The Best Daycare Centers in Lagro, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lagro. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lagro
The Goddard School of Wabash
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Wabash offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts while emphasizing social-emotional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers are highly qualified with ongoing professional development, and the school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. Parents appreciate the daily communication through the proprietary mobile app and the comprehensive safety protocols.
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The Learning Garden
Independent
The Learning Garden provides a nurturing, nature-inspired environment that emphasizes hands-on learning and outdoor exploration. Their curriculum incorporates Reggio Emilia-inspired approaches with structured academic preparation. The center features secure facilities with coded entry, age-specific playgrounds, and indoor gross motor areas. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing training in child development and safety. The program includes nutritious meal service, regular developmental assessments, and strong parent-teacher partnerships. Families consistently praise the warm, family-like atmosphere and the individualized attention each child receives.
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Sunshine Station Early Learning Center
Independent
Sunshine Station offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a strong emphasis on creative arts and STEM education. Their research-based curriculum includes daily literacy activities, mathematics exploration, and science discovery centers. The facility features secure access systems, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and extensive outdoor learning environments. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains excellent staff retention. The program includes family-style meals, regular progress reports, and parent involvement opportunities. The center is known for its inclusive environment and strong community connections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lagro, IN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Lagro, Indiana?
In Lagro and the surrounding Wabash County area, your primary licensed options are licensed home daycares and licensed childcare centers. Given Lagro's small-town setting, licensed family home providers are particularly common. These are typically run out of a caregiver's residence and offer a smaller, home-like environment. For center-based care, parents often look to nearby larger towns like Wabash (about 10 minutes away) or Peru, which have facilities like the YMCA or church-affiliated preschools. All licensed providers in Indiana are regulated by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) and must meet state standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, and training. You can search for all licensed options in the area using the FSSA's "Child Care Finder" online tool.
How much does full-time daycare typically cost in the Lagro area, and are there any financial assistance programs?
Costs in Lagro and Wabash County are generally lower than state averages but vary by type of care. A licensed home daycare in Lagro may charge between $120-$160 per week for an infant/toddler. Center-based care in nearby Wabash can range from $140-$200 per week. 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 apply through the local Wabash County office of the Division of Family Resources. Additionally, some local employers or the Wabash County YMCA may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships, so it's worth inquiring directly.
Are waitlists common for daycare spots in Lagro, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small community like Lagro, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care which has stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 6-9 months before you need care, and if you are expecting, to start contacting providers during your second trimester. Popular local home providers often have a consistent clientele and may only have openings when a family moves away or a child ages out. Expanding your search to include providers in North Manchester, Wabash, and even Peru can increase your options, though you'll need to factor in commute time.
What specific state licensing requirements and safety standards should I verify when touring a daycare in Indiana?
Any licensed provider in Indiana must meet FSSA standards. Key items to verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 12 months), **Background Checks** for all staff, **Health and Safety Training** in CPR, first aid, and safe sleep for infants, and **Annual Licensing Inspections**. You have the right to ask to see the provider's current license and their most recent inspection report, which notes any violations. For home daycares in Lagro, also ask about their emergency evacuation plan, safe storage of medications/cleaning supplies, and how they secure the home environment (e.g., pool fencing, gated stairs). The FSSA website allows you to look up a provider's compliance history.
What are some local resources or networks in Wabash County to help me find and evaluate childcare near Lagro?
Your best local resource is the **Wabash County Early Childhood Coalition**. They often maintain connections with providers and can offer guidance. The **Wabash County YMCA** is a hub for childcare information and may run preschool programs. For official searches, use the state's **Child Care Finder** (https://www.in.gov/fssa/carefinder/) and filter by Lagro's ZIP code (46947) and Wabash County. Don't underestimate local networks: ask for recommendations at the Lagro Community Church, the Lagro Town Hall, or on community Facebook pages like "Wabash County Chat." Visiting the Wabash County Public Library can also provide leads, as they may have bulletin boards with provider advertisements.