The Best Daycare Centers in Kentland, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Kentland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Kentland
Little Lambs Learning Center
Independent
Little Lambs Learning Center is a highly-regarded Christian-based childcare facility serving Kentland and surrounding communities. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program that combines faith-based learning with academic preparation. The center features a structured curriculum focused on developmental milestones, social-emotional learning, and kindergarten readiness. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios, and the facility includes secure indoor learning environments and safe outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, experienced staff, and strong communication from the center. The program includes age-appropriate activities, nutritious meals, and extended care options for working families.
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Imagination Station Childcare & Preschool
Independent
Imagination Station serves families throughout Jasper County, including Kentland residents, with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes creativity and exploration. The center features a comprehensive curriculum that balances structured learning with child-directed activities, focusing on cognitive, physical, and social development. Their qualified educators hold early childhood certifications and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes modern security systems, age-specific classrooms, and well-equipped outdoor play spaces. Parents highlight the center's engaging learning environment, experienced teaching staff, and excellent communication about their child's progress and daily activities.
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Kid's World Learning Center
Independent
Kid's World Learning Center provides high-quality early childhood education to families in the greater Jasper County area, including Kentland. The center offers a research-based curriculum that prepares children for academic success while fostering social skills and emotional intelligence. Their program includes STEAM activities, literacy development, and hands-on learning experiences. The facility maintains excellent safety protocols, including secure entry systems and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Teachers are trained in early childhood development and maintain small class sizes for personalized attention. Parents consistently rate the center highly for its professional staff, clean facilities, and strong educational foundation that prepares children for elementary school.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Kentland, IN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Kentland, Indiana, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Kentland and throughout Indiana, childcare providers must be licensed by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), specifically the Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. This includes family childcare homes (caring for up to 12 children) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a provider's license and view any past violations, you can use the state's official "Child Care Finder" website. It's highly recommended to cross-reference this online tool and consider scheduling a visit to the facility in person to ask for their most recent licensing report.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Kentland, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Kentland and the surrounding Newton County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week, while toddler care may be slightly lower, around $130 to $200 per week. Costs can vary based on the type of facility (center vs. home-based), hours, and included services like meals. For financial assistance, Indiana's Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program is the primary resource for eligible families. You can apply through the local Division of Family Resources office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Kentland, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed childcare facilities in a smaller community like Kentland, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. It's not unusual for popular centers or highly-regarded home providers to have waitlists of 3 to 9 months. We strongly advise parents to begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or at least 6 months before your needed start date. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their current waitlist length, any fees to hold a spot, and how often they update families on their position.
Are there any unique or specialized childcare programs available in Kentland, such as those for non-traditional hours or preschool curriculum?
Given Kentland's size, specialized options are more limited than in larger cities, but they do exist. Some in-home providers may offer more flexible hours for parents working shifts in local agriculture, manufacturing, or healthcare. For preschool curriculum, several providers incorporate early learning standards into their daycare programs. The Kentland Public Library also offers early literacy programs that can supplement childcare. For more structured preschool, some parents look at options in nearby larger towns like Rensselaer or Lafayette. It's best to ask providers directly about their daily schedule, educational philosophy, and any partnerships with programs like Paths to QUALITY™, Indiana's voluntary quality rating system.
What should I look for and ask during a tour of a potential daycare in Kentland?
A tour is crucial. First, observe the environment: Is it clean, safe, and well-organized? Do the children seem engaged and happy? Ask specific questions about staff qualifications, turnover rates, and the adult-to-child ratio. Inquire about daily routines, meal provisions, nap policies, and their sick child policy. Given Kentland's rural setting, ask about their outdoor play area and safety protocols. Also, ask for references from current parents. Finally, confirm their licensing status and their level in the Paths to QUALITY™ system (Level 1-4), as this indicates a commitment to exceeding minimum state standards. Trust your instincts about the caregiver's warmth and communication style.