The Best Daycare Centers in Worthington, IN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Worthington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Worthington
The Goddard School of Bloomington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Bloomington offers a premier early childhood education program serving families throughout the Greene County region. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on developmental objectives while encouraging children's natural curiosity. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. Highly qualified teachers implement play-based learning with STEAM curriculum elements, and the facility includes both indoor and outdoor play spaces designed for age-appropriate development. Parents appreciate the regular communication through daily reports and the nutritious meal program.
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Little Blessings Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
Little Blessings has served the Sullivan County and surrounding areas including Worthington for nearly two decades with a faith-based educational approach combined with comprehensive early childhood development programs. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness through structured learning centers and hands-on activities. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios with qualified staff holding early childhood education credentials. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility offers age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and provides nutritional meals and snacks.
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Stepping Stones Preschool and Childcare Center
Independent
Stepping Stones serves families throughout Morgan County and surrounding regions with a comprehensive early childhood program that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. Their research-based curriculum includes Creative Curriculum components with emphasis on literacy, mathematics, and science exploration. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, clean and organized classrooms, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. Qualified early childhood educators provide individualized attention with small group activities. The program includes outdoor play areas, structured learning times, and focuses on building foundational skills for school success through play-based and structured learning experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Worthington, IN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Worthington, Indiana, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Worthington and all of Indiana, childcare providers must be licensed by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) unless they are legally exempt (like certain small in-home operations). Licensed centers and homes must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety, health, and staff training. To verify a provider's license and view any past violations, you can use the FSSA's online Child Care Finder tool. This public database allows you to search for providers in Worthington (zip code 47471) and see their license status, inspection reports, and compliance history. It's a crucial first step for any parent to ensure the facility operates under state oversight.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Worthington, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Worthington and the surrounding Greene County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $130 to $175 per week, while toddler care may be slightly lower, around $120 to $160 per week. These costs are generally more affordable than in larger Indiana cities like Indianapolis or Bloomington. 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 attendance. You can apply through the local Greene County Division of Family Resources office. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Worthington, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Worthington, waitlists for infant and toddler spots at licensed centers can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move start their search during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-8 months before they need care. Popular local centers may have even longer waits. Don't hesitate to get on multiple lists, as availability can change. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Worthington and nearby towns like Linton or Jasonville, which may have shorter wait times.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in Worthington?
For school-age children attending Worthington Elementary School, the most common option is the school's own before and after-school program, if available. These programs are typically housed at the school and offer convenience and familiarity. It's essential to contact the school district (North Central Parke Community School Corporation) directly for current availability, hours, and costs. Alternative options may include local daycare centers that offer school-age programs with transportation to and from school, though this is less common in smaller towns. Some licensed family childcare providers may also offer before/after-school care, so checking the FSSA Child Care Finder for these specific services is advised.
Are there any daycare facilities in Worthington that offer specialized care, such as for children with disabilities or non-traditional hours for shift workers?
Finding specialized care in a small town like Worthington can be challenging. While most local centers follow standard weekday hours (approximately 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM), options for overnight, weekend, or irregular hours for shift workers are extremely limited and would likely require a private in-home nanny arrangement. For children with disabilities, providers are required by law to make reasonable accommodations. However, your best course of action is to contact providers directly to discuss specific needs. For more comprehensive support, you may need to look at providers in larger nearby communities like Terre Haute or Bloomington or connect with Indiana's First Steps early intervention system or the Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services for guidance and resources.