The Best Daycare Centers in Shelbyville, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Shelbyville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Shelbyville
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Shelbyville provides a research-based, play-focused curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. Their certified teachers use individualized learning plans and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention. The center features secure facilities with keypad entry, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. Standout elements include a strong focus on kindergarten readiness, regular parent-teacher communication, and enrichment activities like music and movement. Parents consistently praise the caring staff and the center's commitment to safety and developmental milestones.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Greenwood
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Greenwood offers the F.L.E.X. Learning Program, which blends academic preparedness with play-based exploration and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) activities. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains rigorous safety protocols, including secured access and sanitization routines. The facility includes modern classrooms, outdoor play spaces, and a focus on language development and social skills. Parents highlight the school's nurturing environment, strong communication, and flexibility in scheduling, making it a top choice for families in the Shelbyville area.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Experience - Franklin
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Franklin utilizes its proprietary L.E.A.P. Curriculum® to foster phonics, math, and character development through engaging, hands-on activities. The center employs certified educators who focus on individualized learning and maintain small class sizes. Safety features include electronic entry systems, monitored play areas, and health screenings. The facility offers bright, clean classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and enrichment programs like yoga and foreign language exposure. Parents appreciate the consistent updates on child progress, the emphasis on manners and ethics, and the center's welcoming atmosphere, making it a reliable option for Shelbyville residents.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Shelbyville, IN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Shelbyville, Indiana?
In Shelbyville, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (6 weeks to 18 months), you can expect to pay between $150 to $220 per week at a licensed daycare center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), weekly rates typically range from $130 to $190. In-home family childcare providers often charge slightly less, averaging $120 to $180 per week for infants. These costs are generally lower than in larger Indiana cities like Indianapolis or Fishers. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and curriculum materials. Some centers in Shelbyville may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees based on income.
How do I verify that a daycare in Shelbyville is properly licensed and what are the key state regulations I should know about?
All licensed childcare providers in Shelbyville must be 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, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the state's online "Child Care Finder" tool. Key Indiana regulations for licensed centers include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers), background checks for all employees, and annual health and safety training. Shelbyville providers must also meet local fire, health, and building codes. Always look for the state license certificate posted visibly at the facility and don't hesitate to ask the director for their most recent licensing report.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Shelbyville, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Waitlist availability in Shelbyville can vary significantly. For the most popular centers and for infant care spots (which have the strictest ratios), waitlists of 3 to 9 months are not uncommon. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move start their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6-8 months before they need care. Some smaller in-home providers may have shorter wait times or immediate openings. It's a good practice to contact multiple providers, get on several lists (often with a small, refundable deposit), and follow up periodically. The demand can be seasonal, with more openings sometimes appearing in the late summer as older children transition to preschool.
What types of childcare assistance or subsidy programs are available for families in Shelbyville?
Eligible families in Shelbyville can apply for the Indiana Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program. This state-administered subsidy helps low-income working families, those in education/training programs, or families receiving protective services pay for childcare at participating providers. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the Shelby County Division of Family Resources or online via the FSSA website. Additionally, some local Shelbyville daycare centers may offer their own scholarship programs or sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking with your employer, as some larger companies in the area, like Knauf Insulation or the local hospital, may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or referral services.
Beyond traditional daycare centers, what other licensed childcare options are available in Shelbyville?
Shelbyville offers a range of licensed options to fit different family needs. These include: 1. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes:** Smaller, home-based settings often with mixed-age groups, providing a more family-like atmosphere. They are licensed for a specific number of children (typically 12 or fewer). 2. **Licensed Childcare Centers:** Larger facilities, often with structured classrooms, multiple staff, and established educational curricula. 3. **Ministry-Exempt Programs:** Some church-affiliated preschools or daycares may be "ministry-exempt" from certain state licensing rules but must still meet basic health and safety standards. It's crucial to ask about their specific policies and oversight. 4. **Before/After-School Care:** Several programs operate in conjunction with Shelbyville Central Schools, like the YMCA's after-school program, providing care for school-age children. You can find all these provider types through the state's Child Care Finder, filtering by location (46776, 46176) and type of care.