The Best Daycare Centers in Lawrence, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lawrence. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lawrence
Hilltop Child Development Center
University of Kansas
Hilltop Child Development Center is a nationally accredited laboratory school affiliated with the University of Kansas. The center serves as a training ground for early childhood education students and implements research-based curriculum. Features small class sizes with highly qualified teachers holding advanced degrees in early childhood education. The program emphasizes child-directed learning, social-emotional development, and inclusive practices. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor learning environments, and observation areas for research and parent involvement.
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The Children's Learning Center
Independent Nonprofit
The Children's Learning Center is a NAEYC-accredited facility offering comprehensive early childhood programs. The center follows a play-based learning approach with structured curriculum components for different age groups. Features include certified early childhood educators, low teacher-to-child ratios, and a focus on developmental milestones. The facility includes secure outdoor playgrounds, dedicated infant rooms, and age-appropriate learning materials. Nutrition program provides healthy meals and snacks. Strong emphasis on parent communication and community involvement.
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Primrose School of Lawrence
Primrose Schools Franchise
Primrose School of Lawrence is part of the nationally recognized Primrose Schools system with Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, dedicated age-specific learning environments, and outdoor exploration areas. Curriculum includes literacy development, STEAM activities, character development, and foreign language exposure. Staff includes degreed teachers with ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes partnership with parents through regular communication and family engagement events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lawrence, KS
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lawrence, KS, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Lawrence, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $225 to $350 per week, while toddler care averages between $200 and $300 per week. These rates can vary based on the type of facility (center-based vs. in-home), its location, and the programs offered. For financial assistance, Kansas offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through the Department for Children and Families (DCF), which helps eligible low-income families. Additionally, local organizations like the United Way of Douglas County may provide resources or referrals. It's also worth checking with individual centers, as some may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
How do I verify that a daycare or childcare provider in Lawrence is properly licensed and what are Kansas's key regulations for child-to-staff ratios?
You can verify a provider's license through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Child Care Licensing website or by contacting their local office. In Kansas, licensed centers must adhere to strict staff-to-child ratios. For infants (0-12 months), the ratio is 1:3; for toddlers (1-2 years), it's 1:5; for 2-year-olds, it's 1:8; for 3-year-olds, it's 1:10; and for 4-5 year-olds, it's 1:12. In-home providers have different ratios, typically capped at six children total, including their own. Always ask to see a provider's current license and check for any past violations during your search in Lawrence.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Lawrence, and what strategies can parents use to secure a spot, especially for infants?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant care at many Lawrence daycare centers, particularly at university-affiliated or highly-rated facilities, with waits often ranging from 3 to 9 months. To secure a spot, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and consider a mix of centers, church-affiliated programs, and licensed in-home providers. Follow up periodically to show continued interest. Exploring options in nearby communities like Eudora or Baldwin City can also provide alternatives. Some centers may prioritize siblings of current enrollees or university staff/students, so inquire about any such policies.
What types of childcare options are most prevalent in Lawrence, and how do I find providers that align with specific educational philosophies?
Lawrence offers a diverse mix of childcare options, including center-based daycares, licensed family childcare homes, preschools, and programs affiliated with the University of Kansas or local churches. To find providers with specific educational approaches, such as Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or play-based learning, start by searching the KDHE licensed provider list and filtering for Lawrence. Local resources like the Family Conservancy's referral service (serving the Kansas City area, including Lawrence) can offer personalized matches. Additionally, visiting centers, asking about their curriculum, and checking for affiliations with organizations like the American Montessori Society can help identify suitable programs.
What are some key questions to ask during a tour of a potential daycare in Lawrence, and are there local resources for checking a provider's reputation?
During a tour in Lawrence, ask about staff qualifications and turnover, daily schedules, safety protocols (e.g., emergency plans for severe weather common in Kansas), meal provisions, and how they handle communication with parents. Inquire about their licensing status and any recent inspections. To check reputation, use online platforms like Google Reviews or Facebook, but also seek word-of-mouth recommendations in local parent groups on social media (e.g., Lawrence Moms Facebook groups). The KDHE website provides inspection reports and violation histories. Additionally, the Douglas County Child Development Association may offer insights into quality indicators for local providers.