The Best Daycare Centers in Westmoreland, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Westmoreland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Westmoreland
Wamego Child Care Center
Independent
Wamego Child Care Center is a highly-regarded facility known for its play-based learning curriculum that emphasizes social, emotional, and cognitive development. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, with staff holding early childhood education certifications and CPR/first aid training. Their program includes age-appropriate activities, outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal programs. Parents praise the center's safe, nurturing environment and strong communication on child progress, making it a trusted choice for families in the Westmoreland area.
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K-State Child Development Center
Kansas State University
Operated by Kansas State University, this center combines research-based practices with hands-on learning, focusing on STEM education and literacy development. Staff include degreed early childhood educators who implement a structured curriculum aligned with state standards. The facility boasts secure access, modern classrooms, and extensive outdoor play spaces. High parent satisfaction stems from its developmental milestones tracking, inclusive environment, and flexibility for commuting families from Westmoreland and surrounding communities.
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Little Learners Preschool and Childcare
Independent
Little Learners emphasizes a balanced approach with Montessori-inspired activities and structured academic preparation. The center is noted for its small class sizes, qualified teachers with background checks, and emphasis on creativity through art and music programs. Safety protocols include secured entry and regular drills, while the curriculum supports individualized learning plans. Conveniently located near Westmoreland, it offers flexible scheduling and high parent engagement, with many reviews highlighting its warm, family-oriented atmosphere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Westmoreland, KS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Westmoreland, KS, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Westmoreland and throughout Kansas, daycare providers caring for more than three children unrelated to them must be licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). This includes family childcare homes (4-12 children) and group childcare homes or centers (13+ children). Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a facility's compliance, you can use the KDHE's "Child Care Licensing Lookup" tool on their official website. You can also contact the local KDHE regional office serving Pottawatomie County. It's always recommended to ask the provider directly for their current license number and inspection reports.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare in Westmoreland, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Westmoreland and the surrounding rural areas of Pottawatomie County, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than in major Kansas metros but can vary. For an infant, you might expect to pay between $500 to $750 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs typically range from $450 to $650 per month. These are estimates, and prices depend on the provider's type (in-home vs. center), hours, and included services. For financial assistance, Kansas offers the Child Care Subsidy program through the Department for Children and Families (DCF) for eligible families. Additionally, local organizations or churches in the Westmoreland area may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees. Contacting the **Pottawatomie County Health Department** or the local **K-State Research and Extension office** can provide guidance on current local resources.
How common are waitlists for daycare in Westmoreland, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to the limited number of licensed providers in a small, rural community like Westmoreland, waitlists are very common and can be lengthy, especially for infant care. It is strongly advised to begin your search as early as possible—ideally 6 to 12 months before you need care, or as soon as you know you are expecting. Many local in-home providers and the limited center options in nearby towns (like Wamego or Manhattan) fill their spots quickly. When contacting providers, be sure to ask about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot, and how often they update their availability.
Are there any state-funded early childhood education programs, like Pre-K, available for 3- and 4-year-olds in Westmoreland?
Yes, there are options. The primary program is the Kansas Preschool Program (KPP), but its availability in specific school districts varies. For Westmoreland, you should contact **Rock Creek Unified School District 323** directly to inquire about their early childhood offerings. The district may offer a preschool program for 4-year-olds, potentially with income-based eligibility. Another key resource is **Head Start**, which serves low-income families. While there may not be a Head Start center in Westmoreland itself, there are programs in neighboring counties. You can search for the nearest Head Start or Early Head Start provider through the official Head Start locator online. These programs provide comprehensive early learning, health, and family services.
What are my main options for childcare in Westmoreland, given its rural setting?
In a rural town like Westmoreland, your options primarily consist of licensed family childcare homes operated out of a provider's residence. These small, home-based settings are the backbone of local childcare and often provide a flexible, family-like environment. There are also registered but unlicensed providers caring for three or fewer children. For center-based care, you will likely need to look in larger nearby communities such as Wamego (about 15 miles away) or Manhattan (about 25 miles away). Some families also form or join small, informal nanny-shares with other local parents. Networking through community Facebook groups, local churches (e.g., St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Westmoreland United Methodist Church), and word-of-mouth are essential strategies for finding all available options in the area.