The Best Daycare Centers in Frankfort, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Frankfort. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Frankfort
Little Learners Preschool
Little Learners Preschool
Little Learners Preschool is Frankfort's premier early childhood education center, offering a comprehensive preschool program that focuses on school readiness and developmental milestones. The center employs state-licensed early childhood educators who implement a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills. Their small class sizes ensure personalized attention, and the facility features age-appropriate learning centers, structured play areas, and a secure environment. The program emphasizes social-emotional development through group activities and cooperative play, preparing children for kindergarten success while maintaining strong communication with parents about each child's progress.
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Stepping Stones Early Learning Center
Stepping Stones Early Learning Center
Located in nearby Seneca (approximately 15 miles from Frankfort), Stepping Stones Early Learning Center serves families throughout Marshall County with a comprehensive early childhood program. The center features a research-based curriculum that balances academic preparation with developmental appropriateness, including Creative Curriculum for infants and toddlers and a structured preschool program. Certified early childhood teachers provide individualized learning experiences in secure, modern classrooms equipped with learning centers for literacy, STEM, creative arts, and sensory development. The center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios, employs rigorous safety protocols including secure entry systems, and offers nutritional meal programs. Their before/after school program provides transportation to local elementary schools.
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Centralia Early Learning Center
Centralia Early Learning Center
Serving families throughout the region including Frankfort (approximately 20 miles away), Centralia Early Learning Center has built an outstanding reputation for quality childcare and early education. The center employs degreed early childhood professionals who implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum focusing on literacy development, mathematical thinking, scientific exploration, and creative expression. Their infant program emphasizes attachment-based care with individualized schedules, while their preschool program prepares children for kindergarten through structured learning activities and social development opportunities. The facility features secure, age-separated classrooms, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and comprehensive health and safety protocols. Parents appreciate the regular communication, developmental assessments, and family involvement opportunities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Frankfort, KS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Frankfort, Kansas, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Frankfort, Kansas, all childcare facilities serving more than three 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 online "Child Care Licensing Lookup" tool. It's highly recommended to check this database, as it will show the license type, capacity, any history of violations, and whether the license is current. For very small in-home care situations (three or fewer children), providers are not required to be licensed but can choose to become registered, which involves a basic health and safety review.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost for an infant or toddler in Frankfort, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Frankfort and the surrounding Marshall County area, full-time childcare costs can vary. For a licensed daycare center, you might expect to pay between $600 to $850 per month for an infant/toddler. In-home family daycare is often slightly less, ranging from $500 to $700 per month. These rates are generally lower than in major Kansas metros but are significant for local family budgets. 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). Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts. It's advisable to contact the DCF office or the local Child Care Resource & Referral agency for the most current application information and eligibility guidelines.
Given Frankfort's small-town setting, how common are waitlists for daycare, and what's the best strategy for securing a spot?
Waitlists are a common reality for infant care in Frankfort due to limited slots and a small number of providers. The high demand for infant care, coupled with strict staff-to-child ratios, often means families need to plan ahead. It's not unusual for popular providers to have waitlists several months long. The best strategy is to begin your search during pregnancy. Contact all licensed providers in Frankfort and nearby towns like Waterville or Blue Rapids to inquire about availability and get on multiple lists. Be prepared to pay a small waitlist fee. Building a relationship with providers by checking in periodically (without being intrusive) can also be helpful. Flexibility with your start date can increase your chances of securing an opening.
What are the primary types of childcare options available within the city limits of Frankfort, KS?
Within Frankfort, parents typically have three main licensed childcare options. First, **Childcare Centers**: These are larger facilities, like the Frankfort Early Learning Center (if operational), which offer structured programs for various age groups. Second, **Group Daycare Homes**: These are in-home providers licensed to care for 7-12 children. They offer a home-like environment with a mix of ages. Third, **Family Daycare Homes**: These are in-home providers licensed for 4-6 children, offering the most intimate setting. Given Frankfort's size, the number of each type is limited, and many are family-run operations. There are also limited options for **preschool-specific programs**, which may be part of a daycare or offered separately through the local school district or community organizations. Care for school-age children before/after school is also a specific need, sometimes provided by the school or a local daycare.
Are there any unique local resources or organizations in Frankfort that help parents find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, while Frankfort itself is small, parents can tap into regional and state resources. A key organization is **Child Care Aware® of Kansas**, which serves as the state's resource and referral (R&R) agency. Their specialists can provide free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in Frankfort and Marshall County, and offer guidance on what to look for during a visit. Locally, the **Frankfort School District USD 497** may have information on preschool programs and before/after-school care. The **Marshall County Health Department** can also be a source of information on licensed providers. For informal networking, connecting with other parents through community groups, churches, or the Frankfort Public Library can yield personal recommendations and insights into provider reputations that aren't found in official databases.