The Best Daycare Centers in Ellis, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ellis. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ellis
Ellis Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Ellis Daycare & Preschool is a locally-owned facility serving Ellis families with comprehensive early childhood programs. The center features a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy, math, and social skills development. Certified early childhood educators maintain low teacher-to-child ratios, with all staff trained in CPR and first aid. The facility includes secure indoor classrooms, age-appropriate outdoor play areas, and provides nutritious meals and snacks. What sets this center apart is their strong community integration and individualized attention to each child's developmental needs, with regular progress reports and parent-teacher conferences.
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The Goddard School of Hays
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Hays serves families throughout Ellis County with a F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. The center features state-certified teachers with bachelor's degrees in education, security-coded entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and character education in purpose-built classrooms. The facility offers extended hours and serves as a popular choice for Ellis commuters, with parents praising the professional staff, clean environment, and strong educational foundation provided.
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Kiddie Kollege Child Care Center
Independent
Kiddie Kollege Child Care Center has served Ellis County families for nearly two decades with a comprehensive early childhood program. The center utilizes Creative Curriculum® with emphasis on hands-on learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness skills. Features include certified early childhood teachers, secure facility with camera monitoring, large outdoor playgrounds, and USDA-approved meal program. The center is known for its family-oriented atmosphere, experienced staff with low turnover, and flexible scheduling options that accommodate working parents from Ellis and surrounding communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ellis, KS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Ellis, Kansas, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Ellis, 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, background checks, and training. To verify a facility's compliance, you can use the KDHE's online "Child Care Licensing Lookup" tool. You can also contact the KDHE's Northwest Regional Office, which oversees Ellis County, for specific records or to inquire about any recent inspections or violations. It's always recommended to ask the provider directly for their current license and to visit the facility to observe conditions firsthand.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Ellis, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Ellis and the surrounding rural area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $120 to $180 per week, while toddler care may be slightly lower, around $110 to $160 per week. These costs can vary based on the type of facility (in-home vs. center), the provider's experience, and included services like meals. 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 work or education requirements. Parents in Ellis can apply online through the DCF website or get assistance from the Ellis County Department of Social Services. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers in Ellis, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed providers in a smaller community like Ellis, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care spots. It's not unusual for popular centers or highly recommended in-home providers to have waitlists of 3 to 9 months. We strongly recommend starting your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6 months before you need care. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on their waitlists (which may require a small fee), and check in periodically. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Hays, which may have more options but will involve commuting.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Ellis, KS?
Ellis primarily offers two types of licensed childcare: Family Child Care Homes and Licensed Child Care Centers. Family homes are smaller, often run by a single provider in their residence, offering a more home-like environment for a mixed-age group (typically up to 10 children). Centers are larger facilities, often with multiple staff and classrooms separated by age. Given Ellis's size, family daycare homes are particularly prevalent. There are also limited options for preschool programs, which may be part of a daycare center or offered separately. Due to the rural setting, options like large corporate chains or 24-hour care are generally not available locally.
Are there any unique seasonal or agricultural considerations for childcare schedules in Ellis?
Yes, as a community in an agricultural region, some childcare providers in Ellis may have schedules or policies that reflect local harvest and planting seasons. Some in-home providers who are part of farming families might adjust their hours or close temporarily during peak times like wheat harvest (typically late May through June) or fall harvest. It's crucial to ask potential providers about their annual schedule and any planned closures. Conversely, some parents working in agriculture may need more flexible or extended hours during these busy seasons. Discussing your specific family schedule needs upfront is essential to find a compatible provider.