The Best Daycare Centers in Madison, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Madison. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Madison
Imagination Station Learning Center
Independent
Imagination Station Learning Center serves the Madison area from nearby Eureka with a comprehensive educational approach focusing on developmental milestones. The center features a structured curriculum that incorporates play-based learning, early literacy, and STEM activities. Certified teachers maintain low student-to-teacher ratios, and the facility includes secure indoor learning environments and safe outdoor play areas. The center emphasizes individualized learning plans, regular parent communication, and nutritional meal programs. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills.
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Little Learners Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Little Learners provides quality childcare services to Madison area families with a focus on early childhood development and school readiness. The center uses a balanced curriculum combining Montessori-inspired activities with traditional preschool education. Features include age-appropriate learning centers, structured daily routines, and emphasis on social-emotional development. All staff members hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility maintains high cleanliness standards, secure access controls, and comprehensive emergency preparedness plans.
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Kiddie Kollege Early Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kollege serves the broader region including Madison with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes whole-child development. The center features dedicated infant rooms with specialized care protocols, progressive learning environments for each age group, and integrated technology in preschool classrooms. Their educational approach includes hands-on learning experiences, literacy-rich environments, and character development programs. The facility includes secure outdoor playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment, modern security systems, and strict health and sanitation protocols. Staff maintain CPR/first aid certification and participate in continuous early childhood education training.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Madison, KS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Madison, Kansas, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Kansas, all childcare facilities serving more than two unrelated children must be licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). This includes family daycare homes and center-based programs. Licensed providers in Madison must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, background checks, and ongoing training. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the KDHE's online "Child Care Licensing Search" tool or contact the KDHE directly. It's a crucial first step to ensure the facility meets state-mandated health, safety, and educational standards.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Madison, KS, and are there any local financial assistance programs available?
In Madison and the surrounding rural areas of Greenwood County, full-time childcare costs can vary. For an infant, you might expect to pay between $120 to $180 per week at a licensed family home, while center-based care may be higher if available locally. Costs are often lower than in major metropolitan areas. 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. Additionally, local organizations like the Southeast Kansas Community Action Program (SEK-CAP) may offer resources or referrals for assistance to qualifying families in the region.
Given Madison's small size, how can I find available daycare openings, and should I expect long waitlists?
Due to Madison's limited number of providers, finding an immediate opening can be challenging. It's advisable to start your search early, ideally several months before you need care. The best resources are the "Kansas Child Care Resource & Referral Network" website or by calling 1-877-678-2548 for referrals to licensed providers in Greenwood County. Networking through local community groups, churches, or the Madison school district can also yield leads. Waitlists are common, especially for infant care, so contacting multiple providers and getting on lists even if they are full is a recommended strategy.
What are my options for before and after-school care for school-age children in Madison?
For school-age children attending Madison-Virgil USD 386, the primary option is typically a school-based or affiliated program. You should contact the Madison Elementary School office directly to inquire about any existing before/after-school programs. Given the rural setting, if a formal program isn't available, many families rely on licensed family childcare homes that offer before and after-school care, including transportation to and from school. Checking with local daycare providers about their capacity for school-age children and their transportation policies is essential. Some in-home providers may offer this flexible care to meet community needs.
Are there any unique considerations for childcare in a rural community like Madison, such as transportation or emergency preparedness?
Yes, rural childcare comes with specific considerations. Transportation is a key factor; many providers in Madison do not offer pickup/drop-off services, so you'll need to confirm logistics. Discuss their emergency plans for severe weather common to Kansas (like tornadoes) and their protocol for medical emergencies, given the distance to major hospitals like those in Emporia or Chanute. Additionally, inquire about their policy on farm or animal exposure if relevant, and their flexibility with hours, as rural parents often have longer or irregular commutes. Building a strong relationship with a local provider is especially important in a small community for reliability and mutual support.