Children at daycare

48 Child Daycare & Preschools in Gainesville, Florida

Browse all 48 child daycare & preschools in Gainesville, Florida. Compare options and find the right childcare for your family.

Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in Gainesville

Ranked using a weighted score that combines Google rating with the number of parent reviews — daycares with more reviews rank higher than those with a high rating but few reviews. Last updated: March 2026.

  1. 1
    The Kidz House
    4.72 score
    4.9(20)

    4232 Nw 6th St, Bldg 2, Gainesville, FL · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 37 children

    The Kidz House is a family-owned bilingual daycare in Gainesville that receives consistently high praise from parents. Parents highlight the caring, attentive staff, clean facilities, structured activities, and bilingual education as key strengths. Multiple families report their children were happy, well-adjusted, and sad to leave when transitioning to kindergarten or relocating.

    caring and attentive staffbilingual education (English and Spanish)clean facilities
  2. 2

    1823 Nw 5th Ave, Gainesville, FL · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 115 children

    Open Arms Child Development Center in Gainesville receives consistently high praise from parents who describe the staff as caring, dedicated, and genuinely invested in each child's development and well-being. Parents appreciate the strong communication through the ProCare app, safe and nurturing environment, educational activities, and the family-like atmosphere. Multiple parents report long-term enrollment with their children thriving and excited to attend.

    Caring and dedicated staff with low turnoverexcellent communication with parents via ProCare app and weekly newsletterssafe and clean environmentstrong focus on child development and learning
  3. 3

    301 N Main St, Gainesville, FL · Church Daycare · Capacity: 148 children

    Holy Trinity Episcopal School receives universal praise from parents across all age groups (infants through VPK). Parents consistently highlight the caring, dedicated staff, strong educational foundation, and safe, nurturing environment that makes children thrive.

    Caring and devoted staffDirector Jason's attentiveness to familieshome-like classroom environmentsstrong VPK program with good kindergarten preparation
  4. 4

    4840 Nw 23rd Ave, Gainesville, FL · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 40 children

    Imagine Learning Center in Gainesville receives universal praise from parents for its play-based, child-centered curriculum and warm, caring staff. Parents consistently report their children are excited to attend, feel safe and happy, and develop strong foundations for learning. The facility is described as clean, well-supervised, and thoughtfully designed for young children.

    play-based learning approachchild-centered curriculumwarm and caring teacherssafe and
  5. 5

    1121 Nw 6th St, Gainesville, FL · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 62 children

    Parents consistently praise Persimmon Early Learning Academy for its nurturing, community-focused environment and highly engaged teachers. The school receives universal 5-star ratings, with particular recognition for VPK teacher Mr. Bob's project-based learning approach and the strong bonds formed between families. Parents report their children are academically prepared, emotionally supported, and genuinely excited to attend school.

    caring and attentive teachersstr
  6. 6

    2411 Nw 41st St, Gainesville, FL · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 78 children

    Parents consistently praise Education Station and Preschool for exceptional care, personalized attention, and commitment to child development. Staff members are described as caring, family-oriented, and dedicated to helping each child succeed academically and socially. Multiple reviewers highlight the smooth transition to kindergarten and strong emotional bonds formed between staff and children.

    Excellent staffpersonalized learning approachhealthy meals and snacksstrong manners instruction
  7. 7

    419 Ne 1st St, Gainesville, FL · Church Daycare · Capacity: 152 children

    First United Methodist Preschool receives strong praise from parents and community members. The facility is highlighted for its inclusive, welcoming environment, quality educational programming, and community involvement. Parents appreciate the leadership, music program, and family-oriented activities.

    Inclusive and welcoming environmentnon-judgmental communityquality preschool program (FUMPers and VPK)strong pastoral leadership
  8. 8
    The Child'S Garden
    4.4 score
    4.5(20)

    3536 Nw 8th Ave, Gainesville, FL · Church Daycare · Capacity: 30 children

    Parents consistently praise The Child's Garden for its caring staff, strong communication through the Brightwheel app, and engaging educational activities. The facility is described as clean, organized, and well-managed by director Ms. Lulu, with small class sizes and abundant outdoor play time. Multiple families report significant improvements in their children's development and happiness since enrolling.

