The Best Daycare Centers in Somerset, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Somerset. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Somerset
Bright Beginnings Learning Center
Independent
Bright Beginnings Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility located just 15 minutes from Somerset in Wabash. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Creative Curriculum standards. The center features certified early childhood educators with an average of 8+ years of experience and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Their facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern learning environments. The curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities, with daily progress reports provided to parents. They serve nutritious meals and snacks following USDA guidelines and offer flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Little Eagles Child Care & Preschool
Independent
Located approximately 20 minutes from Somerset in North Manchester, Little Eagles provides a nurturing environment with a strong emphasis on early childhood development. Their program incorporates HighScope curriculum principles, focusing on active participatory learning and key developmental indicators. The center employs state-licensed teachers with degrees in early childhood education and provides ongoing professional development. Safety features include secured access, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. Their facility includes dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and preschool classrooms with hands-on learning materials. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, individualized attention, and preparation of children for kindergarten.
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Growing Tree Early Learning Center
Regional Childcare Management
Growing Tree Early Learning Center serves families throughout Miami County and surrounding areas, including Somerset residents. This established center offers a research-based curriculum that blends Montessori-inspired activities with traditional early learning standards. Their qualified teaching staff includes CPR/first-aid certified professionals with specialized training in early childhood development. The center features modern security systems, hygienic facilities, and spacious indoor/outdoor play areas. Their program emphasizes language development, cognitive skills, and social interaction through structured activities and free play. Additional services include nutritious meal programs, extended hours for working parents, and regular parent-teacher conferences to track developmental progress.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Somerset, IN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Somerset, Indiana?
In Somerset and the surrounding rural areas of Wabash County, full-time daycare costs are generally more affordable than in larger Indiana cities. For infants (0-2 years), you can expect to pay approximately $120-$160 per week for a licensed home daycare. Larger childcare centers in nearby towns like North Manchester or Wabash may range from $140-$190 per week. It's important to note that infant care is often the most expensive due to lower staff-to-child ratios required by Indiana law. Many providers in this area offer sibling discounts. We recommend contacting the Wabash County Child Care Coalition or checking the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) Child Care Finder website for the most current pricing and potential subsidy eligibility through the state's Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Somerset is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All licensed childcare providers in Indiana are regulated by the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) and the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA). To verify a provider's license and view their compliance history, you should use the official **Indiana Child Care Finder** website. This tool allows you to search by provider name, city (Somerset), or zip code and will show their license status, capacity, ages served, and any non-compliance reports from state inspections. You can also contact the local DCS licensing consultant for Region 3, which covers Wabash County. For registered ministry-exempt programs, which are common in rural communities like Somerset, they must still be registered with the state; you can verify their status through the same portal or by asking the provider for their registration certificate.
Are there any licensed daycare centers actually located within the town of Somerset, or will I need to look in neighboring communities?
Somerset is a very small, unincorporated community, so dedicated childcare *centers* within its immediate boundaries are limited. Most licensed childcare options in the immediate area are licensed family home daycares, which operate out of a provider's residence. For larger center-based care, parents in Somerset typically look to neighboring towns such as **North Manchester** (approx. 10-15 minutes away) or **Wabash** (approx. 20-25 minutes away), which have several licensed childcare centers and preschools. Transportation considerations are important. Many local home providers in Somerset, however, offer a personalized, home-like setting that can be ideal for families seeking care close to home. Checking the Indiana Child Care Finder with a Somerset zip code (46984) will list all nearby registered options.
What is the average waitlist time for infant daycare spots in the Somerset area, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers and the strict infant-to-caregiver ratios (1:4 for infants under 12 months), securing an infant spot in the Somerset area can be competitive. For the most sought-after licensed home daycares or centers in nearby towns, waitlists can be 3 to 6 months long, sometimes longer. It is strongly advised to begin your search and make inquiries **during your second trimester of pregnancy**, if possible. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current infant waitlist policy, any deposit required to hold a spot, and how often they update the list. Being flexible on your start date can improve your chances. Networking through local community groups, churches, or the Wabash County YMCA can also help you find openings.
What are some local resources or organizations in Wabash County that can help me find and evaluate childcare options near Somerset?
Parents in Somerset have several valuable local resources. First, the **Wabash County Child Care Coalition**, often facilitated through local United Way or Purdue Extension offices, works to support childcare providers and connect families with options. Second, the **Wabash County YMCA** in North Manchester is a hub for family services and may have referrals or operate preschool programs. Third, **Purdue Extension - Wabash County** offers educational resources on child development and may maintain lists of providers. For financial assistance, contact the **Wabash County Division of Family Resources** to apply for state CCDF vouchers. Finally, don't underestimate local networks: Facebook groups like "Wabash County Chat" or "Somerset Community" are often used by parents and providers to post about daycare openings.