The Best Daycare Centers in Mount Summit, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Mount Summit. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Mount Summit
Kiddie Academy of New Castle
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of New Castle provides comprehensive educational childcare with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and creative arts. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Highly qualified teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities in modern, clean classrooms with low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes both indoor and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups, and offers nutritious meals and snacks through their included meal program. Parents particularly praise the consistent communication through their mobile app and the center's focus on social-emotional development.
Daycare Services:
New Castle KinderCare
KinderCare Learning Companies
New Castle KinderCare offers a research-based curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development. The center provides dedicated learning centers for different age groups, with emphasis on literacy, math, science, and creative expression. All lead teachers hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. Safety features include secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive health protocols. The center maintains strong parent partnerships through daily communication logs and regular parent-teacher conferences. Outdoor playgrounds are age-segmented and designed for developmental appropriate physical activity. The center is particularly noted for its inclusive environment and diverse learning materials.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Anderson
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Anderson implements the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. The curriculum emphasizes literacy development, STEAM activities, and social skills through hands-on learning centers. All classrooms are equipped with modern educational technology and developmentally appropriate materials. The facility features secure entry systems, CCTV monitoring, and rigorous safety protocols. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing training in child development best practices. The school offers flexible scheduling options and maintains excellent staff retention rates. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, cleanliness, and the visible progress in their children's development across all learning domains.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Mount Summit, IN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Mount Summit, Indiana?
In Mount Summit and the surrounding Henry County area, parents typically have three main licensed options. First, licensed home-based daycares, which are common in smaller communities, offer a family-like setting with a smaller number of children. Second, there are childcare centers, though you may need to look in nearby larger towns like New Castle for more center-based options. Third, registered ministries provide faith-based care. All providers must be licensed or registered with the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), which sets standards for health, safety, and staff training. You can verify a provider's license and view any history of non-compliance using the FSSA's online Child Care Finder.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Mount Summit, and how can I secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small community like Mount Summit, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant care. It's highly recommended to begin your search during pregnancy or at least 6 months before your needed start date. To secure a spot, contact providers directly to get on their list, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist or registration fee (typically $25-$75). Consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Knightstown or Spiceland. Staying in regular, polite contact with providers every few months can also help keep your family top-of-mind when an opening arises.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Mount Summit?
Costs in Mount Summit are generally lower than state averages but can vary by provider type. For a licensed home daycare, you can expect to pay approximately $120-$160 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. A childcare center in a neighboring town may charge $150-$200 per week. These rates are for basic care; additional fees for meals, supplies, or early/late pick-up may apply. Indiana offers financial assistance through the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program for eligible families, which can be applied to licensed providers. You can apply for this assistance through the Henry County FSSA office.
What specific questions should I ask a potential daycare provider in Mount Summit during a tour?
Beyond general questions, ask specifics relevant to a small-town setting. Inquire about their emergency preparedness plan for severe weather common to Indiana, like tornadoes, and their protocol for power outages. Ask about their policy on local field trips—do they walk to the town park? Clarify their sick policy, as in a small community, alternative backup care options are limited. Verify their licensing status and ask if all staff have current certifications in Pediatric CPR/First Aid and mandatory Indiana-approved safety training. Finally, ask about their communication with parents, especially if they use apps or daily sheets to share updates.
Are there any local resources or programs in Henry County to help parents find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, a key local resource is the **4C of Southern Indiana (Community Coordinated Child Care)**, which serves Henry County. They offer a free referral service to help parents find licensed providers that match their needs. They can also provide guidance on what to look for during a visit and explain Indiana's childcare regulations. Additionally, the **Henry County Early Childhood Coalition** works to improve local childcare quality and access; checking their initiatives can provide insight into community programs. For state-level evaluations, always check the FSSA's online database for a provider's licensing history and any quality ratings they may have through Indiana's Paths to QUALITY™ program.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Mount Summit: