The Best Daycare Centers in Waverly, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Waverly. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Waverly
Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy is a highly-regarded local childcare center that serves the Waverly community with comprehensive early childhood education programs. They implement a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates Montessori-inspired elements and focuses on developmental milestones. The center features certified early childhood educators with an average of 8+ years experience, maintains low student-teacher ratios (4:1 for infants, 8:1 for toddlers), and offers a secure facility with coded entry systems. Their program includes daily outdoor play in fenced playgrounds, nutritious meal programs following USDA guidelines, and regular parent-teacher conferences. The center is particularly praised for its individualized attention and strong kindergarten readiness program.
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Kiddie Kollege Early Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Ottawa (approximately 15 miles from Waverly), Kiddie Kollege serves families throughout the region with a comprehensive early childhood education program. They utilize the Creative Curriculum system combined with hands-on learning experiences and technology integration appropriate for different age groups. The center employs state-qualified teachers with background checks and ongoing professional development. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The facility offers spacious classrooms, dedicated age-appropriate playgrounds, and a structured daily schedule that balances academic learning with creative expression and physical activity. Parents consistently praise their communication and the center's commitment to each child's social-emotional development.
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Sunshine House Early Learning Academy
The Sunshine House
As part of the national Sunshine House network, this Ottawa location provides high-quality childcare services to families in Waverly and surrounding communities. They implement the company's proprietary School Readiness Pathway curriculum that focuses on literacy, math, science, and social skills development. The center features degreed lead teachers, comprehensive security systems including electronic check-in/out, and regular safety assessments. Their program includes STEM activities, music and movement classes, and character development components. The facility offers modern classrooms, multiple outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment, and nutritious meals prepared on-site. The center is noted for its structured learning environment, experienced staff retention, and strong parent partnership approach with regular progress updates and family engagement events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Waverly, KS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Waverly, Kansas, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Waverly, Kansas, all childcare facilities serving more than three unrelated children must be licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). This includes family daycare homes and group/center-based care. 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. You can search by provider name, city (Waverly), or county (Coffey). It's highly recommended to check this before enrolling your child, as it provides a baseline of regulatory compliance and safety.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant and toddler daycare in Waverly, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Waverly and the surrounding Coffey County area, full-time daycare for infants typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week, while toddler care is generally between $130 and $200 per week. These costs can vary based on the type of facility (in-home vs. center), hours, and included services like meals. For financial assistance, Kansas offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through the Department for Children and Families (DCF). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or education requirements. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers in Waverly, and when should I start looking for care before I need it?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Waverly, waitlists for the most sought-after daycare centers and licensed in-home providers can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant spots. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before your anticipated start date. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, ask about their current list length and estimated timeline, and consider putting your name on more than one list to increase your chances of securing a spot.
Are there any part-time or drop-in childcare options available in Waverly for parents with irregular schedules?
Part-time and drop-in care options in Waverly are very limited compared to larger cities. Most licensed providers prioritize full-time enrollments to maintain stable income and staffing. However, some licensed family daycare homes may offer part-time slots or have flexibility for occasional drop-in care based on their current enrollment and availability. Your best approach is to call providers directly, explain your schedule needs, and inquire about any potential flexibility or if they maintain a list for occasional care. For more predictable part-time needs, you might also explore neighboring towns like Burlington or Emporia, which may have centers with more structured part-time programs.
What resources are available in Waverly to help me evaluate and choose a quality childcare provider?
Beyond checking KDHE licensing, parents in Waverly can utilize several resources. First, you can contact Child Care Aware of Kansas, a nonprofit that offers free referrals and guidance on choosing quality care. They can provide a list of licensed providers in Coffey County. Second, schedule in-person tours and ask providers for references from current parents. Third, use the Kansas Star Rating system (a voluntary quality rating for licensed providers) to see if a local provider participates and their score. Finally, connecting with local parent groups on social media or through community centers like the Waverly Community Building can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations and firsthand experiences.