The Best Daycare Centers in Augusta, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Augusta. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Augusta
Little Bulldogs Learning Center
Augusta School District USD 402
As part of the Augusta School District, Little Bulldogs Learning Center offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with certified teachers and a structured curriculum aligned with Kansas early learning standards. The center features age-appropriate learning environments, secure facilities with controlled access, and a play-based educational approach that emphasizes social-emotional development. Their program includes nutritious meals, outdoor play areas, and strong parent-teacher communication. What sets them apart is their seamless transition to Augusta public schools and their integration with community resources.
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Primrose School of Andover
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Andover serves families in the Augusta area with their nationally recognized Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, highly qualified teachers with early childhood credentials, and dedicated learning spaces for each age group. Their approach emphasizes character development, literacy, and STEM foundations through hands-on activities. The facility includes multiple playgrounds, a commercial kitchen providing healthy meals, and regular parent communication through their exclusive app. Many Augusta families commute to this highly-regarded center for its exceptional educational quality.
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The Goddard School of West Wichita
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of West Wichita serves Augusta families with their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that promotes academic readiness and social development. The center features secure entry systems, highly trained teachers with ongoing professional development, and spacious classrooms with modern learning materials. Their play-based curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, and creative arts, with daily progress reports shared with parents. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, on-site kitchen for nutritious meals, and enrichment programs like yoga and foreign language exposure. Many Augusta parents choose this center for its comprehensive educational approach and strong safety protocols.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Augusta, KS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Augusta, Kansas, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Augusta, 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 center-based programs. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and facility safety. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the KDHE's online "Child Care Licensing Lookup" tool. It's highly recommended to check this before enrolling your child, as it provides the facility's current license status, any history of violations, and the results of their most recent inspection. You can also contact the KDHE South Central District Office, which serves Butler County, for additional information.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Augusta, KS, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Augusta and the surrounding Butler County area, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, often between $130 and $200 per week. Family childcare homes may offer more affordable rates, sometimes $20-$40 less per week. These costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and hours of operation. For financial assistance, Kansas offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through the Department for Children and Families (DCF). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or attending school). Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Augusta, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Waitlists for infant and toddler spots at licensed daycare centers in Augusta can vary significantly. For highly sought-after centers, waitlists of 6 to 12 months are not uncommon, especially for infants. For preschool-age children, the wait is often shorter, typically 1-3 months. To improve your chances, it's advisable to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their list: Is there a fee to be on it? How often do they update families? Do they offer guaranteed enrollment for siblings of current students? Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family daycare homes in residential areas of Augusta, as they may have more immediate openings and offer a smaller, home-like setting.
What are some key local factors to consider when touring a daycare facility in Augusta, specifically related to safety and preparedness?
Beyond standard safety checks, Augusta parents should consider a few local factors. First, inquire about severe weather preparedness. Kansas is in Tornado Alley, so ask to see the designated severe weather shelter area and the facility's specific drill and communication plan for tornado warnings. Second, given Augusta's proximity to rural and agricultural areas, some facilities may have outdoor play spaces. Ask about their policies for pesticide application on adjacent properties and sun safety. Third, check for clear pickup/dropoff procedures, especially for facilities near busy roads like Highway 54 or State Street. Finally, ask about their sick child policy and how they handle common childhood illnesses to minimize outbreaks in a smaller community setting.
Are there part-time, drop-in, or evening/weekend childcare options available in Augusta for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Finding consistent part-time, drop-in, or evening/weekend care in Augusta can be challenging, as most licensed centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. However, options do exist. Some family childcare homes may offer more flexible hours or part-time slots. For occasional evening or weekend care, your best bet is to inquire with local babysitting networks, often organized through community Facebook groups like "Augusta, KS Community" or through connections at Augusta's churches or the Augusta Public Library. For reliable part-time care (e.g., 2-3 days a week), be prepared to pay a premium or a higher weekly rate, and start your search well in advance, as these spots are limited.