The Best Daycare Centers in Gardner, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gardner. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gardner
Gardner KinderCare
KinderCare Learning Companies
Gardner KinderCare offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features dedicated learning centers for different age groups, secure entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds designed for specific age ranges. Teachers maintain low student-teacher ratios and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes a commercial kitchen providing nutritious meals and snacks. Parents appreciate the regular communication through daily reports and the center's focus on preparing children for kindergarten readiness.
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The Gardner School of Olathe
The Gardner School
Located just minutes from Gardner in Olathe, The Gardner School provides premium early childhood education with advanced security features including keypad entry and comprehensive surveillance systems. The curriculum emphasizes academic preparation through literacy-rich environments, STEM activities, and foreign language exposure. Classrooms are equipped with smartboard technology and specialized learning materials. The center features an indoor gym for year-round physical activity and offers enrichment programs in music, art, and technology. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain ongoing training in child development best practices.
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Primrose School of St. Terrance
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of St. Terrance serves the Gardner area with their Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, and hands-on learning experiences. The facility features age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated music and art rooms, and secure campus protocols. Teachers use the Primrose assessment system to track developmental milestones and customize learning experiences. The school offers healthy meals prepared on-site and maintains excellent staff retention rates, providing consistency for young learners. Parents consistently praise the school's communication and the visible progress in their children's development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gardner, KS
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Gardner, KS?
In Gardner, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $225 and $300 per week at licensed centers. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), weekly rates typically range from $200 to $275. In-home licensed daycare providers often charge slightly less, approximately $175 to $250 per week. These costs are generally in line with the Johnson County average. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Some centers in Gardner may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees based on income.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Gardner is properly licensed and what are Kansas's key regulations?
All childcare providers caring for more than three unrelated children in Kansas must be licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). You can verify a provider's license status and review any past inspection reports through the KDHE Child Care Licensing Search website. Key regulations for Gardner providers include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:3 for infants, 1:7 for 2-year-olds), annual health and safety training, background checks for all employees, and compliance with safe sleep practices for infants. The Gardner Health Department also enforces local sanitation codes. Always visit a facility and ask to see their current license posted onsite.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Gardner, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to high demand in the growing Gardner area, many highly-rated daycare centers and preschools do maintain waitlists, especially for infant rooms. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler and preschool-age openings, starting your search 6-9 months in advance is advisable. Some larger centers in Gardner may have shorter waits for older children. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$75) and to check in with the center every few months to keep your application active.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Gardner, KS?
Gardner offers a mix of childcare options to fit different family needs. These include: 1. **Licensed Childcare Centers:** Larger facilities, often with structured curricula and multiple classrooms (e.g., at churches or standalone buildings). 2. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes:** Smaller, home-based settings offering a more intimate environment, often with mixed-age groups. 3. **Preschools:** Part-day programs focused on early education for children ages 3-5, often affiliated with churches, schools, or community organizations. 4. **School-Age Programs:** Before and after-school care, often provided by the Gardner Edgerton School District (USD 231) or the Gardner Parks & Recreation Department. Many providers in Gardner offer full-time, part-time, and drop-in care options to accommodate varying schedules.
Does the City of Gardner or Johnson County offer any financial assistance or resources for finding childcare?
Yes, there are several local resources. The primary source of financial aid is the **Child Care Subsidy Program** administered by the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or school requirements. For help finding providers, parents can contact the **Child Care Aware of Kansas** referral service. Locally, the **Gardner Parks & Recreation Department** offers seasonal day camps and may have information on local providers. Additionally, some employers in the Gardner and Olathe area offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), which allow you to use pre-tax dollars for childcare expenses.