Day Care CenterPreschoolPrivate SchoolChild Development Center
At The Goddard School located in South Portland, we're more than just a daycare. The Goddard School is a private preschool, offering childcare to infants and toddlers to pre-k. Our programs are designed to nurture each child's curiosity in a safe and caring environment.
The reason for this score is because Goddard takes the best care of my son. He loves his teachers and little baby mates. I love the daily updates for diaper changes, feeding schedule and many pictures I receive so I can see my cutie throughout the day. The school is clean and very welcoming, the staff is beyond respectful and friendly. I am glad I when with them vs any other school. Super happy with my choice here.
FH
Family Houser
Jun 13, 2025
5.0
This place has been very special for our family. We first came here 6 years ago and they have been a very important part of all three of our boys’ early lives. As with all child care, there has been changes over the years as people have come and gone but a constant is the passion and care that all have provided. We have had the great fortune to get to know the teachers, administrators, and owners well and have always been very happy with and grateful for the family here at Goddard!
SB
Sara Behrendt
May 11, 2024
5.0
We have both our kids at Goddard (ages 4 and 1) and have been there now for 3 years. We love all the engaging hands on activities the teachers do with the kids every day. They’re always bringing home fun art, new sign language and Spanish, and love their teachers and friends at school. They really learn a lot at Goddard and prepare them to excel in kindergarten. We get updates (written and pictures) via the app. It’s so nice to have reassurance and easy communication with teachers throughout the day. We love that they go outside on the school playground twice a day. We really feel the school and teachers take safety seriously. We would recommend Goddard to anyone considering it.
SB
Simona Beattie
Dec 12, 2018
5.0
This is such a great place for kids. My little boy loves it and is excited to go every day, which is such a comfort for this working mom. Staff is caring and supportive. I love all the fun activities they do with the kids - so creative.
SM
Sue Myers
Jul 30, 2018
5.0
The staff are caring and considerate and my daughter (2 yrs) has so much fun at her "school". All in all it has been a great experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Goddard School of South Portland
Are you Licensed?
We take extra care to ensure that each of our Goddard School locations is licensed in their specific state before opening. States also conduct annual and semi-annual licensing visits to ensure our Schools remain in compliance. If you have any further questions regarding licensing, please contact your local Goddard School to learn more.
What are your rates?
Our tuition rates are comparable to others in your local premium childcare market. Because each School is an individually owned and operated franchise, rates vary. Please contact your local Goddard School to learn more.
Do you have a waiting list?
Availability is based on each individual School. Please contact your local Goddard School to learn more.
Do you offer discounts?
Because each Goddard School is an individually owned and operated franchise, special offers vary by location. Please contact your local Goddard School to learn more.
Do you provide education or only childcare?
Yes, The Goddard School® is an early learning institution that focuses on the social, emotional, physical and academic development of children from infancy to pre-k. Our highly trained and motivated faculty develop experiential lesson plans for all age groups that reflect the skills, abilities and interests of the children in each classroom.
Against the backdrop of a warm, safe and caring environment, The Goddard School supports children on their journey to becoming confident and joyful learners who are ready for school, careers and life.
What is a typical day at The Goddard School like?
In each classroom, we provide hands-on, playful, child-centered learning experiences that vary based on the children’s levels of development. Teachers help children grow into happy, healthy, intelligent little humans who are ready to take on the world around them.
For infants, we follow the care schedule set by your family and utilize personal care moments to connect with and expand your little one’s individual development. Our teachers also incorporate songs, finger play, books and sensory and physical exploration each day.
Our busy toddlers flex their independence as they learn to walk, talk and safely explore the world around them. Their curiosity and interests drive the classroom structure.
In our preschool and pre-k classrooms, we add more school preparation and readiness by focusing on academic skills as well as interpersonal and collaboration skills. Teachers support children as they investigate the world around them. Children learn how to ask and answer questions, work with others, navigate social situations and understand and communicate their own thoughts and feelings.
Our teachers expertly create supportive classrooms for all children to safely learn and test new social, academic and physical skills throughout a typical routine that includes morning and afternoon snack time, lunch, naptime, exploration time, small and large group experiences and outdoor play.
What types of qualifications do Goddard School teachers and caregivers have?
Our experienced Goddard School teachers meet all state and/or local regulations and have access to continuous training provided by their state and our own Goddard University. We train teachers on a regular basis in health and safety regulations, education standards and more.
Can any of the families in the School opt out of vaccinating their children?
In many states, children who are not vaccinated because of exemptions based on medical condition or sincerely held religious beliefs attend The Goddard Schools. If your child is not vaccinated, please contact the owner of The Goddard School to inquire as to whether exemptions may apply as not all exemptions are recognized in every state. To ensure the health and safety of everyone, if an outbreak occurs and a child has not been vaccinated, they will be asked to stay at home.
What supplies do I need to provide for my child?
Please provide any necessary personal care supplies for your little one, such as diapers, wipes, a change of clothing and naptime bedding. For infants, please supply a crib sheet. For toddlers and older children please bring a blanket and/or sleeping bag. Many of our locations also ask that you pack lunch for your child each day. Please contact your local School for additional details.
What age groups does The Goddard School of South Portland serve?
The Goddard School provides childcare and early education programs for infants, toddlers, and children up to pre-kindergarten age.
Are the teachers at The Goddard School qualified?
Yes, our teachers meet all state and local regulations and receive continuous training through Goddard University, ensuring high-quality education and care.
What is a typical day like for my child at The Goddard School?
Children experience hands-on, playful, and child-centered learning tailored to their developmental levels, including meals, naps, exploration, group activities, and outdoor play.
Is The Goddard School licensed?
Yes, all Goddard School locations are licensed by their respective states, with regular inspections to maintain compliance and safety standards.
What are the tuition rates and payment options at The Goddard School?
Tuition rates vary by franchise and align with the local premium childcare market. Payment is accepted via cash and check; please contact the school for specific rates.
Does The Goddard School have a waiting list and offer discounts?
Availability and special offers vary by location. Please contact the South Portland school directly for up-to-date information.
What supplies do I need to provide for my child?
Parents should provide personal care items such as diapers, wipes, clothing, and bedding appropriate for their child's age; some locations also request packed lunches.
What are the operating hours of The Goddard School of South Portland?
The school is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and it is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
Are there places nearby where I can engage in activities while visiting The Goddard School?
Yes, nearby places include Sensational Play LLC and DAYA Foundation yoga studios, Karatedo Ryubukai martial arts club, and Finicky's Bagel Cafe for refreshments.
How can nearby facilities like Sarahjoy Marsh Yoga and Karatedo Ryubukai complement my child's experience at The Goddard School?
These nearby yoga and martial arts centers offer opportunities for children and parents to develop physical fitness and discipline, complementing the school's educational programs.
What local amenities near The Goddard School could be helpful for parents visiting the school?
Nearby amenities include U.S. Bank for financial services, John’s Landing Cleaners for laundry needs, and Chaparral Books for educational materials and reading.