The Best Daycare Centers in Donaldson, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Donaldson. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Donaldson
Plymouth Early Childhood Center
Plymouth Community School Corporation
Plymouth Early Childhood Center is a highly-regarded facility operated by the Plymouth Community School Corporation, serving Donaldson and surrounding communities. The center features a comprehensive developmental curriculum focused on early literacy, social-emotional learning, and school readiness. Certified early childhood educators implement research-based practices in age-appropriate classrooms with low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and nutritional meal programs. Parents consistently praise the center's structured learning environment, experienced staff, and strong communication systems that keep families informed about child development progress.
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Little Lambs Christian Preschool & Daycare
Independent Christian Center
Little Lambs Christian Preschool & Daycare provides faith-based early childhood education with a strong emphasis on character development and academic preparation. The curriculum integrates Christian values with comprehensive early learning standards, including phonics, mathematics readiness, and social skills development. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, age-appropriate learning centers, and outdoor play areas designed for different developmental stages. Staff members hold early childhood certifications and receive ongoing professional development. Parents appreciate the nurturing environment, consistent routines, and the center's commitment to individualized attention for each child's growth and development.
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Growing Kids Learning Center - Plymouth
Growing Kids Learning Centers
Growing Kids Learning Center in Plymouth is part of a respected regional childcare network serving the Donaldson area. The center implements the proprietary "Learning Care System" curriculum that emphasizes literacy, STEM exploration, and creative expression through hands-on learning activities. Facilities include secure entry systems, modern classrooms with developmentally appropriate materials, and outdoor learning environments. The center employs degreed early childhood educators who maintain small group sizes to ensure personalized attention. Notable features include comprehensive safety protocols, regular developmental assessments, and family engagement programs that have earned strong parent satisfaction ratings throughout the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Donaldson, IN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Donaldson, Indiana?
In Donaldson and the surrounding Marshall County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of provider. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $150 to $225 per week for an infant or toddler. In-home licensed family childcare homes may be slightly less, often ranging from $120 to $180 per week. These rates are generally lower than in larger Indiana cities like South Bend or Indianapolis. It's important to note that many providers in this area include meals and basic supplies in their weekly rate. We recommend contacting providers directly for their most current pricing, as spots can be limited and rates may adjust.
How can I verify that a daycare provider in Donaldson is properly licensed and has a good record?
All licensed childcare providers in Donaldson, 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 use the state's official "Child Care Finder" website to search for licensed providers in the 46513 zip code and view their licensing status, capacity, and any reported violations. Additionally, you can contact the local licensing consultant for the North Central region. We also strongly recommend visiting any potential daycare in person, asking for references from current parents, and checking with the Marshall County Health Department for their most recent inspection reports on the facility.
Are there any daycare facilities in Donaldson that offer care for non-traditional hours, like evenings or weekends?
Finding non-traditional hour care in a smaller community like Donaldson can be challenging, as most licensed centers and homes operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best options for evening or weekend care in the area are likely to be: 1) Seeking an in-home family childcare provider who may offer more flexible hours to a small number of children, 2) Exploring care options in nearby larger towns like Plymouth (about 15 minutes away), which may have centers with extended hours, or 3) Arranging a nanny share with other local families. We recommend clearly stating your schedule needs when you first contact any provider, as this is a common limitation in rural areas.
What is the current waitlist situation for daycare centers in Donaldson, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of dedicated daycare centers in Donaldson itself, waitlists are common, especially for infant care. It is not unusual for popular providers to have a waitlist of 3 to 9 months. We advise parents to begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool-age openings, you may have more flexibility, but still plan to start looking at least 4-6 months before you need care. Be proactive: call every licensed provider, ask to be placed on their list (some may charge a small fee), and check back monthly for updates, as situations can change.
Are there any state or local programs in Marshall County that can help with daycare costs for families in Donaldson?
Yes, eligible families in Donaldson can apply for the Indiana Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program. This state program, administered locally, provides financial assistance to low and moderate-income families to help pay for licensed childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or education requirements. You can apply online through the Indiana FSSA website or get assistance from the Marshall County Community Resource Center. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly. For families with children with special needs, additional resources and funding may be available through First Steps of Indiana.