The Best Daycare Centers in Sherrill, IA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sherrill. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sherrill
KinderCare Learning Center at Asbury
KinderCare Education
This nationally accredited KinderCare center offers comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum including phonics, math, science, and social skills development. Features secure entry systems, trained teaching staff with early childhood credentials, and age-appropriate learning environments. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent communication through mobile app updates, and developmentally appropriate playgrounds. Serves families throughout the Dubuque area including Sherrill residents.
Daycare Services:
Little Saints Academy
Little Saints Educational Center
A highly-rated faith-based childcare center offering comprehensive early childhood programs with strong emphasis on academic preparation and character development. Features low student-teacher ratios, state-licensed educators, and structured curriculum that includes literacy, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. The facility includes secure monitoring systems, modern classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Known for exceptional parent satisfaction and strong community reputation throughout the Dubuque metropolitan area.
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The Goddard School of Dubuque
Goddard Systems, Inc.
This nationally recognized franchise offers play-based learning with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Features highly qualified teachers with early childhood degrees, secure facility with keypad entry, and age-appropriate learning centers. The curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, and creative arts with regular progress reports for parents. Serves families throughout the greater Dubuque region with comprehensive safety protocols and modern educational resources.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sherrill, IA
What types of licensed childcare options are available in and around Sherrill, Iowa?
In Sherrill, a small unincorporated community in Dubuque County, your primary licensed childcare options are typically in-home daycare providers (also known as Family Child Care Homes) registered with the State of Iowa. Due to the rural nature of the area, there are no large childcare centers within Sherrill itself. Parents often look to nearby towns like Holy Cross, Luxemburg, or Dubuque for licensed childcare centers or preschool programs. All licensed providers in Iowa are regulated by the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS), which sets standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and training. You can search for licensed providers in Dubuque County through the Iowa DHS online childcare provider search tool.
How can I find and vet in-home daycare providers in Sherrill, and what should I look for during a visit?
Finding in-home providers in a small community like Sherrill often relies on local networks. Start by asking for recommendations from neighbors, local churches (like St. Joseph's in nearby Rickardsville), or community boards. Crucially, always verify a provider's current license or registration status with Iowa DHS. During a visit, ask to see their registration certificate. Observe the home's safety: Are cleaning supplies and medications locked away? Are there safe outdoor play areas? Ask about their daily schedule, meal plans, discipline philosophy, and backup plans for their own illness. Inquire about their training in CPR, First Aid, and Mandatory Child Abuse Reporter training, which are required by Iowa law. Given the close-knit community, also ask for references from other local families.
What is the typical cost for daycare in Sherrill and Dubuque County, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
Childcare costs in rural Dubuque County like Sherrill are generally lower than in urban Dubuque, but availability is more limited. For a licensed in-home provider, you might expect to pay between $120-$180 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. Rates can vary based on the provider's experience, hours, and if meals are included. Iowa offers financial assistance through the Child Care Assistance (CCA) program for eligible families based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). You apply through the Dubuque County DHS office. Additionally, all Iowa families can benefit from the state's Child Care Tax Credit and the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit to help offset costs.
Are there any part-time, drop-in, or after-school care options for school-age children in the Sherrill area?
Options for part-time or school-age care in Sherrill itself are extremely limited. The local children attend the Western Dubuque Community School District (likely Epworth or Farley elementary schools). Some in-home providers in the area may offer before- or after-school care and transportation to/from the bus stop, but this must be arranged individually. For more structured after-school programs, parents typically need to look at options in larger nearby towns. Some providers may offer flexible or drop-in care, but this is uncommon and usually requires pre-registration. Building a relationship with a local in-home provider is often the best strategy for securing occasional or non-standard hour care in a rural setting like Sherrill.
What are the waitlist situations like for childcare in Sherrill, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small community, waitlists for quality in-home daycare in Sherrill and the immediate vicinity can be long and unpredictable. A single provider may only have capacity for 6-8 children (including their own). It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy, at least 6-12 months before their needed start date. When you contact a provider, ask directly about current availability and their waitlist policy. Be prepared to put down a deposit to hold a spot. Given the scarcity, it's wise to get on multiple waitlists with providers in Sherrill and the surrounding towns. Networking with other local parents can also give you early notice if a spot is about to open up.