The Best Daycare Centers in Findlay, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Findlay. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Findlay
Little Hearts Learning Center
Independent
Little Hearts Learning Center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes social-emotional development. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood certifications, low student-to-teacher ratios, and a structured curriculum that includes literacy development, STEM activities, and creative arts. Their secure facility includes monitored access, fenced outdoor play areas, and age-appropriate learning environments. They offer nutritious meals and snacks through their USDA-approved food program and maintain strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Kiddie Kampus Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kampus Learning Center offers a balanced educational approach combining structured academic preparation with developmental play. Their curriculum focuses on kindergarten readiness through phonics, early math concepts, and social skills development. The center employs qualified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development training. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The facility includes separate age-appropriate classrooms, large motor skill development areas, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups.
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Discovery Garden Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Discovery Garden Preschool & Childcare emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning through their nature-inspired curriculum that incorporates outdoor education and environmental awareness. Their educational philosophy focuses on developing the whole child through creative expression, sensory exploration, and project-based learning. The center features certified early childhood teachers with specialized training in developmental milestones and differentiated instruction. Their facility includes dedicated art and music rooms, age-appropriate learning centers, and natural outdoor play spaces. They maintain small class sizes and prioritize individualized attention for each child's developmental needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Findlay, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Findlay, IL?
In Findlay and the surrounding Shelby County area, full-time daycare costs are generally more affordable than in larger Illinois cities. For an infant, you can expect to pay approximately $130 to $180 per week. For toddlers, the cost typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week. These rates are for licensed home-based daycares or smaller local centers. It's important to note that options within the village itself are limited, so many parents also consider providers in nearby towns like Shelbyville or Effingham, which may have slightly higher rates. Always ask what is included in the weekly fee, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Findlay is licensed and what are the state regulations I should know about?
All licensed daycare providers in Illinois are regulated by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can verify a provider's license status and view any history of licensing violations by using the "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the Illinois DCFS website. Key regulations for Illinois include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:8 for toddlers), background checks for all staff, and required health and safety training. In a small community like Findlay, many providers operate as licensed family child care homes, which are allowed to care for up to 8 children. It's also a good practice to ask local parents for recommendations and experiences.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools with specific educational programs in or near Findlay?
While Findlay itself is a small village with primarily home-based daycare options, there are structured preschool programs available in the broader area. The Findlay Community School District may offer early childhood screening and resources. Many parents look to neighboring Shelbyville (about a 15-minute drive) for more formal preschool programs, such as those often offered by churches or private centers, which may include curricula like Creative Curriculum or play-based learning. For specialized programs, you may need to commute to Effingham. It's recommended to contact the Shelby County Health Department or the Regional Office of Education #11 for a current list of licensed providers and their program offerings.
What is the availability and waitlist situation for childcare in Findlay, and when should I start looking?
Due to Findlay's small size, licensed childcare slots are limited and can fill up quickly, especially for infants. It is not uncommon for popular home-based providers to have waitlists of several months. We strongly recommend beginning your search during pregnancy, ideally by the second trimester. If you need care for an infant, contacting providers 6-9 months in advance is advisable. Networking with other parents at local community events, the Findlay Village Hall, or through social media groups for Shelby County parents can provide leads on upcoming openings or less-advertised home daycares.
What resources are available in Findlay or Shelby County to help me find and choose a quality daycare?
Your primary local resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency that serves Shelby County, which is often the "Child Care Resource Service" based at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. They maintain a database of licensed providers and can offer referrals. You can also contact the Shelby County Health Department for information. For quality indicators, look for providers participating in Illinois' voluntary quality rating system, "ExceleRate Illinois." Although fewer providers in rural areas may be rated, a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Circle of Quality designation is a strong sign of commitment to standards beyond basic licensing. Additionally, the Regional Office of Education #11 can provide guidance on early learning programs.