The Best Daycare Centers in Saint Anthony, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Saint Anthony. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Saint Anthony
Little Lambs Childcare & Preschool
Independent
Little Lambs provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, state-certified early childhood educators, and a secure facility with monitored access. Their curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy readiness, and hands-on learning experiences. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and modern learning materials. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, experienced staff, and strong communication about child development progress.
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St. Anthony Elementary Preschool
Greater Jasper Consolidated Schools
Located within the St. Anthony Elementary School, this preschool program offers high-quality early childhood education with certified teachers and a research-based curriculum. The program focuses on kindergarten readiness through structured academic activities, social development, and creative expression. Features include small class sizes, integrated technology learning stations, and access to school facilities like the library and gymnasium. The center maintains excellent safety protocols with secure entry systems and trained staff. Parents appreciate the seamless transition to elementary school and the strong community-oriented approach.
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Kiddie Academy of Jasper
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Jasper offers a nationally-recognized educational childcare program with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, camera monitoring, and strict pick-up protocols. Their degreed teachers implement age-appropriate STEM activities, literacy programs, and physical development exercises. The facility includes modern classrooms, interactive smart boards, and secure outdoor play areas. The academy provides nutritious meals and maintains detailed developmental progress tracking with regular parent conferences and digital daily reports.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Saint Anthony, IN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Saint Anthony, Indiana?
In Saint Anthony and the surrounding Dubois County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $150 to $200 per week. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs are slightly lower, averaging $130 to $175 per week. These rates are generally more affordable than in larger Indiana cities like Indianapolis or Evansville. Many local providers are in-home, family childcare programs, which can sometimes offer more competitive pricing than larger centers. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. For financial assistance, Indiana's Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program is available to eligible families, and some local providers participate.
How can I verify a daycare provider's license and inspection history in Saint Anthony?
All licensed childcare providers in Saint Anthony, IN, are regulated by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), specifically the Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. You can verify a provider's license and view their latest inspection reports online through the state's **Child Care Finder** website. Simply search by the provider's name or zip code (47575 for Saint Anthony). This tool will show you their license status, capacity, any cited violations, and the date of their last inspection. Given the small-town nature of Saint Anthony, many parents also rely on personal recommendations and local community groups on social media for informal vetting.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Saint Anthony, and how far in advance should I apply?
Due to the limited number of dedicated childcare facilities in a small town like Saint Anthony, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and even earlier if you are expecting a new baby. Many of the popular in-home providers and the few local centers have limited slots. When contacting a provider, ask directly about their current waitlist length and if they offer a priority list for siblings of current enrollees. Exploring options in nearby towns like Jasper or Ferdinand may provide more availability.
What are the most common types of childcare settings available in Saint Anthony?
Saint Anthony primarily offers two types of licensed childcare settings. The most common are **licensed family childcare homes**, where a provider cares for a small group of children (typically up to 12) in their own residence. These often provide a more home-like environment. The other option is **licensed childcare centers**, though there are fewer of these within the town limits; parents may need to look at centers in the larger neighboring community of Jasper. There are also registered ministries, which are exempt from state licensing but must meet basic health and safety standards. Due to the rural setting, formal preschool programs are often integrated into these daycare settings or offered through the local school district for older children.
What local resources or organizations in Dubois County can help me find and choose quality childcare?
A key local resource is the **4C of Southern Indiana**, a Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency that serves Dubois County. They maintain a database of licensed providers, offer guidance on choosing quality care, and can explain financial assistance options. You can contact them online or by phone. Additionally, the **Dubois County Health Department** can provide information on health and safety requirements. For community-based insights, many Saint Anthony parents use the "Dubois County Moms" or local town Facebook groups to ask for personal experiences and recommendations. The local public library in nearby Huntingburg or Jasper may also have community bulletin boards with provider information.