We provide local listings of preschools and childcare centers in Maine. Continue below to search the list of local childcare centers in Maine. We have also listed the top cities in Maine on the right side of the page.

A Parent's Guide to Childcare and Preschools in Maine

Finding the right childcare or preschool for your child can be a daunting task, but the state of Maine provides a variety of options to help you navigate the process. This guide will walk you through the different types of facilities, state-subsidized options, as well as the application process of these offerings.

Types of Childcare Facilities

In Maine, parents can choose from numerous childcare options based on their needs and their child's. They include: 1.

Childcare Centers:

These are typically larger facilities that care for more children at a time. 2.

Family Childcare:

This is a smaller setup, usually carried out in a person’s home, for up to 12 children. 3.

Preschool Programs:

Suitable for kids aged three and up. 4.

School-Age Programs:

These are for older kids who need care before and after school. 5.

Nursery Schools:

These offer part-time programs for children under kindergarten age.

Maine's State-Subsidized Childcare Options

The State of Maine provides subsidies to help families with the cost of childcare through the Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP). This includes the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) which provides financial assistance to low-income families who need childcare due to work, work-related training and/or attending school.

Eligibility

Your family might be eligible for the CCSP if you are working, searching for work, in a training program, or attending school. Eligibility is also income-based: the lower the income, the higher the amount of assistance provided.

Applying for Childcare Subsidies

To apply for the Childcare Subsidy Program you will need to contact your local Department of Health and Human Services DHHS office and complete an application form. During application, you will need to provide details relating to your income, and situation (such as work, school, or training activity), type of child care needed, and information about the child care provider.

Finding a Quality Program

It typically helps to visit multiple providers to find a program that is a good fit for your child and schedule. Maine has a Quality for ME program, a four-step quality rating and improvement system that recognizes and supports increasing levels of quality in early care and education programs.

General Considerations

As part of your search, consider aspects such as the location of the facility, staff experience and qualifications, facility accreditation, teaching methodology, and health and safety. Parent references and reviews can also provide important insights. This process might seem overwhelming, but taking the time to consider these factors and make an informed decision can greatly benefit your child's growth and development. Also remember that the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has a variety of resources available to help guide you through this process.