The Best Daycare Centers in Runnells, IA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Runnells. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Runnells
The Goddard School of Altoona
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Altoona offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic learning with creative play. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and provide individualized attention in bright, modern classrooms. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and comprehensive safety protocols. They emphasize STEAM learning, character development, and social-emotional growth through hands-on activities and structured play. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and offers nutritious meal programs.
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Primrose School of Altoona
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Altoona provides Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from degreed early childhood teachers. Their approach focuses on developing the whole child through character development programs, literacy-rich environments, and hands-on learning experiences. The secure facility features dedicated infant rooms, interactive learning centers, and outdoor exploration areas. They maintain rigorous health and safety standards including secured access, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The school emphasizes parent partnerships with daily communication and developmental progress updates.
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Little Explorers Learning Center
Independent Center
Little Explorers Learning Center is a locally-owned childcare facility serving the Greater Des Moines area with play-based curriculum that encourages natural curiosity and development. Their experienced teaching staff holds Child Development Associate credentials and participates in ongoing professional development. The center features age-separated classrooms, large outdoor play spaces, and creative learning stations. They focus on social-emotional development through structured activities and free play, while incorporating early literacy and math concepts. The center maintains excellent safety records with secure facilities, regular sanitation protocols, and small group sizes for personalized attention.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Runnells, IA
What types of licensed childcare options are available in and around Runnells, Iowa?
In Runnells and the surrounding Polk County area, parents typically have access to three main types of licensed childcare: licensed child development homes (in-home care for up to 6 children), licensed childcare centers, and preschool programs. Due to Runnells' small-town setting, most immediate options are likely to be in-home providers. For larger centers or specialized preschool programs, parents often look to nearby communities like Altoona, Pleasant Hill, or Des Moines, which are within a 15-20 minute drive. All providers must be licensed by the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS), which ensures they meet health, safety, and staff training standards. You can search for licensed providers in your specific zip code using the Iowa DHS Child Care Resource & Referral website.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Runnells, and are there any financial assistance programs?
Childcare costs in Runnells are generally reflective of the greater Des Moines metro area. For a licensed child development home (in-home care), you can expect to pay approximately $150-$225 per week for an infant/toddler. Center-based care in nearby towns may range from $200 to $300+ per week. Costs vary based on the child's age, the provider's amenities, and hours of operation. For financial assistance, Iowa offers the Child Care Assistance (CCA) program for eligible families based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). Additionally, many Iowa employers participate in the Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP), which allows for pre-tax payroll deductions for childcare expenses. It's recommended to contact Iowa DHS or your local CCR&R agency to determine your eligibility for aid.
Are waitlists common for daycare providers in Runnells, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists can be common, especially for the more sought-after in-home providers in small communities like Runnells, where options are limited. For infant care spots, which have stricter staff-to-child ratios, waitlists can be particularly long. It is strongly advised to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care, and if you are expecting, to start contacting providers during your second trimester. When you call providers, be sure to ask about their current availability, the length of their waitlist, and if they charge a fee to be placed on it. Exploring options in neighboring towns (Altoona, Bondurant) can increase your chances of finding an opening sooner.
What are the key state of Iowa regulations I should ask about when touring a daycare in Runnells?
Iowa DHS sets clear regulations for all licensed providers. Key standards to inquire about include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 2, 1:6 for 2-year-olds, 1:8 for 3-year-olds), **Background Checks** (all staff and adults in the home must have cleared comprehensive checks), **Health & Safety Training** (providers must complete CPR, First Aid, and mandatory reporter training), and **Annual Licensing Inspections**. You have the right to ask to see the provider's current license and any recent inspection reports. Also, ask about their policies for sick children, emergency preparedness, and outdoor play. A reputable provider will be transparent about these regulations.
What resources are available locally to help me find and evaluate childcare providers in Runnells?
The primary resource is **Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) of Central Iowa**, which serves Polk County. Their specialists can provide free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in Runnells and the surrounding area based on your specific needs (hours, location, budget). They also offer guidance on what to look for during a visit and how to understand inspection reports. You can contact them online or by phone. Additionally, joining local community Facebook groups (e.g., "Runnells Community" or "East Polk County Moms") can be invaluable for getting personal recommendations and experiences from other parents in your immediate area. Always verify any recommended provider is currently licensed with Iowa DHS.