The Best Daycare Centers in Marshall, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Marshall. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Marshall
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare Learning Center in Terre Haute provides a nationally recognized, play-based curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, math, and science skills. Staffed by qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, the center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and rigorous safety protocols, including secure entry systems and regular safety drills. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and nutritional meal programs. Parent satisfaction is high due to daily communication updates, milestone tracking, and flexible scheduling options, making it a trusted choice for families in the Marshall area.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Terre Haute offers the F.L.EX.® Learning Program, which blends academic readiness with creative play and social skills development. Certified teachers with ongoing training create a nurturing environment, supported by low student-to-teacher ratios and modern safety measures like biometric entry and clean facilities. The curriculum includes STEAM activities, language arts, and physical education, with indoor and outdoor play spaces. High parent ratings reflect strong communication through daily reports, parent-teacher conferences, and community events, ensuring comprehensive care for children from infancy through pre-K.
Daycare Services:
Parke County Learning Center
Parke County Community Child Care
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Marshall, IN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Marshall, Indiana, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Marshall, Indiana, all childcare centers and licensed family daycare homes must be regulated by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), specifically the Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. Providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, background checks, and staff training. To verify a facility's license, complaint history, and inspection reports, you can use the state's official online tool called "Child Care Finder" on the FSSA website. Simply entering "Marshall, IN" will show you all licensed options in the area along with their current status. It's a crucial first step to ensure you're considering a legally compliant and monitored provider.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Marshall, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Marshall and the surrounding rural areas of Indiana, 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. These costs can vary based on the type of facility (center vs. home-based) 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 requirements. You can apply through the local Marshall County office of the Division of Family Resources. Additionally, some local churches or community organizations may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Marshall, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to the limited number of childcare centers in a smaller community like Marshall, waitlists for infants and toddlers at the most sought-after providers can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a return to work begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 9-12 months in advance of needing care. Don't hesitate to get on multiple lists, as spots can open unpredictably. Be sure to ask each center about their specific waitlist policy, including any fees to hold a spot and how often you need to check in to remain active on the list.
Are there any unique childcare options in Marshall, such as part-time, drop-in, or care for non-traditional hours?
Given Marshall's size, traditional Monday-Friday, 6 AM to 6 PM center-based care is most common. However, options for non-traditional schedules are limited but do exist. Some licensed family childcare homes may offer more flexible part-time arrangements or care for shift workers. For occasional drop-in care, your best bet is to look at providers in larger nearby towns like Plymouth. It's important to inquire directly with local home providers about their flexibility. For parents working in healthcare or manufacturing with rotating shifts, networking with other local parents through community Facebook groups can sometimes lead to recommendations for caregivers who accommodate such hours.
What should I look for during a daycare tour specific to facilities in a rural area like Marshall?
When touring a daycare in Marshall, pay close attention to factors that can be particular to rural settings. First, inquire about their emergency preparedness plan for severe weather common to Indiana (like tornadoes) and their protocol for power outages, including backup heating/cooling. Ask about their outdoor play area—is it secure from nearby agricultural or rural traffic? For centers that may have well water, verify they test it regularly for safety. Also, discuss their policy on farm or animal exposure if the facility is near livestock, to understand hygiene practices. Finally, given the community's size, ask about staff longevity; low turnover often indicates a stable, quality environment where your child can form secure attachments.