The Best Daycare Centers in Andover, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Andover. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Andover
The Learning Experience - Andover
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Andover offers a comprehensive early education curriculum with proprietary programs like L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) and philanthropy-focused curriculum. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, certified early childhood educators, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. They emphasize cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development through play-based learning, music, and movement activities. The facility includes modern classrooms, indoor play areas, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parent communication is enhanced through regular updates and a dedicated app for daily reports.
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Primrose School of Andover
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Andover follows the Balanced Learning® approach, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and literacy. The school employs degreed early childhood educators who create nurturing, safe environments with low student-teacher ratios. Their curriculum includes music, art, STEM activities, and Spanish language exposure. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. They emphasize partnership with parents through regular communication, parent-teacher conferences, and family events. The school maintains high safety standards with comprehensive background checks and ongoing staff training.
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Children's Learning Center - Andover
Children's Learning Center
Children's Learning Center in Andover provides a well-rounded early childhood education program with a focus on individualized learning and social development. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum® elements with hands-on learning experiences, literacy development, and STEM activities. The center features experienced teachers with early childhood certifications and ongoing professional development. Safety is prioritized with secure access systems, comprehensive emergency protocols, and maintained teacher-child ratios. The facility includes multiple playgrounds, spacious classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated areas for different developmental stages. They offer nutritious meals and maintain strong parent partnerships through daily communication and regular progress reports.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Andover, KS
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Andover, KS, and are there any local resources to help with affordability?
In Andover, KS, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $800 to $1,100 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers and preschoolers, rates typically range from $700 to $950 per month. Home-based daycare providers often offer slightly lower rates, generally between $600 and $850 monthly. To help with affordability, parents in Andover can apply for the Kansas Child Care Subsidy Program through the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF), which provides financial assistance to eligible families. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking with your employer, as some companies in the Wichita metro area offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Andover?
All childcare providers in Kansas, including those in Andover, must be licensed or registered with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). The most reliable way to verify a provider's status and review their compliance history is to use the KDHE's online "Child Care Licensing Survey Lookup" tool. You can search by the provider's name, city, or license number. This public database shows the license type (e.g., Center, Preschool, Family Day Care Home), capacity, any serious violations noted during inspections, and the date of the last survey. For the most current and direct information, you can also contact the KDHE's South Central Regional Office, which oversees Sedgwick and Butler Counties, including Andover. Always choose a provider with a current, active license.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Andover, and what's the best strategy for securing a spot?
Yes, waitlists are very common for daycare centers in Andover, especially for infant rooms and highly-rated preschool programs. The demand often exceeds capacity due to the city's growth and the limited number of large centers. It's not unusual for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months for infants. The best strategy is to start your search early, ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Contact multiple centers to get on their waitlists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$75). Follow up with centers every 2-3 months to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family daycare homes in Andover neighborhoods, as they may have more immediate openings and offer a smaller, home-like setting.
What are the key differences between daycare centers and licensed family homes in Andover, and how do I decide which is right for my child?
In Andover, you'll primarily find two licensed options: Child Care Centers and Licensed Family Day Care Homes. Centers (like Kids 'R' Kids or local church-affiliated centers) are larger facilities with multiple classrooms, structured curricula, and several staff members. They often have stricter schedules and may offer amenities like commercial kitchens and playgrounds. Licensed Family Homes are operated out of a provider's residence, caring for a smaller group of children (up to 10, including the provider's own). They offer a more flexible, home-like environment with mixed-age groups, which can be great for siblings. Centers may provide more socialization with peers of the same age and often have more robust backup staffing. Family homes can offer more personalized care and potentially more flexible hours. Your decision should be based on your child's temperament, your need for schedule flexibility, and the specific philosophy and environment of each individual provider you tour.
Beyond basic licensing, what quality indicators should I look for when touring daycare options in Andover?
While Kansas state licensing sets the minimum health and safety standards, looking for these additional quality indicators will help you find exceptional care in Andover. First, ask about staff qualifications and turnover; low turnover and caregivers with degrees or certificates in Early Childhood Education are strong positives. Observe the caregiver-to-child ratios—lower than the state maximum is ideal. Look for a clean, safe, and engaging environment with ample age-appropriate toys and books. A clear daily schedule that balances structured activities, free play, and outdoor time (utilizing safe, fenced playgrounds) is important. Ask about their philosophy on discipline, communication with parents (many use apps like Brightwheel or Tadpoles), and emergency procedures. Finally, trust your instincts during the tour—notice if the children seem happy and engaged and if the staff interact warmly and respectfully with them. Local recommendations from other Andover parents are also invaluable.