The Best Daycare Centers in Sheridan, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sheridan. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sheridan
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Sheridan offers a research-based curriculum focused on early childhood development, with age-appropriate programs for infants through school-age children. The center emphasizes literacy, math, and social-emotional learning through structured activities and play. Staff includes qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, and the facility maintains low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. Safety features include secure entry systems, regular health checks, and nutritious meal programs. Parents praise the center's communication and engaging learning environment, making it a trusted choice in the community.
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The Goddard School of Westfield
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Westfield provides a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® Learning Program, which integrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) activities into daily routines. The center features well-equipped classrooms, outdoor play areas, and a focus on individualized development plans. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing training. Safety protocols include background checks, surveillance systems, and allergy-aware meal plans. High parent satisfaction stems from the school's emphasis on creativity, communication, and community involvement, serving families in Sheridan and surrounding areas.
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Primrose School of Noblesville
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Noblesville offers a balanced learning curriculum that combines academic readiness with character development and life skills. Their proprietary programs include literacy-rich environments, hands-on activities, and partnerships with parents to track developmental milestones. The facility boasts secure access, clean indoor and outdoor play spaces, and nutritionally balanced meals prepared on-site. Staff are trained in early childhood best practices and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. Recognized for its inclusive atmosphere and strong safety record, this center is a popular choice for families in Sheridan seeking a holistic educational experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sheridan, IN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Sheridan, Indiana?
In Sheridan and the surrounding Hamilton/Boone county area, full-time daycare costs typically range from $175 to $250 per week for an infant or toddler. This is generally lower than the state average, reflecting the more rural and small-town setting of Sheridan. Costs can vary based on the type of facility—home-based daycares often fall on the lower end of this range, while licensed childcare centers with structured educational programs may charge more. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Financial assistance may be available through Indiana's Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program for eligible families.
How can I verify that a daycare provider in Sheridan is properly licensed and has a good compliance record?
All licensed childcare providers in Indiana 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 review their compliance history, including any past violations, by using the state's online "Child Care Finder" tool. Simply search by the provider's name or location in Sheridan. Additionally, you can contact the local Child Care Resource and Referral agency for Region 5, which serves Hamilton County, for personalized assistance and to ask about local reputations. Always visit the facility in person to observe the environment and ask the director to see their current license.
Are there many options for drop-in or part-time childcare in Sheridan, or is full-time enrollment typically required?
Given Sheridan's size, most licensed daycare homes and centers primarily offer full-time enrollment to maintain stable staffing and income. However, part-time and drop-in care options do exist but are more limited. Some home-based providers may offer flexible schedules for preschoolers. For occasional or backup care, parents often look to neighboring towns like Westfield, Noblesville, or Carmel, which have larger centers that may offer drop-in services. It's best to call providers directly in Sheridan to inquire about part-time slots, as they may become available. Local churches, such as Sheridan United Methodist Church, have also been known to host parent's day out programs that offer partial-week care.
What is the average waitlist time for infant care at daycare centers in Sheridan, and when should I start looking?
Due to limited slots and state-mandated low staff-to-child ratios for infants, waitlists for infant care in Sheridan can be significant. It is common to encounter waitlists of 3 to 9 months, especially for the most sought-after providers. We strongly recommend that expecting parents in Sheridan begin researching and contacting daycare centers and licensed home providers as early as the second trimester of pregnancy. Many popular providers in the area maintain a rolling waitlist, and getting on multiple lists is a common strategy. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is typically $25-$75.
Are there any state or local programs in Sheridan that help with childcare costs for working families?
Yes, the primary program is Indiana's Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program, administered by the state's FSSA. Eligibility is based on family income, size, and work or school requirements. Families in Sheridan apply through the same state system as everyone in Indiana. Additionally, some local employers in the greater Indianapolis region may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). While Sheridan-specific subsidies are rare, it's worth checking with the Sheridan Community Schools about potential preschool programs for 4-year-olds that may be income-based. The local "Choices" network, part of the Hamilton County community, can also provide referrals to support services.