    Compassionate and attentive staffexcellent communication with parentsthoughtful curriculumengaging activities
  9. 9

    3111 Nw 31st Ave, Gainesville, FL · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 45 children

    Flowers Montessori School receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with parents praising its Montessori approach, academic rigor, and emphasis on social-emotional development. Parents consistently highlight the peaceful environment, caring staff, and holistic education that prepares children well for kindergarten and beyond. One parent reported poor communication.

    Academic preparation for kindergartensocial-emotional learningpeaceful and organized environment
  10. 10

    2022 Sw 122nd St, Gainesville, FL · Church Daycare · Capacity: 170 children

    The Academy Preschool receives unanimous 5-star ratings from parents who praise the caring staff, safe environment, and strong educational programs. Parents consistently highlight excellent communication through apps and updates, as well as the facility's Christian values and preparation for kindergarten.

    Loving and compassionate staffsmall class sizeshigh safety standardsexcellent communication via app with photos/videos

Top Rated

Highest rated daycares in Gainesville based on parent reviews

The Kidz House

4.9(20)

4232 Nw 6th St, Bldg 2, Gainesville, FL

The Kidz House is a family-owned bilingual daycare in Gainesville that receives consistently high praise from parents. Parents highlight the caring, attentive staff, clean facilities, structured activities, and bilingual education as key strengths. Multiple families report their children were happy, well-adjusted, and sad to leave when transitioning to kindergarten or relocating.

caring and attentive staffbilingual education (English and Spanish)clean facilities

Open Arms Child Development Center

4.8(20)

1823 Nw 5th Ave, Gainesville, FL

Open Arms Child Development Center in Gainesville receives consistently high praise from parents who describe the staff as caring, dedicated, and genuinely invested in each child's development and well-being. Parents appreciate the strong communication through the ProCare app, safe and nurturing environment, educational activities, and the family-like atmosphere. Multiple parents report long-term enrollment with their children thriving and excited to attend.

Caring and dedicated staff with low turnoverexcellent communication with parents via ProCare app and weekly newsletterssafe and clean environment

Imagine Learning Center

5(7)

4840 Nw 23rd Ave, Gainesville, FL

Imagine Learning Center in Gainesville receives universal praise from parents for its play-based, child-centered curriculum and warm, caring staff. Parents consistently report their children are excited to attend, feel safe and happy, and develop strong foundations for learning. The facility is described as clean, well-supervised, and thoughtfully designed for young children.

play-based learning approachchild-centered curriculumwarm and caring teachers

Persimmon Early Learning Academy, LLC

4.9(9)

1121 Nw 6th St, Gainesville, FL

Parents consistently praise Persimmon Early Learning Academy for its nurturing, community-focused environment and highly engaged teachers. The school receives universal 5-star ratings, with particular recognition for VPK teacher Mr. Bob's project-based learning approach and the strong bonds formed between families. Parents report their children are academically prepared, emotionally supported, and genuinely excited to attend school.

caring and attentive teachersstr

Education Station And Preschool

5(6)

2411 Nw 41st St, Gainesville, FL

Parents consistently praise Education Station and Preschool for exceptional care, personalized attention, and commitment to child development. Staff members are described as caring, family-oriented, and dedicated to helping each child succeed academically and socially. Multiple reviewers highlight the smooth transition to kindergarten and strong emotional bonds formed between staff and children.

Excellent staffpersonalized learning approachhealthy meals and snacks

Lil Scholars Learning Academy INC

5(4)

3520 Nw 13th St, Gainesville, FL

Map

Child Daycare & Preschools in Gainesville, Florida

There are 48 child daycare & preschools in Gainesville, Florida, making up 76% of the 63 total childcare facilities in the city. Below you'll find a complete directory to help you compare and choose the right daycare for your child.

When choosing a daycare in Gainesville, consider visiting facilities in person, checking their licensing status, and asking about staff-to-child ratios, daily routines, and safety policies.

