The Best Daycare Centers in Bloomington, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bloomington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bloomington
Bloomington Developmental Learning Center
BDLC
BDLC is a highly respected, non-profit childcare center with a developmental approach to early childhood education. They employ degreed teachers and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The curriculum focuses on hands-on learning, social-emotional development, and individualized attention. Their facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, extensive outdoor play areas, and specialized learning environments. BDLC is known for its experienced staff, comprehensive programming from infancy through kindergarten, and strong parent communication systems.
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Stepping Stones
Stepping Stones
Stepping Stones provides progressive early childhood education with a play-based, emergent curriculum that follows children's interests while meeting developmental milestones. Their highly qualified teachers create nurturing environments that emphasize creativity, problem-solving, and social skills. The center features modern classrooms, natural outdoor play spaces, and specialized learning centers. Parents consistently praise the dedicated staff, clean and safe facilities, and the center's commitment to individualized care and developmentally appropriate practices.
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KidKare Preschool & Childcare Center
KidKare
KidKare offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a balanced approach that combines structured learning with creative exploration. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, arts, and physical education. The center maintains small class sizes with qualified teachers who receive ongoing professional development. Facilities include secure, age-specific classrooms, large playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. KidKare is particularly noted for its engaging educational programs, nutritious meal service, and strong focus on school readiness skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bloomington, IN
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Bloomington, Indiana?
In Bloomington, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,500 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $950 to $1,300 per month. These costs can vary significantly based on the type of provider. University-affiliated centers (like those associated with Indiana University's Early Childhood Education Services) and accredited facilities tend to be at the higher end of the range, while licensed home-based daycares may offer more affordable options. It's important to note that Bloomington's status as a university town can influence pricing and availability. Financial assistance is available through Indiana's Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program for eligible families, and some local centers offer sliding scale fees.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers in Bloomington, and how can I secure a spot?
Waitlists in Bloomington are common, especially for infants and at highly sought-after centers affiliated with Indiana University or with top-tier Paths to QUALITY ratings. It is not unusual for families to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer, for infant care. To secure a spot, parents are advised to begin their search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible—often during pregnancy. When contacting a center, ask specific questions about their list: Is there a fee to join? How often should you check in? Is the list prioritized for university faculty/staff or siblings of current students? Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in surrounding neighborhoods, which may have shorter wait times.
What is the Paths to QUALITY system, and how should I use it when choosing a childcare provider in Bloomington?
Paths to QUALITY is Indiana’s voluntary quality rating and improvement system for licensed childcare providers. It rates programs from Level 1 (meets health and safety needs) to Level 4 (national accreditation). In Bloomington, many parents use this as a key screening tool. You can search for rated providers by zip code on the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) website. A Level 3 or 4 rating indicates a program has met higher standards for learning environment and staff education. However, a high rating doesn't guarantee availability or a perfect fit for your child. We recommend using Paths to QUALITY as a starting point, then visiting the centers, observing classrooms, and asking about their educational philosophy (e.g., play-based, Montessori, Reggio-inspired) to find the best match for your family.
Are there any unique childcare resources or networks for parents at Indiana University Bloomington (IU)?
Yes, Indiana University Bloomington offers specific resources for its student, faculty, and staff parents. The IU Early Childhood Education Services (ECES) operates several on-campus childcare centers, including the Campus Children’s Center and the Hoosier Court Nursery School. These centers often give enrollment priority to IU affiliates, though waitlists are typically very long. The IU Office of Student Life also maintains a database of local, licensed childcare providers. Furthermore, student parents may be eligible for childcare subsidies through grants or the CCDF program. Connecting with other IU parent networks, like family housing communities or departmental groups, can also be invaluable for finding trusted caregiver recommendations and navigating local options.
What are the licensing requirements and oversight for daycare providers in Bloomington, and how can I check a provider's compliance history?
All childcare providers in Bloomington caring for more than five unrelated children must be licensed by the State of Indiana through the Division of Family Resources. Licensing ensures minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and background checks are met. You can verify a provider’s license status and view their compliance history, including any past violations, through the Indiana FSSA’s Child Care Finder website. This public database shows inspection reports, the provider’s Paths to QUALITY level, and capacity. It is highly recommended that parents review this information and ask providers directly about any past violations. For added peace of mind, you can also contact the local Child Care Resource and Referral agency, **Choices Coordinated Care Solutions**, which serves Monroe County and can provide guidance and referrals.