The Best Daycare Centers in Cumming, IA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cumming. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cumming
Kids Inc. Preschool
Kids Inc. Learning Centers
Kids Inc. Preschool is a highly-regarded early childhood education center located just minutes from Cumming in Norwalk. They offer a comprehensive curriculum focused on developmental milestones through play-based learning and structured activities. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facilities with keypad entry systems. Their program includes age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor playgrounds, and enrichment activities like music and movement. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and the center's commitment to preparing children for kindergarten success.
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The Learning Tree
The Learning Tree Child Development Center
The Learning Tree provides high-quality childcare and early education serving the Cumming and Norwalk communities. Their research-based curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through hands-on learning experiences. The center features dedicated infant rooms with primary caregivers, toddler learning environments, and preschool classrooms with certified early childhood educators. Safety protocols include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The facility includes both indoor and outdoor learning spaces, and they provide nutritious meals and snacks meeting USDA guidelines.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in West Des Moines is part of a nationally recognized early childhood education system that serves families in the greater Des Moines area, including Cumming. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) balances academic learning with play-based development, focusing on literacy, STEM, art, and physical development. All lead teachers have degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. The modern facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, well-equipped classrooms. Parents appreciate the comprehensive communication through daily reports and the school's focus on preparing children for elementary school success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cumming, IA
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Cumming, Iowa?
In Cumming and the surrounding Warren County area, parents typically have three main licensed options. First, licensed child development homes, which are in-home daycares run by a registered provider for up to 6 children (with no more than 2 under 24 months). These are common in residential areas of Cumming. Second, licensed child care centers, though the nearest are typically located in nearby Norwalk, Indianola, or West Des Moines. Third, preschool programs, which are often part-time and may be offered through local community organizations or churches. For the most current list of licensed providers, parents should consult the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Care Resource & Referral website or contact the local CCR&R office serving Warren County.
How can I check the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Cumming?
Iowa DHS maintains public records for all licensed childcare providers. You can access this information online through the "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the Iowa DHS website. By entering the provider's name or zip code (50061 for Cumming), you can view their license status, capacity, age ranges served, and any non-compliance reports from state inspections. It's highly recommended to review these reports, which detail any regulatory violations and the provider's plan to correct them. You can also call the DHS Child Care Complaint Hotline for general inquiries. Always visit a potential provider in person to observe the environment and ask how they've addressed any past violations.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Cumming, IA?
Costs in Cumming are generally lower than in the Des Moines metro but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed in-home daycare, you might expect to pay between $150 to $200 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. A spot at a licensed center in a neighboring town like Norwalk could range from $200 to $275 per week. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, snacks, formula, educational materials). Iowa also offers the Child Care Assistance (CCA) program for income-eligible families to help offset costs; you can apply through the Warren County DHS office.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Cumming, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to Cumming's smaller size and limited number of providers, waitlists for preferred in-home daycares can be common, especially for infant care. It is strongly advised to begin your search at least 3-6 months before your needed start date, and if you are expecting, to start inquiring during your second trimester. Many providers in tight-knit communities like Cumming fill openings through word-of-mouth, so asking for recommendations from other parents at local parks or community events can be invaluable. Be prepared to get on multiple waitlists and to consider providers in adjacent communities such as Norwalk or Indianola to increase your options.
What local resources or programs in Warren County can help me find and evaluate childcare?
The primary resource is the Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency for Region 11, which serves Warren County. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in Cumming and the surrounding area. You can contact them by phone or online to discuss your specific needs. Additionally, the Warren County Public Health department can provide information on health and safety standards. For evaluating quality, look for providers participating in Iowa's Quality Rating System (QRS), called "Iowa's Quality for Kids," which rates programs on a star scale. While not all small-town providers participate, those that do have undergone additional voluntary assessment. Local parenting groups on social media for Warren County are also active forums for sharing experiences and recommendations.