The Best Daycare Centers in Howard, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Howard. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Howard
Winfield Early Learning Center
Independent
Winfield Early Learning Center offers a comprehensive educational program focusing on developmental milestones through play-based learning and structured curriculum. The center features certified early childhood educators with specialized training in age-appropriate developmental practices. Facilities include secure indoor learning environments with modern educational materials and safe outdoor play areas. The center emphasizes individualized attention with low teacher-to-child ratios and maintains strong parent communication through daily updates and progress tracking. Their curriculum incorporates literacy development, social skills, and cognitive growth through hands-on activities and creative expression.
Daycare Services:
Stepping Stones Early Learning Center
Independent
Stepping Stones Early Learning Center provides a nurturing environment with a balanced approach to education and care. The center employs qualified early childhood professionals who implement a research-based curriculum focusing on social-emotional development, early literacy, and kindergarten readiness. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The facility features age-specific classrooms, developmental appropriate learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents appreciate the center's transparent communication and commitment to creating a family-like atmosphere where children feel secure and valued.
Daycare Services:
Howard Community Childcare
Independent
Howard Community Childcare is a locally-operated center serving the Howard area with personalized care and education. The center focuses on creating a home-like environment while implementing structured learning activities that promote cognitive, physical, and social development. Staff members include experienced early childhood educators with long-term tenure at the facility, providing consistency and deep community connections. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, creative expression, and development of fundamental skills through daily routines and planned activities. The center maintains strong safety standards with secure facilities, regular health inspections, and emergency preparedness protocols. Their family-centered approach includes flexible scheduling and active parent involvement opportunities.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Howard, KS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Howard, Kansas, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Howard, 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 and center-based programs. 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 "Child Care Search" tool on their official website. You can search by provider name, location (like Howard, KS), or license number. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers, as this offers a baseline of regulatory oversight and safety for your child.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant or toddler daycare in Howard, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Howard and the surrounding Elk County area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than in major metropolitan areas of Kansas. For infants, you can expect to pay approximately $120-$180 per week, while toddler care may range from $110-$160 per week. These are estimates, and prices can vary based on the provider's amenities, hours, and curriculum. 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). You can apply online via the DCF website or contact the local DCF service center. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers or in-home providers in Howard, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Howard, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care, and may range from a few weeks to several months. Popular in-home providers and the limited center-based options often have the longest waits. To secure a spot, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or 3-6 months before you need care. Contact multiple providers to get on their waitlists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot when one opens. It's also helpful to expand your search to nearby towns in Elk County, such as Moline or Longton, to increase your options. Maintain regular, polite contact with providers to express your continued interest.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically in Howard, KS?
Howard offers a few primary childcare options, typical of a small Kansas town. These include: 1) **Licensed Family Childcare Homes:** These are in-home providers caring for a small group of children, often offering a more flexible, home-like environment. They are a common choice in Howard. 2) **Childcare Centers:** There may be a limited number of center-based programs, potentially affiliated with a church or community organization, offering structured programs for larger groups. 3) **Preschool Programs:** These are often part-time and may be offered by the local school district (USD 284) or a private organization, focusing on pre-K education. 4) **Relative, Friend, or Neighbor Care:** Unlicensed care arranged privately is also an option, but it does not have state oversight. For the most regulated and reliable options, focusing on licensed homes or centers is advised.
Are there any unique local resources or organizations in Howard that help parents find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, while Howard itself is small, parents can tap into several Kansas and regional resources. A key starting point is **Child Care Aware of Kansas**, which offers a referral service to help find licensed providers in Howard and Elk County. You can call their hotline or use their online search. Locally, the **Howard Public Library** or the **USD 284 school district office** may have community bulletin boards or staff who can provide referrals. For evaluating quality, look for providers participating in the state's **Kansas Star Rating System**, a voluntary quality improvement program. Although not all providers participate, those with a Star Rating have met additional standards beyond basic licensing. Connecting with other parents through community Facebook groups or local events can also provide invaluable firsthand recommendations.