The Best Daycare Centers in Durant, IA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Durant. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Durant
Primrose School of North Liberty
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of North Liberty offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® approach that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their research-based curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, math, science, and social studies. Features include state-certified teachers with early childhood education backgrounds, secure keypad entry systems, live streaming cameras for parent viewing, and nutritious meals prepared on-site. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated art and music rooms, and modern learning environments. Serving families throughout the Cedar Rapids/Iowa City corridor, they maintain low student-teacher ratios and comprehensive safety protocols.
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Kiddie Academy of Coralville
Kiddie Academy
Kiddie Academy of Coralville provides comprehensive educational childcare through their Life Essentials® curriculum that emphasizes character development, STEM learning, and school readiness. The center features degreed lead teachers, secure electronic entry systems, and real-time communication with parents through the Academy Link® mobile app. Their facility includes interactive whiteboards, age-specific learning centers, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and a dedicated music and movement room. The academy serves families throughout Johnson County with flexible scheduling options and maintains excellent staff retention rates with many teachers having 5+ years of experience.
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The Goddard School of Coralville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Coralville offers a play-based F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that promotes social, emotional, and academic development. Their faculty includes early childhood education professionals with ongoing professional development requirements. The facility features secure keyless entry, comprehensive safety protocols, bright classrooms with learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. The curriculum incorporates literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts with a focus on developing critical thinking skills. Located conveniently near I-380, they serve families throughout the Iowa City metro area with extended hours and year-round programming.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Durant, IA
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Durant, Iowa, and how can I verify a daycare is properly licensed?
In Durant, Iowa, all childcare centers and registered home providers must be licensed by the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS). Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and facility safety. For in-home care, providers caring for 6 or more children must be licensed, while those caring for 5 or fewer can be "registered" with less stringent oversight. To verify a provider's status, you can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the Iowa DHS website or contact the DHS Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for Eastern Iowa, which serves the Durant area. Always ask to see the provider's current license or registration certificate during your visit.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Durant, IA?
In Durant and the surrounding rural areas of Cedar County, childcare costs are generally lower than in larger Iowa metros but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, you might expect to pay between $150 to $225 per week for full-time infant care. A licensed in-home daycare typically ranges from $120 to $180 per week. For preschool-aged children, costs are often slightly lower. It's important to note that Durant has limited providers, so prices can be influenced by availability. We recommend contacting providers directly for their current rates and inquiring about any potential financial assistance programs, such as the Iowa Child Care Assistance (CCA) program for eligible families.
Are there any preschool programs integrated into daycare options in Durant, or will I need to find a separate program?
Given Durant's small size, most early education is integrated into local daycare settings rather than standalone preschools. Several licensed home providers and the primary daycare centers in the area typically offer structured preschool curricula for children ages 3-5 as part of their full-day childcare programs. These programs focus on school readiness skills like letters, numbers, and social development. For a more formal, part-day preschool, parents often look to neighboring communities like Wilton, Muscatine, or the Davenport/Bettendorf area. The Durant Community School District itself does not offer a universal preschool program, so checking with local daycare providers about their educational components is your best first step.
How long are waitlists for daycare in Durant, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Durant, waitlists for infant and toddler care can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months. It is highly advisable to begin your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask specific questions: their current waitlist length, the process for staying on the list (e.g., some require a non-refundable fee), and how often they update families. Also, expand your search to include registered home providers in Durant and licensed centers in nearby towns such as Wilton or Muscatine, which may have different availability. Being flexible with your start date can also improve your chances.
What local resources are available in Durant to help me find and evaluate childcare options?
The primary resource for parents in Durant is the statewide Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) network. Specifically, the Eastern Iowa CCR&R, which can be accessed online or by phone, provides free referrals to licensed and registered providers in Durant and Cedar County. They can also offer guidance on what to look for during a visit, explain state regulations, and provide information on financial assistance. Locally, you can connect with other parents through community Facebook groups (e.g., Durant, IA Community Page) or ask for recommendations at the Durant Public Library or the Durant Community School District office. Always schedule in-person tours to evaluate the environment, ask about daily routines, and meet the caregivers.