The Best Daycare Centers in Windsor Heights, IA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Windsor Heights. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Windsor Heights
Primrose School of West Des Moines
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of West Des Moines offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their approach focuses on character development, literacy, math, science, and social studies through hands-on learning experiences. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes partnership with families through regular communication and parent resources, serving many Windsor Heights families with their comprehensive early education programs.
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The Goddard School of West Des Moines
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in West Des Moines provides a play-based learning environment with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic, social, and emotional development. Their curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and creative arts with daily lesson plans. The facility features secure keypad entry, CCTV monitoring, and sanitization protocols. All teachers are qualified early childhood educators who participate in continuous training. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and offers enrichment programs including yoga, music, and Spanish, making it a popular choice for Windsor Heights families seeking quality childcare.
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Valley West Child Care Center
Valley Church
Valley West Child Care Center operates as a ministry of Valley Church, providing Christ-centered early childhood education with a comprehensive developmental curriculum. Their program focuses on cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual growth through age-appropriate activities and structured learning centers. The facility includes secure access controls, modern classrooms, and extensive outdoor play areas. Staff members are trained in early childhood education and first aid/CPR certified. The center emphasizes creating a nurturing environment with small class sizes and individualized attention, serving many Windsor Heights families with flexible scheduling options and extended hours.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Windsor Heights, IA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Windsor Heights, IA?
In Windsor Heights and the surrounding Des Moines metro area, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. For toddlers, you can expect to pay slightly less, generally between $1,000 and $1,400 per month. These rates are for licensed daycare centers; in-home licensed family childcare providers may offer lower rates, often between $800 and $1,200 monthly. It's important to note that costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. We recommend contacting providers directly for their most current rates and inquiring about any potential registration or supply fees.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Windsor Heights is properly licensed and what should I look for in their inspection records?
All childcare providers in Iowa must be licensed or registered by the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a provider's status and view their latest inspection reports through the DHS Child Care Provider Search portal online. When reviewing a Windsor Heights provider, look for their license type (Child Development Home or Child Care Center), their current status (which should be "Active"), and any stipulations. Pay close attention to the "Complaint and Non-Compliance" section of their inspection history. You can also contact the local DHS office for the Des Moines region for additional information. A reputable center will also be happy to show you their license and discuss their compliance history in person.
Are there any local resources or referral services in Windsor Heights to help me find and compare childcare options?
Yes, the primary resource for parents in Windsor Heights is Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) of Central Iowa. This free service, funded in part by the state, maintains a comprehensive database of licensed and registered providers in Polk County. They can help you search based on your specific needs (location, hours, age of child, etc.), explain Iowa's childcare regulations, and provide guidance on what to look for during a visit. You can access their services online or by phone. Additionally, the City of Windsor Heights website and local community Facebook groups often have discussions and recommendations from other parents in the area.
What is the typical waitlist situation for daycare centers in Windsor Heights, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to high demand for quality childcare in the Des Moines suburbs, many sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Windsor Heights have waitlists, especially for infant rooms. It is very common for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long for infants. For toddler and preschool-age spots, waitlists may be shorter, around 3-6 months. We strongly recommend starting your search and making inquiries at least 9-12 months before you need care. When you tour a facility, always ask about their specific waitlist policy: Is there a fee to be on it? How often do they update parents on their position? Do they offer priority to siblings of current families?
Beyond basic licensing, are there quality indicators or accreditations specific to Iowa that I should look for in a Windsor Heights childcare program?
Absolutely. The gold standard in Iowa is the "Quality Rating System," known as **Iowa's Quality Rating System (QRS)** or **Iowa's Quality Child Care System**. This is a voluntary, star-rated system (1 to 5 stars) that evaluates programs on criteria higher than basic licensing, including staff education, learning environments, and family engagement. A center with a QRS rating has undergone a rigorous assessment. Another key indicator is participation in the **Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)**, which ensures meals meet federal nutrition guidelines. Also, look for programs with staff who have credentials from the **Iowa Afterschool Alliance** or endorsements in the **Iowa Early Learning Standards**. These demonstrate a commitment to professional development and high-quality early education.
Nearby Cities
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