The Best Daycare Centers in Garfield, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Garfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Garfield
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Great Bend provides a comprehensive early childhood education program with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, and social-emotional development. The center features highly qualified teachers with CPR and First Aid certifications, low child-to-teacher ratios, and secure facilities with keypad entry systems. Their approach includes hands-on learning activities, outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal programs. Parents appreciate the strong communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences, making it a trusted choice for families in the Garfield area.
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Larned Early Childhood Center
Unified School District 495
Larned Early Childhood Center offers a high-quality preschool program focused on school readiness through a play-based curriculum that aligns with Kansas Early Learning Standards. The center boasts state-licensed educators with degrees in early childhood education, small class sizes, and inclusive environments for children with diverse needs. Safety is prioritized with controlled access, regular drills, and health screenings. The program emphasizes parent involvement through workshops and home visits, and its strong community ties and individualized learning plans make it a top-rated option for Garfield residents.
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Great Bend Child Development Center
Independent
Great Bend Child Development Center is known for its nurturing environment and balanced curriculum that blends academic foundations with creative play and physical activity. The center employs experienced staff with ongoing training in child development and safety protocols, including secure facilities and allergy-aware practices. Their program includes STEM activities, music and movement, and outdoor learning in fenced playgrounds. With flexible scheduling and a focus on building independence and social skills, this center has high parent satisfaction and serves as a reliable childcare provider for the Garfield community.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Garfield, KS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Garfield, Kansas, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Kansas, all childcare facilities caring for more than three children unrelated to the provider must be licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). This includes family daycare homes, group daycare homes, and daycare centers. Licensed providers in Garfield must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, background checks, health and sanitation, and ongoing training. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the KDHE's online "Child Care Provider Search" tool. It's highly recommended to only use licensed providers, as this ensures a baseline of health, safety, and oversight. You can also contact the local KDHE regional office for the area for additional verification.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Garfield, KS?
Childcare costs in Garfield and the surrounding rural areas of Kansas are generally more affordable than in major metropolitan areas, but options are fewer. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $120 to $180 per week for full-time care for an infant or toddler. In-home family daycare providers may offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from $100 to $150 per week. These are estimates, and prices can vary based on the provider's amenities, hours of operation, and whether meals are included. It's important to ask about any additional fees for registration, supplies, or late pick-ups.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with daycare costs for families in Garfield?
Yes, the primary program is the Kansas Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF). This program provides financial assistance to eligible low- and moderate-income families who are working, attending school, or in job training. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and the reason care is needed. Given Garfield's rural setting, accessing a participating provider is crucial; you can search for them using the DCF or KDHE websites. Additionally, some local community action agencies or non-profits in Pawnee County or the broader region may offer limited assistance or sliding-scale fees. It's best to contact the DCF directly or your local DCF service center to apply.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers in Garfield, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed daycare options in a small community like Garfield, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It is not uncommon for popular providers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a move to the area begin their search as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before care is needed. Contact providers directly to inquire about their current waitlist policies, any fees to join the list, and how often they update families on their status. Being proactive and getting on multiple lists can increase your chances of securing a spot.
What are my options for drop-in or part-time childcare in Garfield, KS, for occasional needs?
Regular drop-in or part-time care is very limited in Garfield due to its small size and the structured nature of licensed facilities, which often prioritize full-time enrollments to maintain stability. Your best options are to: 1) Inquire with local licensed family daycare homes, as they may occasionally have more flexible capacity for part-day care. 2) Network with other parents in the community to share babysitter recommendations. 3) Explore registered in-home providers in nearby larger towns like Larned, which may offer more flexibility. There are no dedicated drop-in childcare centers in Garfield itself. For true occasional needs, building a network of trusted local babysitters is often the most practical solution.