The Best Daycare Centers in Hazleton, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hazleton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hazleton
Kid's World Childcare & Learning Center
Kid's World Childcare
Kid's World Childcare & Learning Center is a highly-regarded facility located approximately 15 miles from Hazleton, serving the broader Gibson County area. The center employs a comprehensive early childhood education curriculum that emphasizes literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional development. All lead teachers hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with hands-on learning centers. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, structured daily routines, and excellent communication about child development progress. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks through their USDA-approved food program.
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Imagination Station Early Learning Center
Imagination Station
Imagination Station Early Learning Center serves families throughout Gibson County, including the Hazleton area, with a play-based learning approach that incorporates STEM activities and creative arts. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs educators with degrees in early childhood education. Their curriculum focuses on school readiness through structured learning activities, literacy development, and social skills building. The facility includes secure classrooms, outdoor play areas with safety surfacing, and dedicated spaces for different age groups. The center is known for its strong parent-teacher partnerships, regular developmental assessments, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure check-in systems and emergency preparedness training.
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ABC Learning Center
ABC Learning Center
ABC Learning Center, located approximately 25 miles from Hazleton in Vincennes, serves families throughout the southwestern Indiana region with a comprehensive early childhood program. The center utilizes a balanced curriculum that combines academic preparation with social development and creative expression. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices and maintain detailed portfolios tracking each child's progress. The facility features secure access control, modern learning materials, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. The center is particularly noted for its strong literacy program, inclusive environment, and commitment to providing individualized attention to each child's learning needs and developmental milestones.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hazleton, IN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Hazleton, Indiana, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Indiana, all childcare providers caring for more than five unrelated children must be licensed by the state's Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. This includes homes, centers, and ministries in Hazleton. Licensed providers must meet standards for staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, health and safety, and facility requirements. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any substantiated complaints through the Indiana FSSA's online Child Care Finder portal. It's a critical first step to ensure any facility you're considering operates legally and meets baseline safety standards.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hazleton, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Hazleton area and surrounding Gibson County, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $150 to $200 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $130 to $180 per week. These costs can vary based on the type of facility (home-based vs. center) and the specific services offered. For financial assistance, Indiana's Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance. You can apply through the Gibson County office of the Indiana FSSA. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Hazleton, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Hazleton, waitlists for infant care at licensed centers or highly-regarded home providers can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months. For toddler and preschool spots, waitlists may be shorter but can still be several months long. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. Be proactive in contacting providers in Hazleton and neighboring towns like Princeton or Owensville to expand your options.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically in Hazleton, IN?
Parents in Hazleton generally have three primary types of licensed childcare to consider. First, licensed childcare centers, which may be part of a local church or independent business, offer structured programs in a dedicated facility. Second, licensed family childcare homes, where care is provided in a provider's residence, often offering a smaller, home-like setting. Third, registered ministries, which are exempt from some state licensing rules but must meet basic health and safety standards. Given Hazleton's size, the number of providers is limited, so many families also look at options in the larger nearby community of Princeton, which is about a 15-minute drive away and offers more centers.
Are there any state-funded pre-kindergarten (Pre-K) programs available for 4-year-olds in Hazleton?
Hazleton itself is a very small town and does not host a standalone state-funded Pre-K program. However, eligible 4-year-olds in Gibson County, including Hazleton residents, may access the federal Head Start program or Indiana's On My Way Pre-K program. These programs have income and other eligibility requirements. The closest service providers are typically located in Princeton, the county seat. You should contact the Gibson County Head Start program or apply for On My Way Pre-K through the state portal to determine your child's eligibility and learn about potential transportation options or classroom locations.