital) can sometimes yield leads.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare in Raymond, and are there any local resources to help with the selection process?
During a tour, observe the cleanliness, safety (covered outlets, secure gates), and how staff interact with children—are they engaged and responsive? Ask about their curriculum, outdoor play schedule (considering Raymond's rainy climate), emergency procedures, and staff turnover. Specifically for Raymond, inquire about their plan for community events (like the Willapa Harbor Festival) that might affect schedules or closures. For selection help, utilize the free referral service through "Child Care Aware of Washington." Their specialists can provide a list of licensed providers in the 98577 area code and offer guidance on choosing quality care. The Raymond School District may also have resources for preschool-aged children.