The Best Daycare Centers in Guilford, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Guilford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Guilford
KinderCare Learning Center at Lawrenceburg
KinderCare Education
KinderCare at Lawrenceburg offers a comprehensive early childhood education program focused on play-based learning and developmental milestones. The center features a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social skills, with age-appropriate activities for each stage. Staff includes qualified teachers with CPR and First Aid certifications, and low teacher-to-child ratios ensure personalized attention. Safety is prioritized with secured entry systems, regular health checks, and nutritious meal programs. The facility includes indoor and outdoor play areas designed to encourage physical activity and creativity. Parent communication is maintained through daily updates and regular conferences, contributing to high satisfaction ratings in the Guilford service area.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Lawrenceburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lawrenceburg is renowned for its F.L.E.X. Learning Program, which balances academic readiness with social-emotional development through play-based and structured activities. The curriculum includes language arts, STEM, and creative arts, tailored to individual learning styles. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing training, maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios for optimal engagement. The center emphasizes safety with keypad entry, sanitization protocols, and secure outdoor playgrounds. Parents appreciate the open communication and involvement opportunities, including real-time updates via a mobile app. The facility serves Guilford families with a focus on inclusivity and holistic child development.
Daycare Services:
Childtime of Lawrenceburg
Childtime Learning Centers
Childtime of Lawrenceburg provides a well-rounded early education experience with a curriculum that integrates cognitive, social, and physical development through hands-on learning and technology-enhanced activities. The center offers age-specific programs, including infant sign language and preschool prep, led by credentialed teachers trained in safety and developmental best practices. Safety measures include secured facilities, routine drills, and health screenings, while nutritious meals and snacks support overall wellness. The environment features stimulating classrooms and outdoor play spaces that encourage exploration. With a strong track record of parent satisfaction, Childtime serves the Guilford community with flexible scheduling and a commitment to fostering lifelong learners.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Guilford, IN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Guilford, Indiana, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Guilford, 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. They must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety protocols, and ongoing training. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the state's official "Child Care Finder" tool online. This resource allows you to search for providers in the Guilford area (or by zip code 47022) and view their license status, any recent inspection reports, and substantiated complaints. 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 and toddler daycare in Guilford, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Guilford and surrounding Dearborn County area, average costs for full-time daycare can vary. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay approximately $160 to $220 per week. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $140 to $190 per week. These rates are generally lower than in larger Indiana metros like Indianapolis. For financial assistance, Indiana's Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work/school requirements. You can apply through the local county office of the Division of Family Resources. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Guilford, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Guilford, popular and highly-rated daycare centers often have limited capacity and can have waitlists, especially for infants. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a return to work begin their search and get on waitlists **6 to 12 months in advance**. For toddler or preschool-age openings, a 3-6 month lead time is more common but not guaranteed. When contacting providers, be sure to ask about their specific waitlist process, any deposit requirements to hold a spot, and how often they update families on their position.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Guilford—centers, home-based daycares, or preschools?
Guilford, being a smaller unincorporated community, offers a mix, but licensed family childcare homes are a very common and valued option. These home-based settings often provide a smaller, more family-like environment and can be more flexible with hours, which is beneficial for parents with non-traditional schedules. There are also several licensed childcare centers and faith-based preschool programs in nearby communities like Aurora and Lawrenceburg that Guilford residents frequently use. For school-age children, the local Sunman-Dearborn Community School Corporation may offer before and after-school care at elementary schools. Exploring options in the broader 47022 zip code is often necessary.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare facility in Guilford, given the local rural setting?
During a tour, beyond universal checks for cleanliness and safety, consider factors specific to the area. Ask about their emergency preparedness plans for severe weather common to Southeastern Indiana, such as tornadoes, and their protocol for power outages. Inquire about outdoor play areas—are they secure and well-maintained, given the potential for more wildlife or rural traffic? For centers that may be on well water, ask about their water safety testing. Also, discuss their policy on farm or animal exposures if the facility is near agricultural land. Finally, gauge the community feel; in a small town, a provider's long-term reputation and connections to local families are significant indicators of quality and trust.