The Smart Start Preschool & Learning Center
Daycare center in Hamden, CT. 4133 Whitney Ave, Hamden, CT 06518
About the program
The Smart Start Preschool & Learning Center is a licensed daycare center in Hamden, Connecticut, on the state register since 2010. It is licensed for 52 children and serves infant, toddler, preschool and school age ages.
Smart Start Preschool and Learning Center provides child care and educational programs for infants, toddlers, and school-age children in Hamden, Connecticut.
Tuition and capacity
Tuition: not listed. The Smart Start Preschool & Learning Center does not publish a fee schedule on its website. Programs in the area that publish full-time tuition have a median starting price of $1,408 a month.
Licensing and safety
Open the state record →Most violations are record-keeping, training or maintenance items, and nearly every program has some. Read what each one was and how fast it was fixed. Connecticut records each regulation cited at an inspection with the date it was closed. The state does not assign a risk level. The text shown is the regulation the program was cited under.
Authorized prescriber/parent permission [19a-79-9a(b)(3)(A-B)]
Regulation: Except for nonprescription topical medications, no medication shall be administered to a child without the written order of an authorized prescriber and the written permission of the child's parent(s) which shall be on file at the facility. Individual written medication administration records for each child shall be written in ink, reviewed prior to administering each dose of medication and kept on file at the facility for at least three years after the child is no longer attending the program.
Labeling and storage [19a-79-9a(b)(5)(A-B)]
Regulation: Medication shall be stored in the original child-resistant safety container and appropriately labeled. Medication shall be stored in a locked area or a locked container in a refrigerator in keeping with the label directions away from food and inaccessible to children. Only personnel authorized to administer medication may be provided with the means to access such medication. Controlled drugs shall be stored in accordance with state law.
Diapering [19a-79-10(e)(1-10)]
Regulation: The diapering area shall be an elevated sturdy table or counter equipped with a safety rail. Infants and toddlers shall be diapered at a diapering area used only for this purpose and located in the program area. Each diapering area shall have a non-porous surface and be kept in good repair. Diapering areas shall be washed and disinfected after each use. Disposable paper sheets shall be used and discarded immediately after each diapering. A covered washable lined waste receptacle shall be availab
Local Health Inspection [19a-79-2a(c)(8)]
Regulation: At least every two (2) years, the local health director shall make unannounced visits, inspections or investigations of the licensed child care center or group child care home.
Water supply- water testing [19a-79-7a(c)(5)(A-C)]
Regulation: Water supply, food service and sewage disposal facilities shall be adequate, safe and in compliance with all applicable sections of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies. Water from at least one drinking fountain or drinking, beverage and food preparation sink, and from two such sources if the facility has more than one, shall be tested every two years for lead content. The water sample shall have been standing in plumbing pipes at least six hours and the results shall be submitted to th
Show all 75 violations on file
Individual care plan- signed by parents/staff [19a-79-5a(a)(2)(E)]
Regulation: An individual plan of care for any child with special health care needs or disabilities when it is necessary that special care be taken or provided while a child is in attendance shall be developed and implemented with the child's parent(s) and health care provider and updated, as necessary. The plan shall include appropriate care of the child to prevent and respond to a medical or other emergency and shall be signed by the parent and program staff responsible for the care of the child.
Policies- complete, implemented [19a-79-3a(d)(2)-(7)]
Regulation: The operator shall implement and annually review specific written policies, plans and procedures that include, but not necessarily be limited to discipline, when a child is not picked up as planned, multi-hazard and medical emergencies, supervision of children, general operating policies, administrative oversight and personnel policies. The operator shall notify the parent(s), staff and the Office of Early Childhood within five (5) days of changes in these policies, plans and procedures.
Indoor climbing play equipment- shock absorbing materials under and around [19a-79-7a(g)(6)]
Regulation: Indoor play equipment for climbing shall have a shock absorbing surface, under and around, that shall effectively cushion the fall of a child. Carpet is not considered a shock absorbing surface.
