The Best Daycare Centers in Fillmore, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fillmore. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fillmore
Fillmore Head Start
Community Action Program of Western Indiana
Fillmore Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education with a focus on school readiness for children from low-income families. The program emphasizes cognitive, social, and emotional development through research-based curriculum. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices with small class sizes and individualized attention. The center offers health and nutrition services, family engagement programs, and developmental screenings. Strong parent-teacher partnerships and community involvement make this a trusted educational foundation for young learners in the Fillmore area.
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Sunshine Station Early Learning Center
Independent
Located just 8 miles from Fillmore in Greencastle, Sunshine Station offers a comprehensive early learning program with a play-based curriculum that incorporates STEM activities and literacy development. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood certifications, secure entry systems, and modern facilities with age-appropriate learning environments. Their program includes nutritious meals, outdoor play areas, and technology-integrated learning. Parent communication is emphasized through daily reports and regular conferences, with flexible scheduling options available for working families.
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YMCA of Clay County Preschool
YMCA of the USA
Serving the Fillmore area from nearby Brazil (approximately 12 miles away), the YMCA Preschool focuses on character development and school readiness through their values-based curriculum. The program emphasizes social-emotional learning, literacy development, and physical activity in a nurturing environment. Certified early childhood educators maintain low student-teacher ratios and implement developmental assessments. The facility includes secure classrooms, indoor gross motor spaces, and structured outdoor play areas. Financial assistance and sliding scale fees make quality early education accessible to diverse families in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fillmore, IN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Fillmore, Indiana, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Fillmore, 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 health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and ongoing training. To verify a facility's license and compliance history, you can use the State of Indiana's online **Child Care Finder** tool. This resource allows you to search for providers in Putnam County, view their license status, and see any past non-compliance reports. It's a crucial first step for any parent in the Fillmore area to ensure their child is in a safe, state-approved environment.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in and around Fillmore, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the rural nature of Putnam County and limited high-quality options, waitlists for established daycare centers in Fillmore and nearby towns like Greencastle or Cloverdale can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant care. To improve your chances, it's recommended to begin your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. Be proactive by contacting providers directly, scheduling tours, and asking about their specific enrollment timelines. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed in-home daycare providers in the Fillmore area, as they may have more immediate availability and offer a smaller, home-like setting.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Fillmore, Indiana?
Childcare costs in Fillmore and rural Putnam County are generally lower than the state average but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately **$130 to $170 per week** for full-time toddler care. Infant care is typically more expensive, ranging from **$150 to $190 per week**. Licensed family home daycares may offer slightly lower rates, often between **$110 and $150 per week**. It's important to note that these are estimates, and prices can fluctuate. We recommend contacting providers directly for their current rates. Families with lower incomes may qualify for assistance through Indiana's **Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program**.
Are there any state-funded or community-based preschool programs available for 3- and 4-year-olds in Fillmore?
While Fillmore itself is a small community, there are important state-funded preschool options available for eligible families in the area. The primary program is **On My Way Pre-K**, Indiana's income-based pre-kindergarten program. Eligible 4-year-olds in Putnam County can use this grant to attend a high-quality participating preschool, which may be located in neighboring communities like Greencastle. Additionally, the **South Putnam Community School Corporation** may offer developmental preschool services for children with identified needs. For general community-based options, many local daycare centers in the region offer preschool curricula. It's best to contact the Putnam County Community Foundation or the school corporation directly for the most current information on accessible programs.
What are some key questions to ask during a tour of a daycare in Fillmore, given the specific considerations of a rural area?
When touring a daycare in Fillmore, beyond standard questions about curriculum and safety, ask location-specific questions. **Emergency Preparedness:** Inquire about their plan for severe weather common to Indiana and protocols for medical emergencies, given the potential distance to a major hospital. **Staffing Consistency:** Ask about staff tenure and how they handle coverage if a provider is sick, as rural areas can have smaller staffing pools. **Food & Supplies:** Determine if meals are provided or if you need to pack them, and ask about their plan for supply chain issues affecting snacks or essentials. **Transportation & Field Trips:** If offered, understand their vehicle safety standards and where local field trips might go (e.g., a local farm, Greencastle library). Finally, ask for references from other local parents to get a community perspective on the provider's reliability and quality.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Fillmore: