The Best Daycare Centers in New Washington, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in New Washington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in New Washington
The Goddard School of Jeffersonville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School offers a premier early childhood education program with FLEX Learning Program that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and physical development with low student-to-teacher ratios. Features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, secured classrooms, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated art and music spaces.
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Kids Connection Early Learning Center
Kids Connection LLC
Family-owned early learning center providing comprehensive childcare services with a focus on individualized development. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum with hands-on learning experiences and regular developmental assessments. Features secure facilities with coded entry systems, indoor gymnasium, and fenced outdoor play areas. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with CPR and first aid training. Offers nutritious meals and snacks through their in-house food program. Strong emphasis on parent communication with daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Kiddie Academy of Sellersburg
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy provides educational childcare with their Life Essentials curriculum that focuses on character development, social skills, and academic readiness. Features technology-enhanced learning, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and emergency preparedness protocols. Staff includes degreed teachers with specialized training in early childhood development. Offers enrichment programs including music, Spanish, and physical fitness. The facility includes interactive whiteboards, dedicated learning centers, and age-appropriate outdoor playgrounds with safety surfacing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in New Washington, IN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in New Washington, Indiana, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Indiana, all childcare providers caring for more than five unrelated children must be licensed by the state's Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. This includes centers, ministries, and home-based providers meeting that threshold. Licensed facilities in New Washington must adhere to strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, background checks, health and safety protocols, and staff training. You can verify the license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations of any provider in Clark County (where New Washington is located) by using the "Child Care Finder" tool on the FSSA website. It's a critical first step to ensure you're considering a legally compliant and monitored program.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in New Washington, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the New Washington and greater Clark County area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $175 to $225 per week. Toddler care is slightly less, often between $150 and $200 per week. Home-based daycare may offer lower rates. These costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and hours. For financial assistance, Indiana's Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, work/school requirements, and family size. You can apply through the Clark County Division of Family Resources office. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in New Washington, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, waitlists at reputable daycare centers in and around New Washington can be significant. It's not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months for infant rooms. For toddlers and preschoolers, wait times may be shorter, around 3-6 months. We strongly recommend starting your search during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. When touring facilities, ask specifically about their current waitlist length, the deposit required to hold a spot (if any), and how often they update families on their position.
Are there any unique childcare options in New Washington, such as part-day preschools or faith-based programs, for parents not needing full-time care?
Yes, New Washington offers several options beyond traditional full-time daycare. The local school corporation, New Washington Elementary, may offer a state-funded pre-kindergarten (On My Way Pre-K) program for eligible 4-year-olds, which is typically a part-day program. There are also licensed childcare ministries associated with local churches that often provide preschool programs for 3-5 year olds, which may run for just a few hours, 2-3 days a week. These can be an excellent and often more affordable option for parents seeking socialization and early learning without full-day care. Checking with churches like New Washington United Methodist or St. John's Lutheran Church is a good starting point.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in New Washington to assess quality and safety?
Beyond checking the state license, an in-person tour is essential. First, observe the environment: Is it clean, well-lit, and free of obvious hazards? Are there age-appropriate toys and learning materials? Watch how staff interact with children—are they engaged and responsive? Ask about staff qualifications and turnover rates. Specifically inquire about their emergency procedures for severe weather common to Indiana, like tornadoes, and their sick child policy. Check that outdoor play areas are secure and shaded. Finally, trust your instincts about the overall atmosphere—is it a warm, welcoming place where children seem happy and busy? Don't hesitate to ask for references from other New Washington parents.