Professional development [19a-79-4a(a)(2), (h)(1-2)]
Regulation: Documentation of professional development for each program staff who cares for the children, including new employee orientation and annual training for current program staff on the child care center or group child care home policies, plans and procedures. Program staff, including the director, shall complete health and safety training no later than three months after the date of hire. Written verification of ongoing training that is at least one percent of the total annual hours worked. As of A
Consultants [19a-79-4a(i)(1-2)(H), (F)]
Regulation: An education consultant shall be available to the operator and program staff for advice and support regarding the educational content and practice of the program. A person needs to apply for approval to be an education consultant. Program staff shall not serve as education consultants for programs in which they provide direct care or direct program supervision in a non-consultative role; or in a program with the same operator as a program in which they provide direct care or direct program super
Licensed premises-clean, good repair, hazard free-maintenance program [19a-79-7a(c)(2)]
Regulation: For programs serving children younger than school age, the building, equipment and furnishings shall be maintained in a good state of repair. A maintenance program shall be established that ensures that the interior, exterior and grounds of the building are maintained, kept clean and orderly, free from accumulations of refuse, dampness, stagnant water, dilapidated structures and other health and safety hazards.
Potentially hazardous substances, materials � labeled, inaccessible to children [19a-79-7a(e)(10)]
Regulation: Potentially hazardous substances and materials in the child care centers and group child care homes shall be stored in a labeled container identifying the exact contents and dilutions, used according to the manufacturer�s instructions and for the intended purpose, handled in a safe manner and inaccessible to children.
Outdoor space [19a-79-7a(h)(1-9)]
Regulation: There shall be access to a minimum of seventy-five (75) square feet per child of outdoor space for the number of children using the space at any one time. The outdoor area shall be fenced or protected for safety. Outdoor play equipment shall have a shock absorbing surface, under and around, that shall effectively cushion the fall of a child, except where the child is sitting or standing at ground level. The shock absorbing surface shall be maintained at a depth of at least eight inches, be free
Authorized prescriber/parent permission [19a-79-9a(b)(3)(A-B)]
Regulation: Except for nonprescription topical medications, no medication shall be administered to a child without the written order of an authorized prescriber and the written permission of the child's parent(s) which shall be on file at the facility. Individual written medication administration records for each child shall be written in ink, reviewed prior to administering each dose of medication and kept on file at the facility for at least three years after the child is no longer attending the program.
Individual care plan- signed by parents/staff [19a-79-5a(a)(2)(E)]
Regulation: An individual plan of care for any child with special health care needs or disabilities when it is necessary that special care be taken or provided while a child is in attendance shall be developed and implemented with the child's parent(s) and health care provider and updated, as necessary. The plan shall include appropriate care of the child to prevent and respond to a medical or other emergency and shall be signed by the parent and program staff responsible for the care of the child.
Adequate sinks-handwashing-diapering/other use-food prep [19a-79-10(d)(1)(A-C)]
Regulation: In child care centers there shall be a sink with hot and cold running water designated for diaper changing and hand washing of program staff and children. This sink shall be located in the program space. Child care centers which have three program staff for a group of infants or toddlers may use an accessible diaper changing facility if it is immediately adjoining the program area. Separate sinks shall be available for purposes other than hand washing after diaper changing within child care cent
Safe Sleep [19a-79-10(g)(1-8)]
Regulation: Infants under twelve months of age shall be placed in a supine (back) position for sleeping in a well-constructed, free standing crib or other piece of equipment designed for infant sleeping and appropriate for the particular child. A well-constructed, free standing crib or other piece of equipment shall be used designed for infant sleeping and appropriate for the particular child, with a snug fitting mattress covered by a tightly-fitted sheet. Infants under twelve months of age shall be placed
Unused/Expired meds-destroyed/returned [19a-79-9a(b)(5)(D)]
Regulation: All unused or expired medication, except for controlled substances, shall be returned to the parent(s) or disposed of if it is not picked up within one week following the termination of the order, in the presence of at least one witness. The facility shall keep a written record of the medications destroyed for three years which shall be signed by both parties.
