The Best Daycare Centers in Highland, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Highland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Highland
Kiddie Academy of Highland
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Highland offers a comprehensive Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. The academy emphasizes hands-on learning through structured play and developmentally appropriate activities, with daily communication to parents about their child's progress and milestones.
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The Learning Experience - Highland
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Highland provides a proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, foreign language, manners, and fitness. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including coded entry and surveillance cameras. Certified early childhood educators lead small group instruction with a focus on school readiness. The facility includes dedicated learning centers, indoor gymnasium, and outdoor play areas. Parents receive regular updates through the center's mobile app with photos and developmental reports.
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Bright Horizons at St. Catherine Hospital
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Located at St. Catherine Hospital in nearby East Chicago, this Bright Horizons center serves families throughout Northwest Indiana including Highland. The center implements the World at Their Fingers® curriculum emphasizing literacy, math, science, and creative arts. Features include highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education, enhanced health and safety protocols, and nutritious meal programs. The facility offers spacious classrooms, outdoor learning environments, and comprehensive readiness programs for kindergarten transition. Emergency backup care available for working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Highland, IN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Highland, Indiana, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Highland, Indiana, all childcare centers and home-based providers caring for more than five unrelated children must be licensed by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), Division of Family Resources. The licensing process involves rigorous health and safety inspections, background checks for all staff, and adherence to staff-to-child ratios and training requirements. To verify a facility's compliance and view its licensing history, including any past violations, you can use the State of Indiana's **Child Care Finder** online database. This tool is essential for parents to research providers in the Highland area and ensure they meet state-mandated standards for safety and quality.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Highland, IN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
The average cost for full-time infant daycare in Highland typically ranges from **$175 to $250 per week**, depending on the type of facility (center-based vs. home-based), its amenities, and curriculum. Prices in Lake County are generally in line with or slightly below the state average. For financial assistance, Indiana's **Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program** is a primary resource for eligible families based on income, work, or school requirements. You can apply through the Lake County Division of Family Resources office. Additionally, some local Highland providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Highland, and when should I start looking?
For the most sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Highland, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It is not uncommon for popular providers to have waitlists of **6 to 12 months or more**. Given this, it is highly recommended that expecting parents begin researching and touring facilities **during their second trimester** to secure a spot. Some centers in the area even recommend getting on a waitlist as soon as you know you are pregnant. For toddler or preschool-age openings, the wait may be shorter, but starting your search at least 3-4 months in advance is still advisable.
Are there any unique early childhood programs or focuses offered by daycares in Highland compared to surrounding towns?
Yes, several Highland daycare centers offer specialized programs that leverage local community resources. Some providers have established partnerships with the **Highland Public Library** for regular storytime visits and early literacy initiatives. Others may emphasize outdoor and nature-based learning, utilizing local parks like Wicker Memorial Park. Furthermore, given Highland's proximity to major transportation routes and diverse industries, some centers incorporate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) concepts into their preschool curricula more prominently. It's worth asking providers about any specific partnerships or curricular focuses that connect children to the local Highland community.
What should I look for during a tour of a potential daycare in Highland, and are there any local red flags?
During a tour, observe the cleanliness, safety (secured entrances, covered outlets, safe sleep practices for infants), and the engagement between staff and children. Ask about staff turnover rates—high turnover can be a red flag. In Highland specifically, also inquire about their **emergency preparedness plans** for severe weather common to Northwest Indiana. A reputable center should have a clear plan for tornado warnings. Check for proper Indiana state licensing displayed and ask for their most recent licensing report. A major local red flag would be a provider being unable or unwilling to show you this documentation. Trust your instincts about the overall environment and how your questions are received.