The Best Daycare Centers in Waveland, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Waveland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Waveland
The Goddard School of Crawfordsville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Crawfordsville offers a premier early childhood education program serving families in the Waveland area. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on play-based learning while developing academic, social, and emotional skills. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. Certified teachers implement age-appropriate STEAM curriculum with daily enrichment activities including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure. The facility includes modern classrooms, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and nutritious meal programs. Parents appreciate the regular communication through daily reports and the high staff-to-child ratios.
Daycare Services:
Sugar Creek Montessori School
Independent
Sugar Creek Montessori provides authentic Montessori education serving Waveland and surrounding communities. The school follows AMI-recognized Montessori methods with specially trained teachers guiding children through hands-on learning experiences. The program emphasizes independence, self-direction, and mixed-age classrooms that foster natural peer learning. Facilities include beautifully prepared Montessori environments, outdoor nature exploration areas, and practical life spaces. The school maintains small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios and focuses on whole-child development. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment and the exceptional academic preparation children receive for elementary education.
Daycare Services:
Greencastle Christian Church Early Learning Center
Greencastle Christian Church
Greencastle Christian Church Early Learning Center serves families throughout Putnam County including Waveland residents. The center provides Christ-centered early childhood education with a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic readiness and spiritual development. Their program includes literacy development, mathematics foundation, science exploration, and character education. The facility features secure access, modern safety equipment, age-appropriate learning centers, and outdoor play spaces. Teachers are CPR/first-aid certified and participate in ongoing professional development. The center is known for its strong community feel, experienced teaching staff, and excellent parent-teacher communication through regular conferences and daily updates.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Waveland, IN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Waveland, Indiana, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Waveland, Indiana, all childcare centers and licensed family daycare homes must be regulated by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) through the Bureau of Child Care. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations using the state's online **Child Care Finder** tool. For smaller, unlicensed registered ministries or legally exempt providers, verification is more parent-driven; always ask for references and their specific compliance documentation. Given Waveland's smaller size, many providers are licensed family homes, so checking their state license is a crucial first step.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Waveland, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Waveland and the surrounding Montgomery County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from **$150 to $225 per week**, while toddler care may cost **$130 to $200 per week**. Prices can be slightly lower for in-home providers compared to centers. For financial assistance, Indiana's **Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program** is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school requirements. You can apply through the Montgomery County office of the Division of Family Resources. Additionally, some local churches or community organizations in Waveland may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees, so it's worth inquiring directly with providers.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or popular in-home providers in Waveland, and when should I start looking?
Due to Waveland's rural nature and limited number of providers, waitlists can vary significantly. For the most sought-after licensed family homes or the few centers in nearby towns like Crawfordsville, waitlists can be **3 to 8 months long**, especially for infant spots. It is highly recommended to begin your search **at least 6 months before you need care**, and if you are expecting, to get on lists during your second trimester. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, ask about their current list length and policy for moving up, and check in periodically. Flexibility with start dates can sometimes help secure a spot sooner.
Are there any daycare options in Waveland that offer flexible or non-traditional hours for parents working shifts in agriculture or manufacturing?
Yes, recognizing the local economy which includes farming and shift work at nearby manufacturing plants, some providers offer flexible hours. Several licensed family daycare homes in Waveland may accommodate early morning (starting at 5:30 or 6 AM) or evening hours, and some might offer part-time or drop-in care. It's essential to communicate your specific schedule needs upfront. While standard hours are common, providers are often willing to discuss custom arrangements to fill spots. For guaranteed non-traditional hours, you may need to look at 24-hour centers in larger neighboring cities like Crawfordsville, though this involves a commute.
What should I look for during an in-person visit to a daycare provider in Waveland, given the local setting?
During a visit in Waveland, look for both universal and local-specific indicators. First, ensure the license is posted and current. Observe cleanliness, safe outdoor play areas (check for secure fencing given possible rural traffic or animals), and ask about their plan for severe weather common to Indiana. Inquire about their approach to incorporating local experiences, like nature walks or farm visits, which are unique to the area. Ask about staff longevity—low turnover indicates a stable environment. Finally, discuss their communication methods for parents, which is especially important in a close-knit community where word-of-mouth referrals are common. Trust your instincts about the caregiver's warmth and the children's engagement.