Menus- 1 wk in advance- keep 3 mths [19a-79-6a(a)(4)]
Regulation: When a child care center or group child care home provides either meals or snacks, menus shall be prepared at least one week in advance, dated and copies posted in a conspicuous place. Changes shall be documented by the end of the program day. A copy of what was served shall be kept on file for three months.
Exits, stairs, hallways unobstructed [19a-79-7a(d)(6)-(f)(3)]
Regulation: Exit doorways, stairs or hallways shall not be blocked by furniture, toys or play equipment. Cots, cribs and playpens shall be placed so that walkways are clear for emergencies and evacuation.
Walls/ceilings/floors/rugs-clean, good repair [19a-79-7a(e)(5)]
Regulation: Walls, ceilings, floors and rugs shall be maintained in a state of good repair and be washable or easily cleanable. Rugs, if used, shall not present a tripping or slipping hazard.
Air cond./water heaters/fuse boxes inaccessible [19a-79-7a(g)(3)]
Regulation: Hardware such as air conditioners, water heaters or fuse boxes shall be inaccessible to children.
Playground Free From Hazards [19a-79-7a(g)(4) and/or 19a-79-7a(h)]
Regulation: Hardware such as air conditioners, water heaters or fuse boxes shall be inaccessible to children. The playground shall be free of glass, debris, holes and other hazards.
Equipment Clean/Good Repair/Safe/Non-toxic [19a-79-7a(g)]
Regulation: All equipment shall be of such design and material as to be readily cleaned and safe for children. Equipment shall not be colored or covered by any poisonous material. Equipment shall be sturdy, safely constructed and free from protruding nails, rust, toxic material and other hazards.
Individual Care Plan (Signed by Parent/Staff) [19a-79-5a(a)(2)(E)]
Regulation: The operator of a child care center or group child care home is responsible for maintaining on the licensed premises a current record for each child enrolled. A copy of the record shall be available and provided upon request to the Office of Early Childhood, the child's parent(s) and the local health director. It shall include an individual plan of care for any child with special health care needs or disabilities, developed with the child's parent(s) and health care provider and updated, as nece
Oral/Topical/Inhalant/Injectable Medications: Authorized Prescriber/Parent Permission/MAR [19a-79-9a(b)(3) and/or 19a-79-9a(b)(4)]
Regulation: Except for nonprescription topical medications, no medication shall be administered to a child without the written order of an authorized prescriber and the written permission of the child's parent(s) which shall be on file at the facility. Individual written medication administration records for each child shall be written in ink, reviewed prior to administering each dose of medication and kept on file at the facility for at least two (2) years after the child is no longer attending the program
Staff Health Records [19a-79-4a(a)(1) and/or 19a-79-4a(a)(2)]
Regulation: A file shall be kept on the licensed premises for each employee of the child care center or group child care home which shall include an acceptable medical statement and a written report of a negative tuberculin test.
Ventilation in Toilet Room [19a-79-7a(d)(11)(F) &/or19a-79-7a(d)(11)(G)]
Regulation: Each toilet room shall be ventilated to the outside atmosphere. In child care centers constructed or renovated after January 1, 1994, all toilet facilities shall be mechanically ventilated to the outside atmosphere.
Individual Care Plan (Signed by Parent/Staff) [19a-79-5a(a)(2)(E)]
Regulation: The operator of a child care center or group child care home is responsible for maintaining on the licensed premises a current record for each child enrolled. A copy of the record shall be available and provided upon request to the Office of Early Childhood, the child's parent(s) and the local health director. It shall include an individual plan of care for any child with special health care needs or disabilities, developed with the child's parent(s) and health care provider and updated, as nece
Child Health Records/Immunizations/TB [19a-79-5a(a)(2)(A) through (E)and/or19a-79-6a(e)]
Regulation: The operator of a child care center or group child care home is responsible for maintaining on the licensed premises a current record for each child enrolled. A copy of the record shall be available and provided upon request to the Office of Early Childhood, the child's parent(s) and the local health director. It shall include a health record that shall include date of birth, a physical examination form, an immunization record, and information regarding disabilities or special health care needs.
