The Best Daycare Centers in Burlington, IA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Burlington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Burlington
Bright Beginnings Preschool & Childcare Center
Independent
Bright Beginnings is a highly-regarded local childcare center known for its comprehensive early childhood education program. The center implements a research-based curriculum that focuses on developmental milestones through play-based learning and structured activities. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and holds degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. They emphasize social-emotional development and school readiness skills, with regular progress reports and parent-teacher conferences. The center is particularly noted for its nutritious meal program and inclusive environment.
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Stepping Stones Early Learning Center
Independent
Stepping Stones Early Learning Center provides a nurturing educational environment with a strong focus on individualized learning. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with STEM activities and literacy development. The center features certified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. Safety protocols include secured entry, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and preschool classrooms with modern educational materials. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, with daily updates and photos shared through a dedicated app. The program emphasizes character development and community involvement.
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Kiddie Korner Child Care & Preschool
Independent
Kiddie Korner has been serving Burlington families for nearly two decades with a reputation for reliable, quality childcare. Their educational approach balances structured learning with creative expression, incorporating music, art, and movement into daily activities. The experienced teaching staff focuses on building foundational academic skills while fostering independence and problem-solving abilities. The center maintains strict health and safety standards with regular cleaning protocols and trained CPR/first aid staff. Facilities include separate playgrounds for different age groups, spacious classrooms, and a dedicated nap area. The center offers flexible scheduling options and is known for its warm, family-oriented atmosphere that makes children feel secure and valued.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Burlington, IA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Burlington, IA, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Burlington, IA, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $150 to $225 per week at a licensed center, while toddler care typically ranges from $130 to $190 per week. In-home daycare providers often charge slightly less, around $120 to $175 weekly. These rates are generally lower than the Iowa state average, reflecting the local cost of living. For financial assistance, eligible families can apply for the Child Care Assistance (CCA) program through the Iowa Department of Human Services. Locally, you can contact the Des Moines County DHS office in Burlington for application support. Additionally, some centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Burlington is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All licensed childcare providers in Iowa are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a Burlington provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the Iowa DHS website. When touring a facility in Burlington, look for local-specific indicators of quality: ask about their emergency plans for Mississippi River flooding or severe Midwest weather, observe if the outdoor play areas are secure and well-maintained, and check for evidence of Iowa's Quality Rating System (QRS)—a voluntary program called "Iowa's Quality Rating System" where higher stars indicate better quality. Also, inquire about staff turnover, as stability is crucial for your child's development.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Burlington, and when should I start looking for care?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant and toddler spots at highly-rated daycare centers in Burlington, especially for facilities like the YMCA Child Development Center or programs affiliated with the Burlington Community School District. For infants, it's advisable to start your search and get on waitlists as early as your second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool-age care, beginning your search 6 to 9 months in advance is recommended. Availability can be slightly better at licensed in-home providers, but they also have limited capacity. To manage this, contact multiple providers, ask about their typical waitlist timelines, and get on more than one list if possible.
What are the options for part-time, drop-in, or after-school care in Burlington for school-age children?
Burlington offers several options for non-traditional childcare schedules. For after-school care, the Burlington Community School District partners with the Burlington Area YMCA to offer the "YMCA Safe 'n Sound" program at elementary schools, providing care until 6:00 PM. The YMCA itself also runs after-school and school-out day programs. For part-time or drop-in care, options are more limited but do exist; some licensed family childcare homes offer flexible schedules, and the "Kiddie Korner" preschool may have part-time preschool programs. For occasional drop-in care, it's best to call individual centers well in advance, as space is not guaranteed. Networking with other local parents can also help find smaller, informal arrangements.
What resources are available in Burlington to help me find and evaluate different childcare providers?
The primary local resource is Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) of Southeast Iowa, which serves Des Moines County. You can contact them for a personalized referral list of licensed providers in Burlington that match your needs (like hours, location, and child's age). They also offer guidance on what to look for and questions to ask. Additionally, the Burlington Public Library may have community bulletin boards with provider information, and local Facebook groups like "Burlington, Iowa Community" are often used by parents to share recommendations and experiences. For evaluating quality, use the Iowa DHS online lookup tool and ask providers if they participate in Iowa's Quality Rating System (QRS), which assesses standards beyond basic licensing.