The Best Daycare Centers in Eastwood, KY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Eastwood. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Eastwood
Kiddie Academy of Bardstown
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Bardstown provides comprehensive educational childcare with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure keypad entry systems, and modern learning environments with age-appropriate materials. Their program includes nutritious meals, regular parent communication through mobile apps, and developmentally appropriate play spaces. Serving the Eastwood area with convenient access from the Bluegrass Parkway.
Daycare Services:
Little Learners Child Development Center
Independent
Little Learners offers a nurturing environment with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Creative Curriculum elements. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs qualified early childhood educators who focus on individualized development. Features include secure facilities with surveillance systems, structured learning centers, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and regular developmental assessments. The center emphasizes social skills development and school readiness while serving families throughout Nelson County including Eastwood residents.
Daycare Services:
The Gardner School of Mt. Washington
The Gardner School
The Gardner School provides premium early childhood education with advanced security features including biometric entry systems and comprehensive background checks. Their academic-focused curriculum includes foreign language exposure, technology integration, and specialized enrichment programs. The facility features modern classrooms, indoor gymnasiums, and secure outdoor play areas. Staff includes degreed early childhood educators who implement individualized learning plans and maintain detailed progress tracking. Conveniently located for Eastwood families with easy access via I-65 and KY-44.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Eastwood, KY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Eastwood, KY, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Eastwood, Kentucky, all childcare centers and certified family childcare homes must be licensed by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS). Key requirements include background checks for all staff, specific staff-to-child ratios based on age (e.g., 1:5 for infants), health and safety training, and regular facility inspections. To verify a provider's compliance and view their inspection history, you can use the state's online "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the CHFS website. It's also recommended to ask the provider directly for their most recent licensing certificate and inspection report, which they are required to post or provide upon request.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Eastwood, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Eastwood area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $150 to $220 per week. Toddler care is slightly less, averaging $130 to $190 per week. Home-based daycare may be more affordable. These rates can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. For financial assistance, Kentucky's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible low-income families. Eligibility is based on income, work/training status, and family size. You can apply through the local DCBS (Department for Community Based Services) office in Shelby County, which serves the Eastwood area. Some local centers may also offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Eastwood, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant rooms and highly-rated centers in the Eastwood and broader Shelby County area. Due to limited capacity and high demand, it is strongly advised to begin your search at least 6 to 12 months before you need care. For infant spots, starting your search during pregnancy is not uncommon. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length, any fees to join the list, and how often they update families on their status. Exploring a mix of centers and licensed family homes can increase your chances of finding an available spot sooner.
What are some of the key factors to consider when touring a daycare facility in Eastwood?
When touring daycares in Eastwood, go beyond the basics. Observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment (secured doors, covered outlets, safe playgrounds). Notice how staff interact with children—are they engaged and responsive? Ask about staff turnover, as consistency is crucial. Inquire about their daily schedule, educational philosophy, and how they handle discipline and communication with parents (many use apps like Brightwheel or Tadpoles). Given Kentucky's weather, ask about their policy for outdoor play and inclement weather days. Finally, trust your instincts about the overall atmosphere and whether it feels like a warm, nurturing place for your child.
Are there any unique local resources or networks for parents seeking childcare recommendations in Eastwood?
Absolutely. A great local starting point is the **Child Care Council of Kentucky's Resource and Referral service** for the region, which can provide personalized lists of licensed providers in the Eastwood/Shelby County area. Additionally, joining local Facebook groups like "Eastwood, KY Community" or "Shelby County Moms" can be invaluable for getting firsthand recommendations and experiences from other parents. The Shelby County Public Library may also host parent-child events where you can network. For specialized care, such as programs accommodating non-traditional work hours, contacting providers directly is key, as options may be limited and not always listed in broader databases.