License Premise Clean/Good Repair/Safe [19a-79-6a and/or 19a-79-7a]
Regulation: The building, equipment and services shall be maintained in a good state of repair. A maintenance program shall be established that ensures that the interior, exterior and grounds of the building are maintained, kept clean and orderly, free from accumulations of refuse, dampness, stagnant water, dilapidated structures and other health and safety hazards.
Walls/Ceilings/Floors/Rugs: Clean/Good Repair [19a-79-7a(e)(5)]
Regulation: Walls, ceilings, floors and rugs shall be maintained in a state of good repair and be washable or easily cleanable.
Under Three Endorsement: Physical Barriers/Groups of 8 (Indoors/Outdoors) [19a-79-10(c)(4)]
Regulation: For children under three years of age, there shall be a physical barrier separating each group of eight (8) children, indoors and outdoors.
Nonprescription Topical Medications: Administration/Parent Permission/MAR [19a-79-9a(a)(2)]
Regulation: The written permission of the parent(s) shall be required prior to the administration of the nonprescription topical medication and a medication administration record shall be written in ink and kept on file at the facility for each child administered a nonprescription topical medication.
Plastic Bags/Balloons/Styrofoam Objects Inaccessible [19a-79-10(h)(2)]
Regulation: Plastic bags, balloons and Styrofoam objects shall not be accessible to children under three (3) years of age.
Oral/Topical/Inhalant/Injectable Medications: Authorized Prescriber/Parent Permission/MAR [19a-79-9a(b)(3) and/or 19a-79-9a(b)(4)]
Regulation: Except for nonprescription topical medications, no medication shall be administered to a child without the written order of an authorized prescriber and the written permission of the child's parent(s) which shall be on file at the facility. Individual written medication administration records for each child shall be written in ink, reviewed prior to administering each dose of medication and kept on file at the facility for at least two (2) years after the child is no longer attending the program
Oral/Topical/Inhalant/Injectable Medications: Unused/Expired Meds Returned/Disposed [19a-79-9a(b)(5)(D) and/or 19a-79-9a(b)(5)(E)]
Regulation: All unused or expired medication shall be returned to the parent(s) or disposed of if it is not picked up within one (1) week following the termination of the order, in the presence of at least one witness. The facility shall keep a written record of the medications destroyed which shall be signed by both parties. The facility shall require the parent(s) of a child who has a prescription for an automatic prefilled cartridge injector, or similar automatic injectable equipment used to treat an all
Under Three Endorsement: Group Size no Larger than 8 [19a-79-10(c)(3)]
Regulation: For children under three years of age, the group size shall not exceed eight (8) children.
018b-Background Checks [19a-79-4a(b)]
Regulation: A file shall be kept on the licensed premises for each employee of the child care center or group child care home which shall include evidence that the necessary information and documentation specified by the Office of Early Childhood in order to conduct background checks has been submitted. The operator shall provide to the Office of Early Childhood any information obtained concerning substantiated child abuse or neglect records or criminal convictions upon request.
Plastic Bags/Balloons/Styrofoam Objects Inaccessible [19a-79-10(h)(2)]
Regulation: Plastic bags, balloons and Styrofoam objects shall not be accessible to children under three (3) years of age.
Documentation of Behavioral Management Techniques Discussed with Parents [19a-79-3a(b)(8)(B)]
Regulation: The operator shall document that the techniques used to manage child behaviors in the facility have been discussed with the child's parent(s) prior to enrollment and reviewed as needed during the period of the child's enrollment.
Logs/Visits Documented [19a-79-4a(h)(2)(G)]
Regulation: A written plan for consultation services shall be developed, signed annually by the consultant and implemented. Consultative services shall include documenting the activities and observations in a consultation log that is kept on file at the facility for two years.
Infant Toys Separate/Washed/Disinfected Daily [19a-79-10(h)(1)]
Regulation: Toys used for infants shall be kept separate, washed and disinfected at least daily. Toys for toddlers, including floor and riding toys, shall be washed and disinfected at least weekly and as needed.
