The Best Daycare Centers in Saint Marys, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Saint Marys. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Saint Marys
Saint Marys Elementary School Preschool
Saint Marys Unified School District 436
This school-based preschool program offers a comprehensive early childhood education integrated with the local school district. The program focuses on school readiness with a balanced curriculum that includes literacy development, math concepts, social skills, and physical development. Certified early childhood educators provide instruction in a structured yet nurturing environment. The facility benefits from school district resources including secure facilities, playground equipment, and access to school amenities. Parent communication is strong with regular progress reports and family engagement opportunities.
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Primrose School of Wamego
Primrose Schools
As part of the nationally recognized Primrose Schools network, this facility offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The program emphasizes character development, literacy, STEM concepts, and creative arts. Features include secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. Staff maintain low teacher-child ratios and participate in ongoing professional development. The center serves families throughout Pottawatomie County, including Saint Marys residents.
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Little Apple Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Manhattan, this highly-rated center serves families throughout the region including Saint Marys. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through play-based and structured activities that support cognitive, social, and emotional development. Features include secure facilities with camera monitoring, age-specific learning environments, outdoor play spaces, and developmentally appropriate materials. The center employs qualified early childhood educators and maintains strong parent partnerships through daily communication and regular family events. Transportation options may be available for school-age children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Saint Marys, KS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Saint Marys, Kansas, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Saint Marys, Kansas, all childcare facilities caring for more than three unrelated children must be licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). This includes family daycare homes and group daycare centers. 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 online "Child Care Licensing Search" tool or contact the KDHE directly. It's highly recommended to always check this before enrolling your child, as it's a fundamental indicator of a regulated and monitored care environment. You can also ask the provider to show you their current license certificate.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Saint Marys, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Saint Marys and the surrounding Pottawatomie County area, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $600 to $850 per month. For toddlers, costs may be slightly lower, around $550 to $750 per month. These rates can vary based on the type of facility (center-based vs. in-home), the hours of operation, and included amenities like meals. For financial assistance, Kansas offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through the Department for Children and Families (DCF) for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance requirements. Additionally, local organizations or churches in Saint Marys may occasionally offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees; it's worth inquiring directly with providers about any such options.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Saint Marys, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed daycare facilities in a smaller community like Saint Marys, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. It's not unusual for popular centers or highly-regarded in-home providers to have waitlists of 3 to 9 months. For parents expecting a child or planning a return to work, it is strongly advised to begin researching and contacting providers as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6 months before you need care. Be prepared to get on multiple waitlists and to pay a small, non-refundable deposit to secure your spot. Persistence and flexibility with your start date can improve your chances.
Are there any daycare options in Saint Marys that offer part-time, drop-in, or after-school care for school-aged children?
Yes, but options are more limited than full-time care. Some licensed family daycare homes in Saint Marys may offer part-time schedules or occasional drop-in care, but you will need to inquire directly as this is not universally available. For after-school care, the Saint Marys Elementary School may have information on local programs or partnerships. The community's size means structured after-school programs are less common than in larger cities, so many families rely on in-home providers, nanny-shares with other families, or the support of local family. Networking with other parents through community groups or social media can be invaluable for finding these flexible arrangements.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Saint Marys?
When touring a daycare in Saint Marys, go beyond the basics. First, observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment—check for secure outdoor play areas, covered electrical outlets, and safe sleep practices for infants. Notice how staff interact with children; they should be engaged, patient, and responsive. Ask about the daily schedule, educational philosophy, and how they handle discipline and communication with parents. Inquire about staff qualifications, turnover rates, and their emergency plans for severe weather common to Kansas. Given the local context, also ask about their policy for school closures (like snow days) and if they accommodate children from local farming families who may have non-traditional hours. Trust your instincts about the overall warmth and professionalism of the setting.