The Best Daycare Centers in Crane, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Crane. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Crane
Little Blessings Learning Center
Independent
Little Blessings Learning Center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a Christian-based curriculum that focuses on developmental milestones. The center features highly qualified teachers with Early Childhood Education credentials, maintaining excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their program includes age-appropriate learning activities, structured play, and literacy development. The facility boasts secure entry systems, modern classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Parents praise the center's nurturing environment, strong communication, and emphasis on social-emotional development alongside academic preparation.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Kampus Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kampus Learning Center offers a research-based curriculum that combines play-based learning with structured educational activities. The center employs state-licensed teachers with specialized training in early childhood development. Their program includes STEM activities, literacy enrichment, and creative arts. The facility features secure monitoring systems, nutritional meal programs, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. The center is recognized for its strong parent partnerships, regular progress reporting, and commitment to creating a safe, inclusive environment that fosters independence and curiosity.
Daycare Services:
Imagination Station Early Learning Center
Independent
Imagination Station Early Learning Center provides a comprehensive early childhood program emphasizing hands-on learning and developmental appropriateness. The center features degreed early childhood educators who implement Creative Curriculum with supplemental Montessori-inspired activities. Their approach balances structured learning with child-directed exploration, focusing on cognitive, physical, and social development. The facility includes secure access systems, age-specific playgrounds, and well-equipped classrooms. Parents consistently commend the center's engaging learning environment, qualified staff, and effective communication about child progress and daily activities.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Crane, IN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Crane, Indiana?
In Crane and the surrounding rural areas of Martin County, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than in larger Indiana cities but can vary based on the type of provider. A licensed home daycare typically charges between $120-$160 per week for full-time care. Larger childcare centers in nearby towns like Loogootee or Washington may range from $140-$180 per week. It's important to note that infant care is often at the higher end of this scale due to required lower staff-to-child ratios. Financial assistance is available through the state's Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program for eligible families, and some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Crane is properly licensed and what should I look for in an inspection report?
All licensed childcare providers in Indiana are regulated by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. You can verify a provider's license and view their most recent inspection reports online through the **Child Care Finder** tool on the FSSA website. When reviewing a report for a provider in Crane, pay close attention to any non-compliance issues, particularly related to health and safety (e.g., safe sleep practices for infants, background checks for staff, and physical environment hazards). Due to the rural nature of the area, also check if the provider has a plan for emergencies and if their transportation (if offered) meets state safety standards.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools in Crane that offer care for non-traditional hours, given the local workforce?
Given Crane's proximity to Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane), which operates on various shifts, some local providers accommodate non-standard hours. While options within the town of Crane itself are limited, several licensed home daycares in the area may offer early morning, evening, or occasional weekend care by pre-arrangement. It is crucial to inquire directly with providers about their flexibility. For reliable shift work coverage, parents often network with other NSWC Crane employees to find recommended in-home providers or form small nanny-shares. There are no large 24-hour centers in the immediate area, so planning ahead is essential.
What is the current waitlist situation for daycare openings in the Crane area, and how far in advance should I apply?
Due to the limited number of licensed providers in the small community of Crane, waitlists are common, especially for infant and toddler spots. It is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists **at least 6-9 months** before your needed start date, particularly if you require care for a child under 2 years old. Many popular home-based providers and the centers in neighboring towns have short but active waitlists. When contacting a provider, ask specifically about their waitlist policy, any fees to join it, and how often they update families on their position. Networking through local Facebook groups (e.g., "Crane, Indiana Community") can also provide leads on unexpected openings.
Are there any state-accredited or Paths to QUALITY programs available for young children in or near Crane, Indiana?
Indiana's Paths to QUALITY (PTQ) is a voluntary quality rating and improvement system for childcare providers. While Crane itself has a very small number of providers, you can find PTQ-rated programs in nearby communities such as Loogootee, Washington, and Bloomington. A Level 3 or 4 rating in PTQ indicates a program has met higher standards for learning environment and curriculum. To find these programs, use the "Advanced Search" filter on the state's Child Care Finder website and select the desired PTQ level. Enrolling in a higher-rated program may involve a commute, but it can provide more structured early learning experiences. Some providers also participate in the state's On My Way Pre-K program for eligible 4-year-olds.