No Toys/Objects Less than 1 1/4 [19a-79-10(h)(2)]
Regulation: Toys and other objects with a diameter of less than one and one-quarter (1 1/4) inches, objects with removable parts that have a diameter of less than one and one-quarter (1 1/4) inches shall not be accessible to children under three (3) years of age.
Written Statement/Feeding Schedule from Parent [19a-79-10(k)(1)]
Regulation: A written statement specifying the formula, breast milk or other liquids and the feeding schedule for infants shall be obtained from the parent(s).
Menus [19a-79-3a(e)(5) and/or 19a-79-6a(a)(4)]
Regulation: When a child care center or group child care home provides either meals or snacks, menus shall be prepared at least one (1) week in advance, dated and copies posted in a conspicuous place, accessible to the public. Changes shall be documented by the end of the program day. A copy of what was served shall be kept on file for three (3) months.
Staff Health Records [19a-79-4a(a)(1) and/or 19a-79-4a(a)(2)]
Regulation: A file shall be kept on the licensed premises for each employee of the child care center or group child care home which shall include an acceptable medical statement and a written report of a negative tuberculin test.
Consultant Agreements/Contracts [19a-79-4a(h)(1) and/or 19a-79-4a(h)(2)]
Regulation: A written plan for consultation services shall be developed, signed annually by the consultant and implemented. These services shall include an early childhood educational consultant, a health consultant, a dentist or dental hygienist consultant, a social service consultant, and a registered dietitian consultant for those programs that serve meals. Consultative services shall include annual review of written policies, plans and procedures, annual review of education programs, availability by tel
Emergency Medical Permission [19a-79-5a(a)(1)(D)(i)]
Regulation: The operator of a child care center or group child care home is responsible for maintaining on the licensed premises a current record for each child enrolled. A copy of the record shall be available and provided upon request to the Office of Early Childhood, the child's parent(s) and the local health director. It shall include specific written permission forms signed by the parent(s) authorizing the operator to use the programs emergency policies which shall accompany the child on trips
Equipment Clean/Good Repair/Safe/Non-toxic [19a-79-7a(g)]
Regulation: All equipment shall be of such design and material as to be readily cleaned and safe for children. Equipment shall not be colored or covered by any poisonous material. Equipment shall be sturdy, safely constructed and free from protruding nails, rust, toxic material and other hazards.
Nonprescription Topical Medications: Administration/Parent Permission/MAR [19a-79-9a(a)(2)]
Regulation: The written permission of the parent(s) shall be required prior to the administration of the nonprescription topical medication and a medication administration record shall be written in ink and kept on file at the facility for each child administered a nonprescription topical medication.
License Premise Clean/Good Repair/Safe [19a-79-6a and/or 19a-79-7a]
Regulation: The building, equipment and services shall be maintained in a good state of repair. A maintenance program shall be established that ensures that the interior, exterior and grounds of the building are maintained, kept clean and orderly, free from accumulations of refuse, dampness, stagnant water, dilapidated structures and other health and safety hazards.
Walls/Ceilings/Floors/Rugs: Clean/Good Repair [19a-79-7a(e)(5)]
Regulation: Walls, ceilings, floors and rugs shall be maintained in a state of good repair and be washable or easily cleanable.
First Aid Kit(s):Indoor/Outdoor/Field Trip [19a-6a(c) and/or 19a-6a(d)]
Regulation: The facility shall maintain at least one (1) portable, readily available first aid kit wherever children are in care, including field trips, outdoor play areas and one to remain at the facility if all the children do not attend the field trip. Each kit shall be a closed container for storing first aid supplies, accessible to staff at all times but out of the reach of children. The first aid kit shall contain specified items and be restocked after use, and an inventory shall be conducted at least
Playground Free From Hazards [19a-79-7a(g)(4) and/or 19a-79-7a(h)]
Regulation: Hardware such as air conditioners, water heaters or fuse boxes shall be inaccessible to children. The playground shall be free of glass, debris, holes and other hazards.