All Child Daycare & Preschools in Gainesville

Showing 48 results

Lil Scholars Learning Academy INC
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
3520 Nw 13th St, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 519-5552
Angel'S Christian Academy LLC
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1907 Se Hawthorne Rd, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 374-8521
Baby Gator Child Development And Research @ Uf @ Diamond Village
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1281 Newell Dr, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 273-8000
Granny D'S Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1300 Nw 6th St, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 872-5852
Imagine Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Imagine Learning Center in Gainesville receives universal praise from parents for its play-based, child-centered curriculum and warm, caring staff. Parents consistently report their children are excited to attend, feel safe and happy, and develop strong foundations for learning. The facility is described as clean, well-supervised, and thoughtfully designed for young children.

play-based learning approachchild-centered curriculumwarm and caring teachers
Address
4840 Nw 23rd Ave, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 371-5450
Intelligent Kidz Academy
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
901 Se 1st Ave, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 378-9738
Morning Meadow Preschool INC
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
813 Nw 6th St, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 339-1417
Pinewood School
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1704 Ne 9th St, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 372-3343
The Sunshine House
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
2530 Nw 39th Ave, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 376-4765
Yes I Can Kids Academy INC
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1734 Se Hawthorne Rd, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 371-5554
A Child'S Delight At Eden Park
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1330 Ne 39th Ave, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 672-6249
A World Of Angels Gainesville
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1119 Nw 42nd Ave, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 381-0080
Education Station And Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Parents consistently praise Education Station and Preschool for exceptional care, personalized attention, and commitment to child development. Staff members are described as caring, family-oriented, and dedicated to helping each child succeed academically and socially. Multiple reviewers highlight the smooth transition to kindergarten and strong emotional bonds formed between staff and children.

Excellent staffpersonalized learning approachhealthy meals and snacks
Address
2411 Nw 41st St, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 335-0026
The Kidz House
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.9

The Kidz House is a family-owned bilingual daycare in Gainesville that receives consistently high praise from parents. Parents highlight the caring, attentive staff, clean facilities, structured activities, and bilingual education as key strengths. Multiple families report their children were happy, well-adjusted, and sad to leave when transitioning to kindergarten or relocating.

caring and attentive staffbilingual education (English and Spanish)clean facilities
Address
4232 Nw 6th St, Bldg 2, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 371-6269
Persimmon Early Learning Academy, LLC
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.9

Parents consistently praise Persimmon Early Learning Academy for its nurturing, community-focused environment and highly engaged teachers. The school receives universal 5-star ratings, with particular recognition for VPK teacher Mr. Bob's project-based learning approach and the strong bonds formed between families. Parents report their children are academically prepared, emotionally supported, and genuinely excited to attend school.

caring and attentive teachersstr
Address
1121 Nw 6th St, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 505-0144
Baby Gator Child Development & Research Center @ Uf @ Lake Alice
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8
Address
793 Corry Cir, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 392-2330
Open Arms Child Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Open Arms Child Development Center in Gainesville receives consistently high praise from parents who describe the staff as caring, dedicated, and genuinely invested in each child's development and well-being. Parents appreciate the strong communication through the ProCare app, safe and nurturing environment, educational activities, and the family-like atmosphere. Multiple parents report long-term enrollment with their children thriving and excited to attend.

Caring and dedicated staff with low turnoverexcellent communication with parents via ProCare app and weekly newsletterssafe and clean environment
Address
1823 Nw 5th Ave, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 373-5856
Flowers Montessori School INC
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Flowers Montessori School receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with parents praising its Montessori approach, academic rigor, and emphasis on social-emotional development. Parents consistently highlight the peaceful environment, caring staff, and holistic education that prepares children well for kindergarten and beyond. One parent reported poor communication.

Academic preparation for kindergartensocial-emotional learningpeaceful and organized environment
Address
3111 Nw 31st Ave, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 376-4700
Love N Care Christian Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Love n Care Christian Learning Center receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with parents praising the professional and caring staff who provide a warm, family-like environment. Parents report their children thrive academically and emotionally at the facility, with specific staff members frequently mentioned as exceptional caregivers. One negative review provided no details.

Professional and caring staffwarm family environmentclean and safe facility
Address
1520 Nw 34th St, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 378-5190
Santa Fe Little School
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6
Address
3000 Nw 83rd St, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 395-5597
Kidworks Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5

Parents consistently praise KidWorks Preschool for its attentive, caring staff and accessible management. The center is highlighted for individualized child development monitoring, transparent communication through webcams and apps, and strong academic preparation. All ten reviews gave 5-star ratings, with parents noting significant improvements in their children's social, emotional, and academic growth.

