The Best Daycare Centers in Scranton, IA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Scranton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Scranton
Scranton Childcare Center
Independent
Scranton Childcare Center is a locally-owned facility serving the Scranton community with comprehensive early childhood programs. The center focuses on developmentally appropriate practices with a play-based learning approach that incorporates literacy, math readiness, and social skills. Their qualified staff maintains low teacher-to-child ratios, and the facility features secure access, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. What makes this center stand out is its strong community integration and flexible scheduling options that accommodate local families' agricultural and work schedules.
Daycare Services:
New Horizon Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Located in nearby Carroll (approximately 15 miles from Scranton), New Horizon Preschool & Childcare serves families throughout Carroll County with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes early literacy, STEM exploration, and social-emotional development. The center features state-certified teachers, secure keypad entry systems, and modern learning environments with interactive technology. Their comprehensive program includes regular developmental assessments, parent-teacher conferences, and enrichment activities. The center is particularly noted for its strong kindergarten readiness program and inclusive environment.
Daycare Services:
Little Blessings Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Serving families from Scranton and surrounding communities (approximately 20 miles away), Little Blessings offers a nurturing Christian-based environment combined with high-quality educational programming. The center utilizes Creative Curriculum with integrated faith-based values, focusing on whole-child development through hands-on learning centers, music, and movement activities. Their qualified staff maintains ongoing professional development, and the facility includes secure monitoring systems, age-segregated playgrounds, and nutritious meal service. The center is distinguished by its strong parent communication system and community outreach programs.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Scranton, IA
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Scranton, Iowa, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Iowa, all childcare centers and registered home providers must be licensed by the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS). Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff training. For Scranton specifically, you can verify a provider's license status and review any past non-compliance reports through the DHS "Child Care Provider Search" website. It's also a good practice to ask the provider directly for their license number and their most recent inspection report. Local providers in Scranton and Greene County are also subject to fire marshal and health department inspections. The DHS sets different standards for child development homes (smaller in-home care) and childcare centers, so understanding which type you're considering is important.
How much does full-time daycare typically cost for an infant or toddler in Scranton, IA?
Childcare costs in Scranton are generally lower than in Iowa's larger urban areas but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately $150 to $200 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. A registered child development home (in-home care) may range from $120 to $170 per week. These are estimates, and rates can differ based on the provider's amenities, meal programs, and curriculum. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., diapers, wipes, formula, meals). For financial assistance, Iowa offers the Child Care Assistance (CCA) program for eligible families, which can be applied for through the Greene County DHS office.
Are there long waitlists for daycare openings in Scranton, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to Scranton's smaller size and limited number of providers, quality daycare spots can be limited and may have waitlists, especially for infants. It is highly recommended to begin your search during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before you need care. Many local providers maintain a rolling waitlist. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to be on it? How often do they update families on their position? Exploring options in nearby towns like Jefferson or Carroll can provide more alternatives if Scranton waitlists are full. Building a relationship with a provider early is key in this community.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available in Scranton, Iowa?
Scranton primarily offers two types of licensed childcare: Registered Child Development Homes and Licensed Childcare Centers. Child Development Homes are typically run out of a provider's residence and offer a smaller, family-like setting for a mixed-age group, often with more flexible hours. Licensed Centers are dedicated facilities, like the Scranton Childcare Center, which may offer more structured preschool curricula and separate classrooms by age. Given the rural setting, there are fewer large corporate chains; most options are locally owned and operated. Additionally, the Scranton Community School District offers preschool programs for 4-year-olds, which may be a part-day option to supplement other care.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare facility in Scranton, and what local-specific questions should I ask?
During a tour, observe cleanliness, safety (outlet covers, secure exits), child engagement, and staff-child interactions. Specifically for Scranton, ask about their plan for severe weather, given Iowa's tornado risk—where is their safe room? Inquire about their policy for school closure days (e.g., snow days) if you have school-age children, as this impacts your care. Ask how they incorporate local community events, like the Scranton Sesquicentennial or trips to the city park. Also, given the agricultural surroundings, ask about their outdoor play area safety and policies regarding field trips. Finally, ask for references from other local parents to get a community perspective on the provider's reliability and quality.