The Best Daycare Centers in Montgomery, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Montgomery. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Montgomery
Imagination Station Early Learning Center
Independent
Imagination Station Early Learning Center serves the Montgomery area from nearby Washington and has earned exceptional ratings for its comprehensive educational approach. The center utilizes Creative Curriculum with hands-on learning experiences that promote cognitive, social, and emotional development. Their qualified teachers maintain low student-teacher ratios and hold degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. What sets them apart is their strong emphasis on literacy development, with daily reading programs and a well-stocked classroom library. They also offer nutritious meal programs and maintain excellent communication with parents through daily reports and a dedicated app.
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Little Blessings Child Care & Preschool
Independent
Little Blessings provides high-quality childcare services to families in the Montgomery region with a faith-based approach that integrates Christian values into daily learning activities. Their curriculum focuses on kindergarten readiness through structured academic preparation combined with play-based learning. The center employs experienced teachers with CPR and First Aid certifications, and maintains excellent safety protocols including secure check-in systems and regular safety drills. The facility features separate age-appropriate classrooms, a large outdoor playground, and a gymnasium for indoor physical activities. Parents consistently praise their warm, nurturing environment and the individualized attention each child receives. Their strong community involvement and family events create a supportive network for both children and parents.
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Kiddie Academy of Jasper
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Jasper is part of a nationally recognized educational childcare chain that serves the broader Montgomery area with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum. This research-based approach focuses on character development, STEM education, and social-emotional learning through purposeful play and guided activities. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and surveillance cameras, along with modern classrooms equipped with interactive technology. Their highly qualified staff includes teachers with bachelor's degrees in education and ongoing professional development. The academy stands out for its comprehensive enrichment programs including music, Spanish language exposure, and physical fitness activities. Parents appreciate the transparent communication through their mobile app and the center's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and safety.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Montgomery, IN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Montgomery, Indiana, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Montgomery, Indiana, all child care ministries, centers, and family child care homes must be licensed by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff training. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any non-compliance history by using the "Child Care Finder" tool on the FSSA website. This is a crucial first step for Montgomery parents, as it provides transparency and helps ensure your child is in a regulated environment.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Montgomery, and are there financial assistance programs available locally?
In Montgomery and the surrounding Daviess County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $130 to $170 per week, while toddler care may cost between $120 and $150 per week. These rates can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and whether meals are provided. 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 can apply through the Daviess County Division of Family Resources office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Montgomery, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited capacity in a smaller community like Montgomery, waitlists for infant care at licensed centers can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months. For toddler and preschool slots, waitlists may be shorter, around 1-4 months. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move start their search during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-8 months before care is needed. Contacting providers directly to tour facilities and get on multiple waitlists is a common strategy. Being flexible with your start date can also improve your chances of securing a spot sooner.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Montgomery, IN, beyond traditional daycare centers?
Montgomery offers a mix of childcare options to suit different family needs. These include licensed child care centers (often associated with churches or schools), licensed family child care homes (smaller, home-based settings), and registered child care ministries. Given the rural nature of the area, family child care homes are a popular and often more flexible choice, sometimes offering extended hours to accommodate agricultural or shift-work schedules. There are also part-time preschool programs for ages 3-5, often run by local churches or the North Daviess Community School Corporation. For school-age children, the school district provides before and after-school care programs.
Are there any local resources or networks in Montgomery to help parents find and evaluate childcare providers?
Yes, a key local resource is the **Southwest Indiana Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R)**, which serves Daviess County. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed and registered providers in the Montgomery area based on your specific needs (hours, location, child's age). Their counselors can also help you understand what to look for during a visit and explain state regulations. Additionally, connecting with other parents through community hubs like the Montgomery Memorial Public Library, local churches, or Facebook community groups (e.g., "Montgomery, Indiana Community Page") can provide valuable word-of-mouth recommendations and insights into provider reputations.
Childcare Insights for Montgomery
Finding the right care for your baby is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make as a parent. If you’re searching for “baby daycare near me” in Montgomery, Indiana, you’re likely looking for a place that feels like a second home—a nurturing environment where your little one can safely grow and explore. The good news is that Montgomery and the surrounding Daviess County area offer several wonderful options, each with its own unique approach to early childhood development. The key is finding the one that aligns perfectly with your family’s needs and values.
When beginning your search in Montgomery, consider starting with local recommendations. Talk to other parents at the park, your pediatrician’s office, or community hubs like the Montgomery Community Center. Personal experiences can provide invaluable insights you won’t find online. It’s also wise to expand your search slightly to include nearby towns like Washington or Odon, as many families in our rural community find excellent care within a short, manageable drive. Checking with local churches can also be fruitful, as several in the area host highly-regarded daycare programs that emphasize a family-oriented atmosphere.
Once you have a list of potential daycares, scheduling a visit is crucial. Pay close attention to the caregiver-to-infant ratio; for babies, a low ratio is essential for individualized attention and safety. Observe how the staff interacts with the infants—are they engaged, speaking warmly, and responding promptly to cues? A quality daycare in Montgomery will have a clear plan for your baby’s day, including tummy time, reading, sensory play, and, of course, plenty of cuddles. Don’t hesitate to ask about their policies on feeding, napping, and how they communicate with parents throughout the day. Many local providers use apps to send photos and updates, which can be a great comfort when you’re at work.
Remember to verify that any facility you’re considering is licensed by the State of Indiana and has up-to-date health and safety certifications. This is a non-negotiable foundation for your peace of mind. Furthermore, consider the practicalities of location. Given our Indiana weather, with its snowy winters and occasional severe storms, you’ll want a daycare that has a clear inclement weather policy and is situated on a route that is reliably maintained by county roads.
Finally, trust your instincts. The right daycare in Montgomery will not only meet all the practical checkboxes but will also give you a genuine feeling of trust and warmth. You should feel welcomed, your questions should be answered patiently, and you should be able to picture your baby thriving there. Taking the time to find this perfect fit is an investment in your child’s happiness and your own serenity, allowing you to navigate your workday knowing your little one is in caring, capable hands right here in our own community.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Montgomery: