The Best Daycare Centers in Orland, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Orland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Orland
KinderCare Learning Center at Sturgis
KinderCare Education
This highly-rated KinderCare center provides comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum including phonics, math, science, and social skills development. Features secure facilities with keypad entry, certified early childhood educators, and age-appropriate learning environments. Offers balanced nutrition programs and regular parent communication through mobile app. Serves families in the Orland area with flexible scheduling options and transportation services for school-age children.
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Little Lambs Christian Learning Center
Independent
Christian-based childcare center offering developmental programs integrated with faith-based values. Features low student-teacher ratios, state-licensed qualified staff, and comprehensive curriculum focusing on social, emotional, and academic readiness. Includes secure facilities with monitored access, outdoor playgrounds, and structured learning activities. Emphasizes character development and family involvement with regular progress reports and parent-teacher conferences.
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Stepping Stones Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Established childcare provider offering developmental programs with focus on school readiness and social skills. Features certified early childhood educators, structured curriculum including literacy and STEM activities, and secure facility with age-appropriate learning centers. Provides nutritious meals and snacks, outdoor play areas, and regular developmental assessments. Known for personalized attention and strong parent communication through daily reports and digital updates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Orland, IN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Orland, Indiana, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
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 homes, centers, and ministries in Orland. Licensed providers must meet standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety, health, and staff training. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations by using the "Child Care Finder" tool on the FSSA website. It's highly recommended to choose a licensed provider to ensure a baseline of safety and quality. You can also contact the local Child Care Resource and Referral agency for Northeast Indiana for additional guidance.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Orland, IN, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In the Orland area and surrounding Steuben County, costs can vary. For a licensed childcare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week. Home-based daycare may be slightly less, often between $120 and $180 per week. Prices generally decrease slightly for older toddlers. To help with these costs, Indiana offers the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance. You can apply through the local Division of Family Resources office. Additionally, some providers may offer sibling discounts, so be sure to ask during your search.
Are there many daycare options with flexible or non-traditional hours in Orland for parents working shifts or weekends?
Finding childcare with extended, overnight, or weekend hours in a smaller community like Orland can be challenging, as most providers operate on a standard weekday schedule (e.g., 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM). Your best options are to inquire directly with local licensed home providers, as they may offer more personalized and flexible arrangements. For reliable non-traditional care, you may need to expand your search to larger nearby towns like Angola or Fremont, which may have centers with extended hours. Networking with other local parents through community groups or social media can also help identify potential in-home caregivers willing to accommodate shift work.
What should I look for when touring a daycare facility in Orland, and are there any local resources to help me compare options?
When touring a daycare in Orland, look for: a clean, safe environment with secure entrances; engaged and caring staff interacting with children; a posted license; age-appropriate toys and learning materials; and a daily schedule that includes both play and learning. Ask about staff qualifications, turnover rates, emergency procedures, and their sick policy. For local comparison help, contact the **Early Childhood Alliance**, which serves as the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for Northeast Indiana. They provide free referrals, quality information, and can help you understand the different types of care available in Steuben County.
How long are waitlists typically for daycare centers in the Orland area, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited options in a smaller town, waitlists for the most sought-after licensed centers and home daycares in and around Orland can be significant, especially for infant spots. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 3 to 6 months long, or even longer. Therefore, it is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **as soon as possible**, ideally during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before you need care. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on their lists, and follow up periodically. Exploring options in neighboring Angola may provide more availability and shorter wait times.