The Best Daycare Centers in Kennard, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Kennard. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Kennard
KinderCare Learning Center - New Castle
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare in New Castle offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, state-licensed educators with ongoing training, and secure facilities with keypad entry and monitored play areas. Parents praise the structured daily activities, nutritious meal programs, and regular communication through mobile apps. The center stands out for its inclusive environment and emphasis on school readiness through hands-on learning and developmental milestones tracking.
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The Goddard School - Muncie
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Muncie is renowned for its play-based FLEX Learning Program that integrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) into daily activities. The center employs degreed teachers with early childhood certifications and maintains high safety standards with secure classrooms and outdoor playgrounds. Highlights include a focus on individualized learning plans, cultural diversity, and parent involvement through regular updates and events. The school's modern facilities, enriched with learning materials and technology, along with flexible scheduling options, make it a top choice for families in the Kennard area.
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Little Blessings Child Care Center
Independent
Little Blessings Child Care Center provides a nurturing, faith-based environment with a curriculum that blends academic readiness and character development. The center features experienced staff with CPR and first aid certifications, small class sizes, and a safe, clean facility with age-appropriate indoor and outdoor play areas. Parents value the strong community feel, homemade nutritious meals, and emphasis on social skills and creativity through art, music, and storytime. The center's long-standing reputation and personalized care for each child make it a trusted option for Kennard residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Kennard, IN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Kennard, Indiana?
In Kennard and the surrounding Henry County area, your primary licensed options are licensed home daycares and licensed childcare centers. Licensed home daycares are often run by a provider in their residence and can offer a smaller, family-like setting, which is common in smaller communities like Kennard. Licensed centers are less common directly in Kennard but can be found in nearby larger towns like New Castle. All licensed providers in Indiana are regulated by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) and must meet state standards for health, safety, staff training, and child-to-staff ratios. Due to Kennard's size, many families also utilize legally unlicensed "registered ministries" or informal care arrangements with neighbors or family, but these are not subject to the same state oversight.
How can I check the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Kennard?
The State of Indiana provides an excellent, free online tool called "Child Care Finder" managed by the FSSA. You can search for any licensed provider in Kennard or Indiana by name, city, or zip code. This database shows the provider's current license status, capacity, ages served, and, crucially, their recent inspection reports and any cited violations. It's highly recommended to review these reports before choosing a provider. You can also contact the local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for Region 6, which serves Henry County, for personalized assistance in vetting local options.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Kennard area?
Costs in Kennard tend to be more affordable than in major Indiana metros but can vary. For a licensed home daycare, you might expect to pay between $120 to $160 per week for full-time infant care. For a childcare center in a nearby town like New Castle, weekly rates are typically higher, ranging from $150 to $200. These are estimates, and prices can depend on the provider's amenities, meal provisions, and curriculum. It's important to ask exactly what is included (diapers, wipes, formula, meals). Financial assistance may be available through the state's Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program for eligible families.
Are waitlists common for daycare spots in Kennard, and how far in advance should I start looking?
While not as extreme as in large cities, waitlists for the most sought-after licensed providers in and around Kennard are common, especially for infant care slots which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. For a licensed home daycare with a good reputation in the community, there may only be 1-2 infant spots available at a time. It is strongly advised to begin your search at least 3-6 months before your needed start date. Contact providers directly to inquire about current availability and their waitlist process. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances of securing a spot.
What local resources or programs are available to help Kennard parents find and pay for quality childcare?
The key local resource is **Choices Network**, the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for this region. They offer free referrals to licensed providers in Henry County, guidance on what to look for in quality care, and information on the **CCDF voucher program** for income-eligible families to help subsidize costs. You can contact them online or by phone. Additionally, many employers in the region, including those in manufacturing and healthcare in nearby New Castle, may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). It's also worth checking with the Kennard Town Hall or the Henry County Community Foundation for any local scholarship or support programs for families.