The Best Daycare Centers in Bradford, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bradford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bradford
The Goddard School of Fort Wayne
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Fort Wayne offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their highly qualified teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and dedicated play areas. They emphasize STEAM learning, language development, and social-emotional growth through structured daily activities. The school maintains rigorous health and safety protocols with regular sanitization and staff training.
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Primrose School of Fort Wayne
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Fort Wayne provides Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their accredited program focuses on character development, literacy, and hands-on learning experiences. The facility features secure environments with keypad entry, dedicated age-based classrooms, and outdoor learning spaces. Certified teachers implement research-based curriculum with regular assessments. The school offers enrichment programs including music, Spanish, and physical development activities. They maintain comprehensive safety protocols including background-checked staff and emergency preparedness training.
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The Learning Experience - Fort Wayne
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Fort Wayne offers L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, mathematics, and social skills development. Their proprietary programs include Yoga, Soccer, and Philanthropy lessons. The center features modern security systems including coded entry and surveillance, along with bright, developmentally-appropriate classrooms. Their staff includes certified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. The program emphasizes cognitive, physical, and social development through structured learning centers and interactive technology. They maintain excellent staff-to-child ratios and comprehensive health protocols.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bradford, IN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Bradford, Indiana, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Bradford, Indiana, all childcare centers and licensed family daycare homes must be regulated by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), specifically the Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. Providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, background checks, and staff training. To verify a facility's license, you can use the State of Indiana's online **Child Care Finder** tool. This database allows you to search for providers in Bradford (Starke County) and view their license status, inspection reports, and any history of non-compliance. It's the most reliable way to ensure you are considering a legally operating and monitored facility.
What is the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare in Bradford, IN, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Bradford and the surrounding Starke County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from **$130 to $180 per week**, while toddler care may be slightly lower, around **$120 to $160 per week**. These costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and whether it is a home-based or center-based facility. For financial assistance, Indiana's **Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program** is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school requirements. You can apply through the Starke County Division of Family Resources office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Bradford, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Bradford, waitlists for infant care, in particular, can be significant. It's not uncommon for popular centers or licensed home providers to have waitlists of **3 to 9 months**. To secure a spot, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, even if you're not yet ready for care. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$50). Stay in regular contact (every 2-3 months) to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Knox or North Judson, but factor in the commute.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Bradford, IN, and what are the key differences?
Bradford primarily offers two types of licensed childcare settings. **Licensed Child Care Centers** are facilities like the Bradford Head Start program or faith-based preschools, offering structured curricula, multiple staff, and often care for larger groups of children. **Licensed Family Child Care Homes** are operated in a provider's residence, typically offering a smaller, home-like environment with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. Given Bradford's rural nature, family homes are a common and valued option. Unlicensed registered ministries are also present but are not required to meet all state licensing standards, so parents should carefully inquire about their specific policies and oversight.
Are there any local resources or networks in Bradford to help parents find and evaluate childcare options?
Yes, a key local resource is the **Northwest Indiana Community Action Corporation (NICAC)**, which serves Starke County. They administer the Head Start program in Bradford and can provide referrals and information about local childcare options and quality indicators. For broader support, parents can contact **Purdue Extension Starke County**, which often offers parenting resources and may have connections to early childhood networks. Additionally, joining local community Facebook groups (e.g., "Bradford, IN Community" or "Starke County Moms") can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations and real-time insights from other parents about provider reputations and availability.
Childcare Insights for Bradford
Finding the right childcare arrangement is one of the most significant decisions a family makes. For many parents in Bradford, Indiana, a full-time schedule doesn’t always align with work commitments, school hours, or family needs. If you’re searching for “part time daycare near me,” you’re likely seeking flexibility, quality care, and a nurturing environment for your child without a five-day-a-week commitment. The good news is that this option is not only available but can be an ideal solution for many families right here in our community.
Bradford, with its close-knit feel, offers a distinct advantage when searching for care. Smaller, home-based daycare providers often have more flexibility to accommodate part-time schedules, whether that’s two or three specific days a week, half-days, or even occasional care. These local providers become an extension of your family, offering a consistent and personal touch that is so valued in a town like ours. When you begin your search, consider starting with word-of-mouth recommendations from neighbors at the Bradford Community Center or other parents you meet at the Jay County Public Library branch. Personal referrals in a small town often lead to the most trusted and reliable options.
It’s important to ask specific questions that go beyond just availability. Inquire about the daily structure for part-time children—how are they helped to integrate into the group on their scheduled days? Discuss policies on illness and vacations to ensure the arrangement is fair for both your family and the provider. Given Bradford’s rural setting, transportation is another practical point to consider; clarify if any local providers are able to assist with school pick-ups from nearby elementary schools if that’s part of your need. Always verify that any provider you are seriously considering is licensed and insured through the State of Indiana, which provides a crucial baseline for health, safety, and training standards.
Another excellent avenue to explore is any local churches in Bradford or the surrounding areas. Many offer preschool or Mother’s Day Out programs that operate on a part-time basis, providing a structured, play-based environment perfect for socializing young children. These programs often follow a school-year calendar, which can be a perfect match for parents with shifting seasonal schedules. Remember, the best fit is about more than just convenience; it’s about finding a caregiver whose philosophy on learning, discipline, and play resonates with your own family values.
Taking the time to visit a few potential places is essential. Observe how the caregiver interacts with the children already in their care and notice if the environment feels safe, clean, and engaging. Trust your instincts as a parent. The goal is to find a place where your child feels secure and happy on their part-time days, giving you peace of mind whether you’re heading to work in Portland, Fort Wayne, or managing responsibilities from home here in Bradford. By focusing your search locally and asking the right questions, you can find a part-time daycare solution that supports your child’s growth and perfectly complements your family’s unique rhythm.