Quality Child Care in Gig Harbor and Tacoma
A Nurturing, Safe Space for Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers
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A Trusted Child Care Provider in Gig Harbor and Tacoma 
Cottesmore Child Care has been dedicated to nurturing the next generation since 1993. We believe children thrive when they feel safe, loved, and supported. With over 30 years of experience in early childhood education, Director Clarisa Fellenz leads our centers with a passion for providing the highest quality care. Our mission is to offer children and their families a home-away-from-home where they can learn, grow, and flourish.
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Empowering Teen Parents to Succeed
Cottesmore Child Care has been dedicated to nurturing the next generation since 1993. We believe children thrive when they feel safe, loved, and supported. With over 30 years of experience in early childhood education, Director Clarisa Fellenz leads our centers with a passion for providing the highest quality care. Our mission is to offer children and their families a home-away-from-home where they can learn, grow, and flourish.
Learn More About Our Teen Parent Program 
Nurturing Young Minds with Quality Programs
At Cottesmore Child Care, we understand that every stage of a child's development is crucial. Our core programs are carefully designed to meet the evolving needs of children from infancy through pre-kindergarten, promoting growth in all areas—physical, intellectual, social, and emotional. Whether your child is just starting to explore the world as an infant or preparing for the transition to kindergarten, our programs provide the perfect balance of care, education, and play.
Infant Care (4 weeks - 1 year)
Our infant care program offers a loving and secure environment for babies to thrive. Through individualized attention, we help babies develop essential sensory and motor skills. We maintain a low caregiver-to-child ratio to ensure your baby gets the attention they need. Daily routines are carefully structured to support their growth while creating a comforting, homelike atmosphere.
Toddler Program (1 - 3 years)
Toddlers are naturally curious, and our program is designed to nurture that curiosity through hands-on learning experiences. Activities focus on the development of fine and gross motor skills, language, and social interaction. Toddlers in our care are encouraged to express themselves, play cooperatively, and begin forming the building blocks of early learning in a fun and safe environment.
Preschool (3 - 4 years)
Our preschool program lays the foundation for lifelong learning. Through a combination of structured play and engaging lessons, preschoolers develop essential skills in literacy, math, and science. We emphasize problem-solving and creativity, ensuring children are prepared for the next step in their educational journey. Social development is a key focus, helping children learn how to collaborate with peers and develop friendships.
Pre-K Program (4 - 5 years)
Our pre-K program is focused on preparing children for kindergarten. We offer a balanced curriculum that promotes literacy, math readiness, and emotional development. Activities are designed to build self-confidence and independence while ensuring children are academically and socially prepared for the transition to elementary school. We also work closely with parents to track progress and ensure each child is ready for their next educational milestone.
Childcare for Tacoma Public School Staff
Cottesmore Child Care is proud to support Tacoma Public School staff by offering dedicated, high-quality childcare services. We understand the unique challenges of balancing work and family life in the education field, which is why our Tacoma location provides a reliable and nurturing environment where your children can thrive while you focus on your important work.
Learn More About Staff ChildcareAdditional Services at Cottesmore Child Care
In addition to our core programs, we offer a variety of services designed to meet the diverse needs of our families.
State-Approved Childcare
We are licensed by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families, and our programs meet all state regulations for safety, health, and educational standards.
Child Care Subsidy Acceptance
We accept Working Connections Child Care subsidies to support families who need assistance. Our centers are committed to providing access to quality childcare for all.
Early Achievers Program
Cottesmore is part of Washington’s Early Achievers program and has achieved a Level 2 rating, ensuring that we meet high standards for child development and education.
Why Choose Us?
Unique support for teen parents
Partnership with Tacoma Public Schools
Experienced and qualified staff with 30+ years in childcare
Safe, nurturing, and educational environment
Frequently Asked Questions
We accept children from 4 weeks to 5 years of age, with specialized care for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and pre-K.
Yes, we accept childcare subsidies through the Working Connections Child Care program.
Our Gig Harbor location operates Monday through Friday from 5:45 AM to 5:00 PM. Our Tacoma location's hours are to be determined.
Reviews
We have been here 2.5 years with 2 kids and we are very happy here. My son recently aged out, but my daughter still attends. She has been in the infant room, waddler room, and now up in the preschool rooms. After some issues I had with a nanny I was...
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My kid has been here for a year now. Great staff, easy to work with and communicate, and my kid really likes them. The crew is relatively stable, which shows you that they like their job here. Happy teachers probably means happy kids. They play outs...
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Let me start by saying we are 100% thrilled that our son is at Cottesmore! He was born February 2020 just before COVID. When it came time to go back to work we were VERY concerned about cleanliness in addition to our baseline worries about leaving...
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Contact Us Today to Explore Our Programs
If you're ready to learn more about how Cottesmore Child Care can support your child’s development, contact us today to schedule a tour at either of our locations. We look forward to welcoming you and your family into our nurturing community!