Webcams and real-time monitoring via appconstant parent-teach
Address
3003 Nw 53rd Ave, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 335-1335
A Child'S Place INC
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.4

Parents consistently praise A Child's Place Inc for its caring, well-trained staff and safe, clean environment where children are excited to attend. Reviews highlight the center's focus on learning, fun activities, and accommodating approach to family needs. One parent commended staff for their exceptional emergency response during a medical incident.

Caring and friendly staffclean facilitysafe environment
Address
6200 Sw Archer Rd, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 375-8900
Abacus Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.4

Abacus Learning Center receives consistently high praise from parents, with all recent reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents highlight the quality of staff, strong curriculum, and visible developmental progress in their children, including academic readiness and social-emotional growth.

High-quality and caring teachersstrong early learning curriculumexcellent communication with parents
Address
5205 Sw 91st Dr, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 376-1492
Just A Blessing Early Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3

Just a Blessing Early Learning Center in Gainesville receives mostly positive feedback from parents, with particular praise for caring staff members like Ms. Bree, Ms. Liz, and Mr. Zack. Parents highlight the facility's organization, quality teaching, and child development support, though some have concerns about scheduling limitations and billing practices.

Caring and loving staffreliable and trustworthy teacherswell-organized curriculum including meals and potty training
Address
7510 Nw 4th Blvd, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 331-3075
A&M 4 Kids INC
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3
Address
2207 Nw 10th St, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 271-0301
Cuddly Kids Academy
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3

Parents consistently praise Cuddly Kids Academy for its caring, professional staff and effective educational programs. Children show enthusiasm for attending and demonstrate significant developmental progress across language, academics, and social skills. The facility is noted for cleanliness, communication with parents, and accommodating hours.

Enthusiastic staffdevelopmental progress (language and academics)clean facility
Address
1023 Se 4th Ave, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 336-3200
My School Child Care Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3

My School Child Care Center in Gainesville receives consistently high praise from parents for its caring, nurturing environment where children thrive academically and emotionally. Parents consistently highlight the dedicated staff, low turnover, strong community feel, and the director Ms. Renee's exceptional leadership. The center is described as feeling like family, with teachers who genuinely love children and support their development.

Compassionate and caring sta
Address
2720 Sw 2nd Ave, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 373-1328
Step By Step Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3

Step by Step Learning Center receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents, with most praising the caring staff, safe environment, child development, and reasonable pricing. Parents consistently describe feeling confident leaving their children in the center's care. One negative review raised concerns about billing practices and alleged broken payment arrangements.

attentive and caring teacherssafe and secure environmentage-appropriate playgrounds
Address
2211 Nw 40th Ter, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 373-6988
Baby Gator Child Development And Research Center At The University Of Florida At Newell Drive
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2
Address
1244 Newell Dr, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 273-8000
Stepping Stones Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
4000 Nw 53rd Ave, Gainesville, FL
Phone
(352) 371-1090

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Frequently asked questions

There are 48 child daycare & preschools daycares in Gainesville, Florida, out of 63 total childcare facilities in the city. Browse our directory to compare options and find the right fit for your child.
When choosing a daycare in Gainesville, consider visiting facilities in person and checking:
  • Licensing status with Florida's regulatory agency
  • Staff-to-child ratios (requirements vary by age group in Florida)
  • Safety measures and cleanliness
  • Daily routines and educational curriculum
  • Parent reviews and ratings
  • Location and hours that fit your schedule
Gainesville offers several types of childcare facilities:
  • Child Daycare & Preschools — 48 facilities
  • Headstart Programs — 1 facilities
  • Church Daycare — 14 facilities
Each type serves different needs — center-based facilities typically offer structured programs, while head start programs are federally funded for low-income families.
Daycare costs in Florida typically range from $200 to $400 per week for full-time care, depending on the child's age, facility type, and location within the state. Infant care tends to be more expensive due to lower staff-to-child ratio requirements. Contact individual facilities in Gainesville for current pricing.
Yes, daycare centers in Gainesville must be licensed by Florida's childcare licensing agency. Licensed facilities are required to meet standards for safety, health, staff qualifications, and staff-to-child ratios. You can verify a facility's license status through your state's licensing database.