The Best Daycare Centers in Assaria, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Assaria. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Assaria
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Salina is renowned for its balanced learning approach, blending play-based activities with structured curriculum to foster cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. The center employs highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and CPR/first-aid certification. Safety is prioritized with secured entry systems, regular cleanliness protocols, and age-appropriate learning environments. The curriculum includes literacy, math, science, and creative arts, with nutritious meal programs and outdoor play areas. Parent communication is emphasized through daily updates and family engagement events, making it a trusted choice for families in the Assaria area.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Salina offers a play-based learning curriculum focused on literacy, STEM, and arts, designed to encourage curiosity and independence. With low student-teacher ratios and staff holding degrees in early childhood education, the center ensures personalized attention and developmental milestone tracking. The facility features safe, clean classrooms, outdoor play spaces, and a secure environment with keypad access. Parents appreciate the regular communication, inclusive atmosphere, and flexible scheduling options, contributing to high satisfaction and a strong reputation for serving the Assaria community.
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Salina Montessori School
Independent
Salina Montessori School provides a child-directed Montessori education, emphasizing hands-on learning, independence, and respect for individual development in mixed-age classrooms. Teachers are Montessori-certified and trained in fostering cognitive and social skills through prepared environments with natural materials. The facility includes outdoor gardens, practical life areas, and culturally diverse activities, ensuring a holistic approach. Safety measures include supervised play and hygienic practices. With a focus on parent collaboration and developmental progress reports, this center is a highly regarded option for families seeking alternative education near Assaria.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Assaria, KS
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Assaria, Kansas?
In Assaria, Kansas, parents primarily have access to two types of licensed childcare: Family Child Care Homes and Licensed Child Care Centers. Given Assaria's small, rural community, Family Child Care Homes are the most common. These are licensed providers caring for a smaller group of children (typically up to 10) in their own residence, offering a home-like environment. Licensed Centers, which care for larger groups, are less common within the city limits, so many families look to nearby larger towns like Salina (about 15 miles away) for center-based options. All providers must be licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), which sets standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and training. You can verify a provider's license status through the KDHE website.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Assaria, and are there financial assistance programs?
In Assaria and the surrounding Saline County area, childcare costs are generally lower than the state average but can vary. For a Family Child Care Home, full-time care for an infant or toddler typically ranges from $120 to $180 per week. Preschool-age care might be slightly less. Costs at centers in nearby Salina can be higher, often $150-$250+ per week. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the Kansas Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). It's crucial to apply early, as there can be a waitlist. Local providers can often guide you through the application process.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Assaria, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Assaria, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care spots which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is highly recommended to begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and if you are expecting, to start inquiring during your second trimester. Many local in-home providers have a small, consistent capacity, so openings may only occur when a child ages out or a family moves. Being proactive, networking with other parents in the community, and getting on multiple waitlists (including in nearby Salina) can significantly improve your chances of securing a spot when you need it.
What should I look for or ask about when touring a daycare provider in Assaria?
When touring a potential childcare provider in Assaria, go beyond the basics. First, confirm their KDHE license is current and ask to see any recent inspection reports. Ask specific questions about their daily schedule, philosophy on discipline and learning, and policies on sick children. Given the rural setting, inquire about their emergency preparedness plan for severe weather. Observe how staff interact with the children—are they engaged and responsive? Ask about staff qualifications, tenure (low turnover is a good sign), and their backup plan if the primary provider is ill. For in-home providers, ensure the designated childcare areas are safe, clean, and child-proofed. Don't hesitate to ask for references from current or former parents.
Are there any part-time, drop-in, or after-school care options for school-age children in Assaria?
Options for part-time, drop-in, or after-school care are very limited within Assaria itself due to the scale of available services. The Southeast of Saline Unified School District 306, which serves Assaria, may offer limited after-school programs at the elementary school, but this is not guaranteed and space is limited. For more flexible or part-time care, parents often need to look to providers in Salina, which may offer after-school pickup services. Some Assaria-based Family Child Care Homes might offer before/after-school care for a small number of children, but you must inquire directly as these spots are rare. Planning and arranging such care well in advance is essential, and carpooling with other local families can be a practical solution.