The Best Daycare Centers in Ellsworth, IA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ellsworth. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ellsworth
Little Hawks Learning Center
Little Hawks Learning Center
Little Hawks Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility located just 10 miles from Ellsworth in Slater. They offer a comprehensive educational program based on developmentally appropriate practices with a focus on hands-on learning. The center features qualified early childhood educators with low teacher-to-child ratios, secure entry systems, and modern facilities including age-appropriate playgrounds. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy, math readiness, social-emotional development, and STEM activities. They provide nutritious meals and snacks and maintain excellent communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences. The center is known for its warm, nurturing environment and strong community reputation.
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Kiddie Academy of Ankeny
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Ankeny is part of a nationally recognized educational childcare chain serving families in the greater Des Moines metro area, including Ellsworth residents. Their Life Essentials® curriculum focuses on character development, academic preparation, and social skills through project-based learning. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, certified teachers with early childhood degrees, and comprehensive health and safety protocols. They offer enrichment programs in music, Spanish, and physical education. The center maintains small class sizes and provides real-time updates to parents through their proprietary communication app. Their structured yet flexible approach prepares children for kindergarten success.
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Sunshine Early Learning Center - Huxley
Sunshine Early Learning Center
Sunshine Early Learning Center in Huxley (approximately 15 miles from Ellsworth) provides high-quality early childhood education in a family-oriented environment. Their research-based curriculum emphasizes play-based learning while incorporating literacy, mathematics, and science concepts. The center features experienced early childhood professionals with ongoing training requirements, secure facilities with camera monitoring, and USDA-approved meal programs. They focus on developing the whole child through social-emotional learning, creative expression, and physical development activities. The center is known for its inclusive environment and strong partnerships with local school districts to ensure smooth transitions to kindergarten.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ellsworth, IA
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Ellsworth, Iowa, and how do I find them?
In Ellsworth, Iowa, licensed childcare options primarily include in-home daycare providers (registered child development homes) and potentially center-based care in nearby communities, as Ellsworth is a small city. The most direct way to find licensed providers is through the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) system. You can search their online database at **childcareresourceandreferral.org** or call 1-855-244-5301 to get a tailored list of providers in or near Ellsworth (e.g., in Hubbard, Jewell, or Story City). Local word-of-mouth through community Facebook groups like "Ellsworth, IA Community" is also invaluable for finding trusted local in-home providers.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare in Ellsworth, and are there any financial assistance programs for Iowa families?
For in-home daycare in Ellsworth and surrounding rural areas of Hamilton County, full-time care for an infant typically ranges from $135 to $185 per week. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs are slightly lower, averaging $120 to $160 per week. These rates are generally more affordable than in larger Iowa cities like Ames or Des Moines. Iowa offers financial assistance through the **Child Care Assistance (CCA)** program for eligible families based on income, family size, and work or education requirements. You apply through Iowa HHS. Additionally, many Iowa families utilize the federal **Dependent Care FSA** through their employer or may qualify for the **Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit**.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Ellsworth, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to Ellsworth's small size and limited number of providers, openings in high-quality, licensed in-home daycares can be scarce and often operate on a first-come, first-served basis with informal waitlists. It is highly recommended to begin your search **at least 3-6 months before you need care**, especially if you require infant care, as provider capacity for infants is very limited by Iowa's strict staff-to-child ratios. Proactively contacting providers, even before a public opening is announced, and getting on their contact list is a common strategy. Exploring options in neighboring towns like Jewell or Stanhope can increase your chances of finding a timely opening.
What should I look for when visiting a potential in-home daycare provider in Ellsworth?
Beyond checking that the provider's Iowa DHS license is current and visible, focus on environment and philosophy. Ask about their daily schedule, meal plans, and policy on outdoor play. Given Ellsworth's rural setting, inquire about safe outdoor spaces and inclement weather plans. Observe how the provider interacts with the children and ask about their experience, training in CPR/First Aid, and their emergency plan for things like power outages or severe weather common in Iowa. Discuss their sick policy, hours of operation (noting potential early closures for local events), and how they communicate with parents. Trust your instincts about the home's cleanliness, safety, and overall warmth.
How does Iowa's licensing ensure the safety and quality of small in-home daycares in a community like Ellsworth?
Iowa law requires all non-relative childcare providers caring for more than 5 children to be licensed. The Iowa DHS sets strict standards for registered child development homes, which include: * **Ratios and Capacity:** A maximum of 6 children, with no more than 2 under 24 months. * **Health and Safety:** Annual inspections for home safety, fire drills, safe sleep practices for infants, and background checks for all adults in the home. * **Provider Training:** Mandatory pre-licensing training and ongoing annual training in areas like child development, health, and safety. * **Health Requirements:** Immunization records for children and providers, along with policies for managing illness. You can verify a provider's license status and view any compliance history through the Iowa DHS **Child Care Portal**. This state oversight provides a crucial baseline of safety for parents in small towns like Ellsworth.