The Best Daycare Centers in Columbus, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Columbus. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Columbus
Little Angels Daycare
Independent
Little Angels Daycare is Columbus' highest-rated local childcare facility, offering a comprehensive developmental program for children from infancy through school age. Their curriculum emphasizes early literacy, social-emotional development, and hands-on learning experiences. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios with qualified staff who receive ongoing training in early childhood education. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and a nutrition program that provides healthy meals and snacks. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and the center's commitment to each child's individual growth and development.
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ABC Child Development Center
ABC Learning Centers
Located in nearby Pittsburg (approximately 15 minutes from Columbus), ABC Child Development Center serves families throughout Cherokee County with a research-based curriculum that prepares children for academic success. The center features state-certified teachers, modern security systems including keypad entry and surveillance, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. Their educational approach balances structured learning with creative exploration, focusing on literacy, STEM concepts, and social skills. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and a comprehensive preschool program with kindergarten readiness assessment. Transportation services are available for school-age children in the Columbus area.
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Wee Care Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Wee Care Daycare in Girard (approximately 20 minutes from Columbus) has built an outstanding reputation over nearly two decades of service to Southeast Kansas families. The center offers a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates Montessori-inspired elements and structured academic preparation. Their qualified teaching staff maintains small class sizes and individualized attention, with continuous progress reporting to parents. The facility features secure, age-separated play areas, modern learning materials, and a focus on character development alongside academic skills. Wee Care provides transportation for school-age children and offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate working families from Columbus and surrounding communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Columbus, KS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Columbus, Kansas, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Columbus, 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, group daycare homes, and childcare centers. 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 "Child Care Licensing Search" tool on their official website. You can search by provider name, city (Columbus), or county (Cherokee). It's highly recommended to check this before enrolling your child, as it provides the most current information on a facility's compliance and any past violations.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Columbus, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Columbus and the surrounding Cherokee County area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $120 to $180 per week. For toddlers, costs may be slightly lower, around $110 to $160 per week. Family daycare homes often offer more affordable rates. These costs are generally lower than the state average, reflecting the area's cost of living. 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 education). You can apply online through the DCF website or contact the Southeast Kansas Economic Opportunity Center (SEKEOC), which serves Cherokee County, for application assistance and information on other local resources.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Columbus, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Columbus, waitlists for preferred daycare centers, especially for infants, can be significant. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 3 to 6 months long, and sometimes longer for highly-regarded facilities. We strongly recommend starting your search during pregnancy, ideally in the second trimester. Contact centers to get on their interest lists as early as possible. Be prepared to put down a deposit to secure a future spot. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family daycare homes in Columbus and nearby communities like Baxter Springs or Galena, as they may have more immediate availability and offer a smaller, home-like setting.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in Columbus USD 493?
Columbus USD 493 provides a School-Age Child Care (SACC) program for students in grades K-6. This program operates at the elementary school, offering care before school from around 6:30 AM until the start of the school day and after school until 6:00 PM. The program includes homework help, snacks, and structured activities. Space can be limited, so early registration is advised. For middle school students, options are more limited. Some local daycare centers and family homes in Columbus may offer transportation to/from school and care for older children. Additionally, community organizations like the Columbus Public Library or the Columbus Recreation Commission may offer seasonal camps and programs on school holidays and during the summer.
Are there any daycare facilities in Columbus that offer specialized care, such as for children with allergies or developmental needs?
While specialized resources are more concentrated in larger metropolitan areas, some providers in Columbus are equipped to handle specific needs. Many licensed providers are trained in administering medications and managing food allergies, but you must discuss your child's Individual Health Plan in detail during tours. For developmental needs, inquire about staff training in inclusive practices. The Southeast Kansas Education Service Center (Greenbush), which serves the region, can be a resource for providers seeking training. For more significant needs, parents may need to look toward facilities in Joplin, Missouri, or Pittsburg, Kansas, which are within commuting distance and offer more specialized programs. Always check with the Kansas Infant-Toddler Services program or Families Together, Inc. for early intervention support that can be provided in the childcare setting.