The Best Daycare Centers in Kelley, IA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Kelley. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Kelley
Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy provides a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes social-emotional development and school readiness. Their curriculum includes STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts, with certified early childhood educators leading small group instruction. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. They maintain low teacher-to-child ratios and offer nutritious meals and snacks. The center is known for its warm, nurturing environment and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Sunshine Early Learning Center
Independent
Sunshine Early Learning Center offers a balanced curriculum that combines structured learning with child-directed play. Their educational approach focuses on developing the whole child through cognitive, physical, social, and emotional growth activities. The center features modern security systems, spacious classrooms with natural lighting, and age-specific learning centers. Qualified early childhood teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices and maintain detailed progress tracking. The center is praised for its clean, safe environment and flexible scheduling options that accommodate working families in the Kelley area.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Ames provides a nationally recognized F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. Their play-based curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and creative arts, delivered by degreed early childhood educators. The facility features secure keypad entry, modern classrooms with interactive technology, and multiple outdoor playgrounds. The school maintains rigorous health and safety protocols, including comprehensive background checks for staff and regular facility inspections. Parents consistently praise the professional staff, engaging curriculum, and excellent communication systems.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Kelley, IA
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Kelley, Iowa?
In Kelley and the surrounding Story County area, families typically have three main licensed options. First, licensed childcare centers, which are larger facilities, may be found in nearby towns like Ames or Slater. Second, registered child development homes (in-home daycares) are common in smaller communities like Kelley; these are licensed for up to 12 children in a residential setting. Third, preschool programs, often part of local school districts or faith-based organizations, provide part-time educational care. Due to Kelley's size, many residents also utilize legally unregistered but smaller in-home providers or commute to the greater Ames area for more center-based options. Checking the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Care Provider Search website is the best way to find currently licensed providers in your specific zip code.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Kelley, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
Costs in Kelley are generally lower than in the nearby city of Ames but vary by provider type. A registered in-home daycare in Kelley might charge between $140-$190 per week for an infant, and $120-$160 per week for a preschooler. Center-based care in Ames averages $200-$260 per week for infants. Several financial assistance programs are available: the Iowa Child Care Assistance (CCA) program helps eligible low-income families, and applications are processed through the Story County DHS office in Nevada, IA. Additionally, many employers in the Ames area offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). It's also worth inquiring with individual providers about possible sibling discounts.
What is the typical waitlist situation for daycare in the Kelley area, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Given the limited number of providers in a small town like Kelley, securing a spot can be competitive, especially for infant care. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. Many high-quality in-home providers in the area have small, consistent enrollments and may only have openings when a child ages out. For centers in Ames, waitlists of 3-12 months are not uncommon. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length, if they charge a fee to be on it, and how often they update families on their position. Being flexible with your start date can significantly improve your chances.
What are Iowa's key licensing requirements and staff-to-child ratios I should look for in a Kelley daycare?
All licensed providers in Iowa must adhere to DHS standards. Key ratios for child development homes (common in Kelley) are: 1 caregiver to 4 children for infants (6 weeks to 2 years), with no more than 2 infants at a time; and 1 to 6 for children aged 2-5. For centers, ratios are 1:4 for infants, 1:6 for toddlers (2-3), and 1:8 for preschoolers (3-5). All staff must pass background checks, and providers must have training in CPR, First Aid, and mandatory reporter (child abuse) identification. You can verify a provider's license status and any history of non-compliance through the Iowa DHS public portal. Don't hesitate to ask a provider to see their current license.
Are there any unique resources or networks in Story County to help parents in Kelley find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, a primary local resource is **Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) of Central Iowa**, which serves Story County. They maintain a comprehensive, updated list of licensed providers, offer guidance on what to look for during a visit, and explain the state's quality rating system, **Iowa's Quality Rating System (QRS)**. While not all providers participate, a QRS rating (1 to 5 stars) is a strong indicator of quality beyond basic licensing. Additionally, local Facebook groups such as "Kelley, IA Community" or "Ames Area Parents" can be valuable for personal recommendations and learning about smaller, unadvertised in-home providers. The United Way of Story County also supports early childhood initiatives and may have resource information.