The Best Daycare Centers in Franklin, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Franklin. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Franklin
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center in Ottawa is a highly-regarded childcare facility serving the Franklin area with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through play and structured activities. The center features age-appropriate classrooms, secure keypad entry systems, and outdoor play spaces designed for safe exploration. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and participate in ongoing training. Standout features include a parent communication app for real-time updates, nutritious meal programs, and accreditation from national early learning organizations, ensuring high standards for educational quality and safety.
Daycare Services:
Paola Early Learning Center
Independent
Paola Early Learning Center offers a nurturing environment with a focus on individualized learning and developmental milestones through a play-based curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, arts, and literacy. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios, with staff trained in CPR, first aid, and early childhood development. Facilities include secure access, sanitized play areas, and dedicated infant and toddler rooms. It stands out for its strong parent involvement programs, regular progress reports, and inclusion of cultural diversity in daily activities, fostering a community-oriented approach to childcare.
Daycare Services:
Louisburg Community Childcare
Independent
Louisburg Community Childcare provides a family-centered approach with a curriculum that balances academic readiness and social skills through hands-on learning and creative play. The center features qualified teachers with background checks and ongoing professional development, along with safe, clean facilities that include outdoor playgrounds and enriched classroom environments. It excels in offering flexible scheduling, nutritious snacks, and a strong emphasis on community values, making it a trusted option for families in the Franklin service area.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Franklin, KS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Franklin, Kansas, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Kansas, all childcare facilities caring for more than two unrelated children must be licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). This includes family daycare homes and childcare centers. Licensed providers in Franklin must meet state standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, background checks for all employees, and ongoing training. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the KDHE's "Child Care Licensing Search" tool online or contact the KDHE directly. It's a crucial first step to ensure the provider operates under state-mandated health, safety, and educational guidelines.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Franklin, KS, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Franklin and the surrounding Miami County area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $700 to $900 per month. For toddlers, it may be slightly lower, around $650-$800 per month. Family daycare homes can sometimes offer more affordable rates. 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). Parents in Franklin should contact the DCF office serving Miami County to apply. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Franklin, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Franklin, waitlists for infant spots, in particular, can be significant. It's common for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact all licensed providers in Franklin and nearby towns like Osawatomie or Paola. Get on multiple waitlists, even if a center isn't your top choice. Be proactive—check in every few months to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Consider licensed family daycare homes, which may have shorter wait times and offer a more home-like setting.
Are there any unique childcare options in Franklin, KS, such as programs affiliated with local schools or faith-based organizations?
Yes, Franklin and the surrounding area offer some specific options. The local school district, Central Heights USD 288, may offer preschool programs for 3- and 4-year-olds, which can be a part-day educational complement to daycare. Several churches in the community, such as the Franklin United Methodist Church, have historically hosted licensed preschool or Mother's Day Out programs, which provide structured care and early learning in a faith-based environment. These are often part-time but can be a valuable resource. It's best to contact these organizations directly for current offerings, schedules, and enrollment procedures.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Franklin, and are there any local resources to help with the evaluation?
During a tour, observe the cleanliness, safety (outlet covers, secure gates, fenced outdoor area), and how staff interact with children—they should be engaged and responsive. Ask about their daily schedule, curriculum, staff qualifications and turnover, and emergency procedures. In Kansas, you can also ask to see the facility's most recent KDHE licensing report, which details any past violations. For local evaluation help, use the "Child Care Search" feature on the Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities (KCCTO) website, which includes provider profiles. You can also connect with other parents in Franklin through community Facebook groups or at the Franklin Community Library to get personal recommendations and insights.