Nonprescription Topical Medications: Labeling/Storage [19a-79-9a(a)(3)]
Regulation: Nonprescription Topical Medications shall be stored in the original container and shall be appropriately labeled and shall be stored away from food and inaccessible to children. Any unused portion of the medication shall be returned to the parent(s).
Impact Absorbing Material under Equipment [19a-79-7a(h)(2)]
Regulation: Where swings, seesaws or climbing apparatus are used, the surface in the space shall be protected with a minimum of eight (8) inches of impact absorbing materials.
000 No Violations [-]
Regulation: -
Documentation of Behavioral Management Techniques Discussed with Parents [19a-79-3a(b)(8)(B)]
Regulation: The operator shall document that the techniques used to manage child behaviors in the facility have been discussed with the child's parent(s) prior to enrollment and reviewed as needed during the period of the child's enrollment.
First Aid Kit(s):Indoor/Outdoor/Field Trip [19a-6a(c) and/or 19a-6a(d)]
Regulation: The facility shall maintain at least one (1) portable, readily available first aid kit wherever children are in care, including field trips, outdoor play areas and one to remain at the facility if all the children do not attend the field trip. Each kit shall be a closed container for storing first aid supplies, accessible to staff at all times but out of the reach of children. The first aid kit shall contain specified items and be restocked after use, and an inventory shall be conducted at least
Playground Free From Hazards [19a-79-7a(g)(4) and/or 19a-79-7a(h)]
Regulation: Hardware such as air conditioners, water heaters or fuse boxes shall be inaccessible to children. The playground shall be free of glass, debris, holes and other hazards.
Logs/Visits Documented [19a-79-4a(h)(2)(G)]
Regulation: A written plan for consultation services shall be developed, signed annually by the consultant and implemented. Consultative services shall include documenting the activities and observations in a consultation log that is kept on file at the facility for two years.
License Premise Clean/Good Repair/Safe [19a-79-6a and/or 19a-79-7a]
Regulation: The building, equipment and services shall be maintained in a good state of repair. A maintenance program shall be established that ensures that the interior, exterior and grounds of the building are maintained, kept clean and orderly, free from accumulations of refuse, dampness, stagnant water, dilapidated structures and other health and safety hazards.
Walls/Ceilings/Floors/Rugs: Clean/Good Repair [19a-79-7a(e)(5)]
Regulation: Walls, ceilings, floors and rugs shall be maintained in a state of good repair and be washable or easily cleanable.
Potentially Hazardous Substances Locked [19a-79-7a(e)(10)]
Regulation: Potentially hazardous substances in the child care centers and group child care homes shall be stored in a separate locked area.
Impact Absorbing Material under Equipment [19a-79-7a(h)(2)]
Regulation: Where swings, seesaws or climbing apparatus are used, the surface in the space shall be protected with a minimum of eight (8) inches of impact absorbing materials.
Equipment Anchored/Safely Arranged [19a-79-7a(h)(5) &/or 19a-79-7a(h)(9)]
Regulation: Outside equipment shall be anchored for stability. Anchors shall be buried below ground level. Outdoor equipment shall be arranged in such a way as to avoid accidents.
Staff Health Records [19a-79-4a(a)(1) and/or 19a-79-4a(a)(2)]
Regulation: A file shall be kept on the licensed premises for each employee of the child care center or group child care home which shall include an acceptable medical statement and a written report of a negative tuberculin test.
Professional Development [19a-79-4a(a)(3) and/or 19a-79-4a(g)]
Regulation: A file shall be kept on the licensed premises for each employee of the child care center or group child care home which shall include documentation of professional development for each program staff person who cares for the children, including new employee orientation and annual training for current staff on programs policies, plans and procedures. Professional development for program staff shall be required for one (1) per cent of the total annual hours worked. The operator of the child c
Consultant Agreements/Contracts [19a-79-4a(h)(1) and/or 19a-79-4a(h)(2)]
Regulation: A written plan for consultation services shall be developed, signed annually by the consultant and implemented. These services shall include an early childhood educational consultant, a health consultant, a dentist or dental hygienist consultant, a social service consultant, and a registered dietitian consultant for those programs that serve meals. Consultative services shall include annual review of written policies, plans and procedures, annual review of education programs, availability by tel
Child Health Records/Immunizations/TB [19a-79-5a(a)(2)(A) through (E)and/or19a-79-6a(e)]
Regulation: The operator of a child care center or group child care home is responsible for maintaining on the licensed premises a current record for each child enrolled. A copy of the record shall be available and provided upon request to the Office of Early Childhood, the child's parent(s) and the local health director. It shall include a health record that shall include date of birth, a physical examination form, an immunization record, and information regarding disabilities or special health care needs.
