The Best Daycare Centers in Gaylord, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gaylord. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gaylord
Smith Center Early Learning Center
Smith Center USD 237
As part of Smith Center USD 237 school district, this early learning center offers a comprehensive educational program with licensed teachers and structured curriculum. The facility features age-appropriate learning environments, secure access controls, and developmentally appropriate play areas. Their program emphasizes early literacy, social-emotional development, and school readiness skills. With low student-teacher ratios and certified early childhood educators, they provide individualized attention and track developmental milestones. The center maintains strong safety protocols and offers nutritious meal programs aligned with USDA guidelines.
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Little Saints Learning Center
Independent
Little Saints Learning Center provides a nurturing Christian-based environment with a balanced approach to early childhood education. Their curriculum combines play-based learning with structured academic preparation, focusing on cognitive, physical, and social development. The center features modern security systems, clean and organized classrooms, and outdoor play spaces designed for different age groups. Staff members hold early childhood certifications and receive ongoing professional development. Parents appreciate the strong communication system, daily activity reports, and family involvement opportunities.
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TLC Daycare & Preschool
Independent
TLC Daycare & Preschool has served the north central Kansas region for over 15 years with a focus on personalized care and early childhood development. Their program incorporates Creative Curriculum with hands-on learning activities, literacy development, and STEM introduction for preschoolers. The facility includes secure entry systems, sanitization protocols, and age-separated play areas. Qualified early childhood professionals provide consistent care with emphasis on building strong relationships with children and families. The center offers flexible scheduling options and maintains small group sizes for optimal learning environments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gaylord, KS
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Gaylord, Kansas?
In Gaylord, Kansas, and the surrounding Jewell County area, licensed childcare options are primarily family childcare homes. Due to the small, rural nature of the community, there are no large daycare centers. Licensed family homes are regulated by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and can care for up to 10 children, depending on the provider's license level and the ages of the children. Some providers may also offer part-time or drop-in care. For school-age children, the local USD 107 school district may provide before- and after-school programs. Finding these providers often requires word-of-mouth, checking with the local school, or using the KDHE online provider search tool.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Gaylord?
All licensed childcare providers in Kansas are regulated by the KDHE. You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history through the KDHE's "Child Care Licensing Survey" website. This public portal allows you to search by provider name, city (Gaylord), or county (Jewell). It will show the license status, capacity, ages served, and any past regulatory visits, including citations for non-compliance. It's a crucial step for parents. You can also call the KDHE's Northwest Regional Office for assistance. Always ask the provider directly to see their current license certificate, which must be posted.
What is the typical cost for full-time childcare in Gaylord, and are there any financial assistance programs?
In Gaylord and rural Kansas, full-time childcare in a licensed family home typically ranges from $100 to $150 per week per child, though rates can vary based on the child's age and the services provided. This is generally lower than urban center rates. For financial assistance, Kansas offers the Child Care Subsidy program through the Department for Children and Families (DCF). Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance requirements. Parents in Jewell County should contact the Hays DCF Service Center to apply. Additionally, some providers may offer sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking.
Are waitlists common for childcare in Gaylord, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Gaylord. With only a handful of licensed family homes, spots fill quickly, especially for infants and toddlers. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search at least 3-6 months before they need care, and if you are expecting, it's wise to start inquiring during your second trimester. Building a relationship with local providers and getting on multiple waitlists can increase your chances of securing a spot. Networking with other parents at community events or through the school can also provide leads on potential openings.
What are some local-specific factors or questions I should consider when choosing a daycare in Gaylord?
Given Gaylord's rural setting, key factors include transportation, emergency preparedness, and provider flexibility. Ask about their plan for severe weather common to Kansas (like tornadoes or blizzards) and how they handle power outages. Inquire about their hours, as some providers may have limited schedules that align with agricultural seasons. Since you might need to travel to neighboring towns for work, ask about their policy on late pick-ups due to long commutes or road conditions. Also, consider the provider's network: in a close-knit community, a well-connected provider can be a great resource for family support and local activities for your child.