The Best Daycare Centers in Moorland, IA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Moorland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Moorland
The Goddard School of Fort Dodge
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Fort Dodge offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their highly qualified teachers implement age-appropriate curriculum focusing on literacy, STEM, social-emotional development, and creative arts. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms with observation windows, and age-appropriate playgrounds. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide daily communication through their proprietary app. The center is known for its comprehensive safety protocols, nutritious meal programs, and extensive enrichment activities including yoga, music, and Spanish exposure.
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Kiddie Korner Child Care & Preschool
Independent
Kiddie Korner has served the Fort Dodge community for over 15 years with a reputation for nurturing care and strong educational foundations. Their comprehensive curriculum includes Creative Curriculum for infants and toddlers and HighScope for preschool ages, emphasizing active participatory learning. The center features secure facilities with coded entry, age-separated playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. Staff members maintain CPR/First Aid certifications and receive ongoing professional development. Parents consistently praise the center's family-like atmosphere, experienced teachers, and excellent communication. They offer flexible scheduling and provide meals meeting USDA nutritional guidelines.
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Little Angels Learning Center
Independent
Little Angels Learning Center provides quality childcare with a focus on Christian values and academic preparation. Their curriculum integrates faith-based learning with Iowa Early Learning Standards, preparing children for kindergarten success. The center features modern security systems, spacious classrooms with natural lighting, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. Teachers implement individualized learning plans and maintain detailed developmental portfolios. The center is noted for its strong parent-teacher partnerships, regular progress reports, and community involvement. They offer extended hours to accommodate working families and maintain excellent staff retention rates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Moorland, IA
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Moorland, Iowa?
In Moorland, Iowa, parents primarily have access to two types of licensed childcare: Registered Child Development Homes (often run by a provider in their own residence) and Licensed Child Care Centers. Due to Moorland's small, rural nature, home-based providers are the most common. There are no large commercial daycare centers within the city limits itself. Many families also utilize providers in nearby larger towns like Fort Dodge (about 15 minutes away), which offer center-based options. All providers must be registered or licensed through the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which ensures they meet health, safety, and developmental standards.
How much does childcare typically cost in Moorland, and are there financial assistance programs?
In the Moorland area, costs for full-time childcare in a registered home setting typically range from $120 to $180 per week per child, depending on the child's age and the services included. Infant care is often at the higher end. Costs in centers in nearby Fort Dodge can be higher, averaging $180-$250 per week. Iowa offers financial assistance through the Child Care Assistance (CCA) program for eligible families based on income, household size, and need (such as employment or education). You can apply through the Iowa HHS. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts, and all Iowa families can benefit from federal tax credits for childcare expenses.
Are there long waitlists for childcare in Moorland, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Given the limited number of providers in a small community like Moorland, availability can be tight, and waitlists are common, especially for infant and toddler spots. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care. For infant care, starting 6-12 months in advance is not unusual. The best way to find current openings is to contact providers directly. You can use the statewide search tool on the Iowa HHS website or contact local resources like the Community and Family Resources network in Webster County for referrals to licensed providers in and around Moorland.
What specific state licensing requirements and safety standards should I verify for a Moorland daycare?
Iowa law requires all childcare providers caring for more than 5 children (or any number of children from more than one unrelated family for compensation) to be registered or licensed. Key standards you can verify include: background checks for all adults in the home/center, annual health and safety inspections (including fire and environmental health), age-appropriate child-to-staff ratios, safe sleep practices for infants, and ongoing training in topics like CPR, First Aid, and Mandatory Reporter training for child abuse. You can ask any provider for their license/registration number and verify their status and any history of non-compliance through the Iowa HHS Provider Search portal.
What resources are available in Moorland to help me evaluate and choose a quality childcare provider?
While Moorland is small, parents have several key resources. First, use the Iowa HHS "Child Care Provider Search" to find and verify licensed providers. Second, you can contact the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency serving Webster County, which can provide referrals and guidance on what to look for. Third, schedule in-person visits and ask providers specific questions about their daily schedule, discipline policy, meal plans, and emergency procedures. In a tight-knit community, talking to other local parents is an invaluable resource for firsthand recommendations and experiences. Also, inquire if the provider participates in Iowa's Quality Rating System (QRS), a voluntary program that indicates a higher level of quality standards.