The Best Daycare Centers in Chesterton, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Chesterton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Chesterton
The Goddard School of Chesterton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Chesterton is renowned for its F.L.E.X. Learning Program, which balances academic readiness with play-based exploration. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, STEM, and social-emotional development through hands-on activities. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds designed for safe, active play. Parents praise the consistent communication, inclusive environment, and focus on whole-child development, making it a top choice for families seeking a structured yet nurturing early education experience.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Valparaiso
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Valparaiso serves the Chesterton area with a research-based curriculum that integrates phonics, math, and science into daily routines. The center emphasizes social skills and kindergarten readiness through guided play and project-based learning. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, with ongoing professional development in child development best practices. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms, multimedia learning stations, and fenced outdoor play areas with safety surfacing. Highlights include nutritious meal programs, regular parent-teacher conferences, and a strong track record of safety, contributing to high parent satisfaction and developmental outcomes.
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Chesterton Montessori School
Independent
Chesterton Montessori School offers an authentic Montessori education focused on fostering independence, curiosity, and respect in a prepared environment. The curriculum includes practical life skills, sensorial activities, and individualized learning plans tailored to each child's pace. Teachers are Montessori-certified and trained in observational assessment techniques. The school features natural lighting, child-sized furniture, and gardens for outdoor learning, with stringent cleanliness and safety protocols. Parents value the peaceful atmosphere, emphasis on self-directed learning, and strong community feel, making it ideal for families seeking a holistic, child-centered approach to early childhood development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Chesterton, IN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Chesterton, Indiana?
In Chesterton, Indiana, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $225 and $275 per week at a licensed daycare center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), weekly rates typically range from $200 to $250. In-home daycare providers may offer slightly lower rates, often between $160 and $220 per week. These costs are generally in line with the Porter County average but are typically lower than what you'd find in larger Chicago-area suburbs. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and curriculum materials.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Chesterton?
All licensed childcare providers in Chesterton, Indiana, are regulated by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), specifically the Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. You can verify a provider's license and view their compliance history, including any past violations, through the state's online **Child Care Finder** portal. Simply search by the provider's name or zip code (46304). Additionally, you can contact the local **Porter County Division of Family Resources** for assistance. We highly recommend visiting any potential daycare in person and asking the director to see their most recent licensing report, which they are required to post in a visible location.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Chesterton, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to high demand for quality childcare in the Chesterton area, especially for infants, many established daycare centers do have waitlists. It is very common for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months for infant rooms. We recommend starting your search during your second trimester of pregnancy, if possible. For toddler and preschool spots, a 3-6 month lead time is more typical. To manage this, get on multiple waitlists (even if there's a small fee) and check in periodically. Some local centers, particularly church-affiliated or smaller in-home providers, may have shorter or more flexible wait times.
What are the options for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Chesterton?
While full-time care is most common, Chesterton does offer some part-time and flexible options. Several daycare centers offer 2, 3, or 4-day-a-week schedules for preschool-age children, though these are less common for infants. Many local in-home daycare providers are more willing to accommodate non-traditional or part-time schedules. Additionally, you can explore drop-in care at facilities like the **Chesterton Sports & Recreation Center**, which offers parent's day out programs. For true flexibility, consider building a network of local, vetted babysitters found through community Facebook groups (e.g., "Chesterton, Indiana Community") or apps, though this is not a licensed daycare substitute.
What local resources or programs in Chesterton can help me find and pay for quality childcare?
Chesterton parents have several local and state resources. For financial assistance, Indiana's **Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program** is administered locally through the Porter County Division of Family Resources; eligibility is based on income, family size, and work/school requirements. For finding providers, the **Porter County Early Childhood Coalition** is a valuable local organization that connects parents to resources. The **Duneland Family YMCA** also offers preschool and childcare programs and may have financial assistance for members. Always check with your employer, as some local companies in the industrial or healthcare sectors may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or referral services.