Nonprescription Topical Medications: Administration/Parent Permission/MAR [19a-79-9a(a)(2)]
Regulation: The written permission of the parent(s) shall be required prior to the administration of the nonprescription topical medication and a medication administration record shall be written in ink and kept on file at the facility for each child administered a nonprescription topical medication.
Adequate Sinks in Program Space [19a-79-10(d)(1)]
Regulation: In child care centers that serve children under three years of age, there shall be a sink with hot and cold running water designated for diaper changing and hand washing of staff and children in the program space. Visual contact with all other children shall be maintained while changing diapers or using the sink. Child care centers which staff three (3) adults to a group size of eight (8) infants or toddlers may use an accessible diaper changing facility if it is immediately adjoining the progra
Plastic Bags/Balloons/Styrofoam Objects Inaccessible [19a-79-10(h)(2)]
Regulation: Plastic bags, balloons and Styrofoam objects shall not be accessible to children under three (3) years of age.
Bottles Individually Identified w/ Child's Name [19a-79-10(k)(5)]
Regulation: Each child's bottle shall be individually identified with the child's name.
What parents say
The Smart Start is a hidden gem. I trust this facility with my children’s lives. We have attended for almost 3 years now with 3 children. One of my children has medical needs and they are always on top of everything. The staff is wonderful and caring. My children genuinely have fun here! I get so many updates about their day and wonderful photos. Smaller class sizes are perfect and allow for more individual attention…
Brian and Danielle Keil · 5/5 on Google · 10 months agoSmart Start has been a wonderful daycare for our daughter. The staff really cares about her wellbeing and safety and puts in a lot of effort to keep her happy and learning, offering a lot of activities and events that are fun and educational. They’re very responsive in communication and seem to genuinely care about her, definitely a place I recommend for new parents!
Mark Beeckman · 5/5 on Google · a year agoAll the staff here are extremely friendly and take such great care of my daughter. They do so many fun activities, crafts, songs and lessons and my daughter absolutely loves it! She is always smiling and happy in every photo I get during the day and she receives excellent care. I highly recommend The Smart Start!
Emily Goldstein · 5/5 on Google · 3 years agoWhat a wonderful facility 3 of my grandchildren have attended and I have been nothing but happy. They have activities and programs come to the Smart Start so the children not only get a book learning program they get extra experiences and hands on with reptiles, animal farm, water activities, they go on field trips the list is endless!! We love Miss Nadiya and the teachers there. Highly recommend
Rachel Hinton · 5/5 on Google · a year agoGetting there
4133 Whitney Ave, Hamden, CT 06518
Questions about The Smart Start Preschool & Learning Center
Is The Smart Start Preschool & Learning Center licensed?
Yes. The Smart Start Preschool & Learning Center holds an active Child Care Center licence from Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (licence DCCC.16844), with a licensed capacity of 52 children. The state record was synced in September 2026.
Has The Smart Start Preschool & Learning Center had any inspection violations?
Connecticut records 39 violations for The Smart Start Preschool & Learning Center in the last three years, across 5 inspections on file. The median daycare center in the area has 15. Each one is listed above with the date it was corrected.
What ages does The Smart Start Preschool & Learning Center take?
The Smart Start Preschool & Learning Center is licensed to serve infant, toddler, preschool and school age ages, and is open 7 am to 6 pm, Mon to Fri.
How much does The Smart Start Preschool & Learning Center cost?
The Smart Start Preschool & Learning Center does not publish tuition on its website. Ask for the full fee schedule on a tour, including registration, supply and late pick-up fees.
