The Best Daycare Centers in Floris, IA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Floris. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Floris
Little Lambs Learning Center
Independent
Little Lambs Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility known for its nurturing and educational environment. They employ a play-based learning curriculum that emphasizes social, emotional, and cognitive development, aligned with Iowa Early Learning Standards. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, with staff holding degrees in early childhood education and CPR/First Aid certifications. Facilities include secure indoor classrooms and outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment. Parents praise the center for its strong communication, individualized attention to developmental milestones, and focus on safety through controlled access and daily health checks. Nutritious meals and snacks are provided, supporting overall child well-being.
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KinderCare of Ottumwa
KinderCare Education
KinderCare of Ottumwa offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a research-based curriculum that includes literacy, math, and science activities tailored to each age group. The center boasts state-licensed teachers with specialized training in child development and safety protocols. Features include secure entry systems, modern classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds designed for physical activity. Parents highlight the center's engaging learning materials, cultural diversity initiatives, and flexible scheduling options. Regular assessments track developmental progress, and the center provides nutritious meal programs. Its reputation for high-quality care and strong parent satisfaction makes it a top choice for families in the Floris area.
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Davis County Child Development Center
Independent
Davis County Child Development Center is celebrated for its family-oriented approach and robust educational framework, focusing on hands-on learning and school readiness. The curriculum integrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) activities with social-emotional learning, delivered by qualified educators with background checks and ongoing training. The facility includes safe, clean environments with monitored play areas and age-specific learning zones. Emphasizing inclusivity and communication, the center offers regular parent updates and involvement opportunities. Safety measures include emergency drills and health screenings, while nutritious meals support holistic development. Its long-standing presence and positive reviews underscore its commitment to quality childcare in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Floris, IA
What types of licensed childcare options are available in and around Floris, Iowa?
In Floris and the surrounding rural areas of Davis County, parents typically have a few primary licensed childcare options. These include in-home registered child development homes (often run by a single provider in their residence) and licensed childcare centers, which are more common in nearby larger towns like Bloomfield (about 10 miles away) or Ottumwa. Due to Floris's small size, many local families utilize the in-home providers within the community or commute to centers in neighboring towns. All licensed providers in Iowa are regulated by the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS), which sets standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, and health protocols. You can search for all licensed options serving the Floris area on the Iowa DHS Child Care Resource & Referral website.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost for an infant or toddler in the Floris area?
Childcare costs in the Floris area are generally lower than state or national averages, reflecting the rural cost of living. For a licensed in-home provider in Floris or nearby, you might expect to pay between $120 to $160 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. Childcare centers in nearby Bloomfield may range from $140 to $190 per week. It's important to note that infant care is often the most expensive due to lower staff-to-child ratios. Many families in Davis County may qualify for assistance through the Iowa Child Care Assistance (CCA) program, which helps subsidize costs for eligible working families. We recommend contacting the Southern Iowa Economic Development Association (SIEDA) or Iowa DHS directly to inquire about eligibility.
Are there long waitlists for childcare in Floris, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are a common challenge in Floris and throughout rural Iowa due to a limited number of providers. For the few licensed in-home providers in Floris itself, spots can be very limited and may have waitlists of several months to a year, especially for infants. For centers in Bloomfield or Ottumwa, waitlists can also be significant. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move to the Floris area begin their search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before care is needed. Being flexible on location (willing to commute to a nearby town) and type of care (in-home vs. center) can improve your chances of securing a spot.
What are the state licensing requirements for childcare providers in Iowa that I should look for?
Iowa law requires any caregiver providing care for more than five children (or more than one infant under 2) to be licensed by the DHS. Key requirements you can verify include: passing comprehensive background checks for all adults in the home or center, completing training in CPR, First Aid, and Mandatory Reporter of Child Abuse, adhering to strict health and safety standards (including safe sleep practices for infants), and meeting ongoing training hours. Licensed providers will have their license visibly posted. You can also check a provider's compliance history and any reported violations through the Iowa DHS online portal. Choosing a licensed provider in Floris ensures a baseline of oversight and safety for your child.
Are there any part-time, drop-in, or after-school care options for school-aged children in Floris?
Options for part-time or school-age care in Floris itself are extremely limited. The Floris community is served by the Davis County Community School District, and bus transportation is available to centers in Bloomfield. Some licensed in-home providers in the area may offer before- and after-school care or care on school holidays. For more structured programs, you may need to look at the YMCA or school-based programs in Bloomfield. For occasional drop-in care, it is very rare in this rural setting; most providers require set schedules due to limited capacity. Networking with other local parents through community groups or the school is often the best way to learn about informal or shared care arrangements for school-aged children.