The Best Daycare Centers in Plainfield, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Plainfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Plainfield
The Goddard School of Plainfield
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Plainfield offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention.
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Primrose School of Plainfield
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Plainfield follows the Balanced Learning® approach, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. Their curriculum includes literacy, math, science, social studies, and creative arts. The facility features secure keypad entry, dedicated age-specific playgrounds, and modern classrooms with developmentally appropriate learning materials. All lead teachers have early childhood education credentials, and the school maintains rigorous safety protocols including comprehensive background checks and regular safety drills.
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The Learning Experience - Avon
The Learning Experience
Located in nearby Avon and serving Plainfield families, The Learning Experience offers the L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum with proprietary programs for phonics, foreign language, and manners. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, indoor and outdoor play areas, and specialized learning centers. Their staff includes certified early childhood educators with ongoing training requirements. The program emphasizes social, emotional, and academic development through hands-on learning activities, and they provide regular progress reports to parents with photos and updates through their mobile app.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Plainfield, IN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Plainfield, Indiana?
In Plainfield, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the type of facility and the child's age. For center-based care, infant care (6 weeks to 18 months) typically ranges from $250 to $350 per week. Toddler care (18 months to 3 years) is slightly less, averaging $220 to $300 per week. Home-based daycare providers (licensed family childcare homes) often offer more affordable rates, generally between $160 and $250 per week. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that costs in Plainfield are generally in line with or slightly below the Indianapolis metro area average. Many facilities require an annual registration fee ($75-$150) in addition to weekly tuition.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Plainfield is properly licensed and what should I look for during a visit?
All licensed childcare providers in Plainfield are regulated by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), specifically the Bureau of Child Care. You can verify a provider's license, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the official "Child Care Finder" tool on the FSSA website. During an in-person visit to a Plainfield facility, look for the state license displayed prominently, ask about staff qualifications (Indiana requires lead teachers to have a Child Development Associate credential or higher), and observe the environment for safety (secured entrances, clean spaces, age-appropriate toys). Also, ask about their emergency plans for severe weather common in Hendricks County. A quality provider will be transparent and welcome these questions.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Plainfield, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant rooms and highly-rated preschool programs in Plainfield, especially for centers near major employers like the Plainfield Medical Campus or along the I-70 corridor. For infant care, it is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists during your second trimester of pregnancy, as waits of 6 to 12 months are not unusual. For toddler and preschool openings, starting your search 4-6 months in advance is advisable. Many centers have rolling enrollment, but spots often open up at natural transition points like the start of summer or the new school year in August. Don't hesitate to get on multiple lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$75).
What types of childcare assistance or subsidy programs are available for families in Plainfield?
Families in Plainfield may qualify for the Indiana Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program, which helps low-income working families, those in education/training, or families receiving protective services pay for childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care. You apply through the Hendricks County Division of Family Resources office. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or scholarships. The Plainfield Public Library and the Town of Plainfield Parks & Recreation department also offer occasional subsidized preschool or school-break camp programs. For the most current information and application, contact the Indiana FSSA or visit their website.
Beyond traditional daycare centers, what other structured childcare options are available in Plainfield for school-age children?
Plainfield offers several excellent options for before/after-school care and summer programs for school-age children. The Plainfield Community School Corporation partners with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hendricks County to provide on-site before and after-school care at each elementary school. The Town of Plainfield Parks & Recreation Department runs popular and affordable summer day camps at various parks, focusing on recreation and enrichment. Several local churches also host summer Vacation Bible School programs. For more specialized care, there are in-home providers and nanny shares organized through local parent networks on social media (like Facebook groups for Plainfield parents). These options help bridge the gap when school is not in session.