The Best Daycare Centers in Sharon Springs, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sharon Springs. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sharon Springs
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-rated childcare facility serving the Sharon Springs area from nearby Goodland. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Creative Curriculum standards. The center features qualified early childhood educators with CPR and First Aid certifications, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their program includes structured activities focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development, with nutritious meals provided. The center stands out for its low teacher-to-child ratios and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Building Blocks Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Building Blocks Preschool & Childcare serves families throughout Northwest Kansas, including Sharon Springs residents. This established center provides a structured educational environment with a balanced curriculum that combines academic preparation and developmental play. Their qualified teaching staff maintains small class sizes and implements individualized learning plans. The facility features secure access, modern learning materials, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. They emphasize character development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness while maintaining comprehensive safety protocols and regular developmental assessments.
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Tiny Treasures Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Tiny Treasures Daycare & Preschool offers quality childcare services to families in Sharon Springs and surrounding communities. The center provides a nurturing environment with a focus on early childhood development through hands-on learning activities and structured educational programs. Their curriculum includes language development, early math concepts, creative arts, and physical education. The staff consists of experienced early childhood professionals with ongoing training in child development and safety procedures. The facility features age-specific classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and comprehensive health and safety measures including regular sanitization protocols and secure check-in systems.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sharon Springs, KS
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Sharon Springs, KS, and how do I find them?
In Sharon Springs, Kansas, licensed childcare options primarily include licensed family childcare homes and potentially licensed childcare centers, though centers are less common in smaller rural communities. Due to the town's size, many providers operate as registered or licensed family homes, offering a more intimate, home-like setting. To find licensed providers, your best resource is the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) Child Care Search tool available online. You can filter by location (using the 67758 zip code), type of care, and age group. Additionally, contacting the Wallace County Health Department or asking for local recommendations at community hubs like the school or library can help identify trusted providers.
What is the average cost for full-time daycare in Sharon Springs, and are there any financial assistance programs for local families?
In Sharon Springs and surrounding Wallace County, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than state urban averages but vary by provider and child's age. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $100 to $150 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. Preschool-age care may be slightly less. The Kansas Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by DCF, is the primary financial assistance resource. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). Local providers can often guide you through the application process. It's also worth inquiring if any providers offer sliding scale fees based on income.
Are there any state-licensed preschool programs or early learning centers in Sharon Springs, or will I need to look in neighboring towns?
Sharon Springs, being a small rural community, does not have a dedicated state-licensed preschool center. Early learning opportunities are typically integrated into the licensed family childcare home settings. For more structured preschool curriculum, parents often look to neighboring larger towns such as Goodland (approx. 30 miles west) or Colby (approx. 50 miles east), which have licensed childcare centers with preschool programs. However, many Sharon Springs family providers incorporate educational activities aligned with Kansas Early Learning Standards. For public Pre-K, check with Unified School District 241 (Wallace County Schools), as they may offer a preschool program for 4-year-olds, which could be a partial-day option to combine with childcare.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Sharon Springs, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited provider capacity in a small town like Sharon Springs, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It's not uncommon for popular licensed family homes to have waitlists of 6 months to a year. We strongly recommend starting your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before your needed start date. Contact providers directly to inquire about current openings and waitlist procedures. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances. Don't hesitate to get on multiple waitlists, and maintain communication with providers every few months for updates.
What specific Kansas state licensing regulations should I verify when choosing a daycare provider in Sharon Springs?
All licensed providers in Kansas must comply with DCF regulations. Key items to verify include: 1) **Current License:** Ask to see their DCF license, which should be posted. You can verify its status online. 2) **Staff-to-Child Ratios and Capacity:** For family homes, the ratio is typically 1:6 (including the provider's own children under age 10), with a maximum of 10 children. 3) **Health and Safety:** Providers must have passed health, fire, and safety inspections, have emergency plans, and use safe sleep practices for infants. 4) **Background Checks:** All household members and staff over 10 must have cleared background checks. 5) **Training:** Providers must complete annual training in topics like CPR/First Aid and child development. Feel free to ask the provider about these requirements directly.