The Best Daycare Centers in Soldier, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Soldier. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Soldier
Primrose School of West Shawnee
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of West Shawnee offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All lead teachers have early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes character development and life skills through their Happy Hearts Character Development Program. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their exclusive Wholesome Tummies® food program. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios and uses a proprietary assessment system to track developmental milestones.
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The Learning Experience - Shawnee
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Shawnee follows their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, mathematics, and science. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including coded entry and comprehensive surveillance. All classrooms are designed with age-appropriate learning centers and materials. The facility includes indoor and outdoor play areas with safety-certified equipment. Teachers receive ongoing training in early childhood development and safety protocols. The center offers enrichment programs including yoga, music, and philanthropy lessons. Their Bubbles U® interactive fitness program promotes physical development and healthy habits.
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Holton Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Holton Daycare & Preschool provides comprehensive early childhood education services with a focus on developmental appropriateness and individualized care. The center uses Creative Curriculum® that aligns with Kansas Early Learning Standards. The facility features secure access control, fenced outdoor play areas, and age-specific learning environments. All staff are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development requirements. The program emphasizes literacy development, social-emotional learning, and kindergarten readiness skills. The center maintains strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences. They provide nutritious meals meeting USDA guidelines and accommodate special dietary needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Soldier, KS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Soldier, Kansas, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Soldier, Kansas, all childcare providers 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 childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, health practices, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the KDHE's online "Child Care Licensing Search" tool. It's highly recommended to check this database for any history of violations or complaints. For very small, in-home care of three or fewer children (often called "informal care"), licensing is not required, so parents should conduct extra diligence, including checking references and conducting in-person interviews.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in and around Soldier, KS, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the rural nature of Soldier and Jackson County, licensed daycare options are limited, and waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. To improve your chances, start your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy. Contact providers directly to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee in some cases. It's also wise to expand your search to neighboring communities like Holton, Circleville, or even Topeka (about a 45-minute drive) for more options. Consider exploring licensed family daycare homes, which may have shorter wait times. Stay in regular, polite contact with providers to express your continued interest.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Soldier, Kansas, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Soldier and the surrounding rural areas of northeast Kansas, full-time childcare costs are generally lower than in metropolitan areas but vary by type. A licensed family daycare home may charge between $120-$180 per week, while a center-based program might range from $150-$220 per week. Infant care is typically at the higher end of this scale. For financial assistance, Kansas offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through the Department for Children and Families (DCF) for eligible low-income families. Additionally, some local employers or community organizations may offer referrals or limited support. It's also worth inquiring if providers offer sibling discounts, which is common in smaller communities.
Are there any unique childcare options in Soldier, KS, that cater to farm families or non-traditional work hours?
Yes, given Soldier's agricultural community, some childcare providers understand the demands of farm life. While specific "farm-based" daycares are rare, many licensed family daycare homes may offer more flexible hours to accommodate early mornings, late evenings, or seasonal variability during planting and harvest. It's crucial to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront. Another option is to seek a nanny or in-home caregiver who can provide care at your residence, offering the ultimate flexibility. Networking through local organizations like the Jackson County Farm Bureau or community Facebook groups can help you find providers sympathetic to agricultural schedules.
What resources are available in Soldier, KS, to help me find and evaluate potential childcare providers?
A primary local resource is the Child Care Aware of Kansas referral service. You can call their hotline or use their online search to find licensed providers in your ZIP code (66540). The Soldier Community Facebook page or other Jackson County community groups are invaluable for getting personal recommendations and reviews from other parents. For evaluation, always schedule an in-person visit. Ask to see the provider's license, their emergency plans, and their daily activity schedule. In a small town, don't hesitate to ask for references from other local families. You can also contact the Jackson County Health Department for general guidance on health and safety standards expected in childcare settings.