The Best Daycare Centers in Ashland, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ashland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ashland
Ashland Preschool and Daycare
Independent
Ashland Preschool and Daycare is the primary local childcare facility serving the Ashland community with a comprehensive early childhood education program. They offer a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy development, math readiness, and social skills. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, certified early childhood educators, and a secure facility with monitored access. Their program emphasizes individualized attention and maintains strong communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal programs.
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Clark County Early Education Center
Clark County USD 287
Operated by Clark County School District, this early education center provides high-quality preschool programming with licensed teachers and certified early childhood specialists. The curriculum follows Kansas Early Learning Standards and focuses on school readiness through structured academic preparation and social-emotional development. The center features specialized learning centers, small group instruction, and comprehensive assessment tracking. Safety protocols include secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and health screening procedures. They offer inclusive programming and collaborate with community resources to support diverse learner needs.
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Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Dodge City (approximately 30 miles from Ashland), Little Sprouts Learning Center serves families throughout the region with a comprehensive childcare program. They implement a research-based curriculum that balances academic preparation with creative expression and physical development. The center features state-licensed teachers, modern security systems including CCTV monitoring, and USDA-approved nutrition programs. Their facilities include dedicated infant rooms, STEM learning labs, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and separate areas for different age groups. The center maintains strong parent partnerships through digital communication platforms and regular family events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ashland, KS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Ashland, Kansas, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Ashland, Kansas, all childcare facilities serving four or more unrelated children must be licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). This includes family daycare homes and group/center-based programs. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the KDHE's online "Child Care Licensing Search" tool or contact the KDHE directly. It's a crucial first step for any parent to ensure the facility operates legally and meets minimum safety standards. Given Ashland's smaller size, most providers will be licensed family homes or potentially a small center.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Ashland, KS, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to Ashland's rural nature and limited number of providers, waitlists can be significant, especially for infants and toddlers. It's not uncommon for popular licensed family homes or the local daycare center to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. We strongly recommend starting your search during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before you need care. Contact providers directly to inquire about their current waitlist length and policy. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Meade or Clark County if you commute.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Ashland, Kansas?
In Ashland and the surrounding rural area, costs are generally lower than in metropolitan Kansas, but availability heavily influences price. For a licensed family daycare home, you can expect to pay approximately $120 to $180 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. A daycare center, if available, may range from $140 to $200 per week. These rates often include meals and basic supplies. It's important to ask what is included and about any additional fees for registration, late pickup, or supplies. Financial assistance may be available through the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) Child Care Subsidy program for eligible families.
Are there any unique childcare options or programs in Ashland that cater to farm families or non-traditional hours?
Yes, Ashland's agricultural community creates specific needs. While standard 6 AM to 6 PM hours are common, some licensed family daycare providers may offer more flexible or extended hours to accommodate early mornings or late evenings during planting and harvest seasons. It's essential to discuss your schedule needs upfront. Additionally, some providers may offer "drop-in" or part-time care, which can be valuable for families with fluctuating schedules. There are also informal networks of babysitters often used for occasional care. For school-age children, the Ashland Unified School District 220 may offer before and after-school programs at the elementary school.
What resources are available in Ashland to help me find and evaluate local daycare options?
The primary resource for Ashland parents is the Child Care Aware of Kansas referral service. You can call their hotline or use their online search to find licensed providers in Clark County. They can provide lists and help with questions about quality indicators. Locally, the Ashland Public Library and the Clark County Health Department often have community bulletin boards with provider information. Networking with other parents at places like the Ashland City Park or through local Facebook community groups (e.g., "Ashland, KS Community") is invaluable for personal recommendations and learning about smaller, in-home providers that may not be widely advertised.