The Best Daycare Centers in Fostoria, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fostoria. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fostoria
The Goddard School of Olathe
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Olathe offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness while developing social, emotional, and physical skills. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides regular developmental assessments and parent communication.
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Primrose School of Olathe
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Olathe follows the Balanced Learning® approach, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. Their curriculum includes literacy, math, science, social studies, and creative arts, delivered by degreed early childhood educators. The school features secure facilities with coded entry, dedicated age-specific playgrounds, and nutritionally balanced meals. They emphasize partnership with parents through regular communication, progress reports, and family events.
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The Learning Experience - Olathe
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Olathe utilizes their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, mathematics, science, and social studies through play-based learning. Their programs include early literacy development, manners and etiquette, and foreign language exposure. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, age-appropriate learning environments, and outdoor playgrounds. All lead teachers meet or exceed state qualifications, and the center maintains strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fostoria, KS
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Fostoria, Kansas?
In Fostoria, Kansas, parents primarily have access to two types of licensed childcare options: family childcare homes and center-based programs. Given Fostoria's small, rural community, family childcare homes are the most common. These are licensed providers who care for a smaller group of children, typically up to 10, in their own residence, offering a home-like environment. Center-based care is less prevalent locally and may require commuting to nearby larger towns like Holton or Topeka. 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 curriculum. You can verify a provider's license status and inspection reports through the KDHE website.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Fostoria, and is there any financial assistance available?
In Fostoria and the surrounding rural area, childcare costs are generally lower than in metropolitan Kansas City, but availability heavily influences price. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $120 to $180 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. Preschool-age care may be slightly less. Costs can vary based on the provider's experience, hours, and whether meals are included. 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). Local providers can often guide you through the application process, and you can also contact the Northeast Kansas Community Action Program (NEK-CAP) for support.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Fostoria, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small community like Fostoria, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search at least 3 to 6 months before their needed start date, and even earlier if possible. Many family childcare homes have limited capacity (e.g., only 2 infants under 18 months), so spots fill quickly. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current availability and typical waitlist timeframe. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances. Expanding your search to include providers in neighboring communities such as Netawaka or Hoyt may also provide more options.
What should I look for when touring a family childcare home in Fostoria?
When touring a family childcare home in Fostoria, go beyond the basic licensing check. Observe the environment: Is it clean, safe, and child-proofed? Are there adequate indoor and outdoor play spaces? Ask about the daily schedule, educational philosophy, and how they handle discipline. Inquire about their emergency preparedness plan for severe weather common in Kansas, like tornadoes. Given the rural setting, ask about their policy on screen time and how they incorporate learning through nature and play. Crucially, request references from current or former parents. A good provider will be transparent about their KDHE license, have clear policies on sick children, and communicate openly about their experience and training in early childhood education.
What resources are available in Fostoria to help me find and evaluate licensed childcare providers?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare in Kansas is the online "Kansas Child Care Search" tool maintained by KDHE. You can search by location (using Fostoria's zip code, 66436) and filter by type of care, ages served, and hours. For personalized assistance, you can contact a Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency. For Fostoria, this service is provided by the Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities (KCCTO), which serves the northeast region. They can provide referrals, information on licensing, and guidance on what to look for in a provider. Additionally, local community boards at the Fostoria Township Library or the Holton Recorder newspaper may list openings, and word-of-mouth through local parent networks is invaluable in a small town.