The Best Daycare Centers in Garfield, KY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Garfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Garfield
The Learning Center
Breckinridge County Child Development Center
The Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility serving the Garfield area from nearby Hardinsburg. They feature a comprehensive educational curriculum focused on early childhood development with certified teachers and low student-teacher ratios. The center emphasizes literacy development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness through structured learning activities and play-based education. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and modern safety systems. They provide nutritious meals and maintain strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
Daycare Services:
Little Angels Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
Little Angels serves the Garfield community from their Hardinsburg location with a nurturing environment and structured educational program. Their curriculum combines Montessori-inspired activities with traditional early childhood education, focusing on cognitive, emotional, and physical development. The center features qualified early childhood educators, secure facilities with monitored access, and age-appropriate learning materials. They emphasize character development, social interaction skills, and provide extended care options for working families. The center maintains excellent safety records and offers flexible scheduling.
Daycare Services:
Cloverport Child Development Center
Independent
Located in nearby Cloverport, this center serves families throughout Breckinridge County including Garfield. They offer a research-based curriculum that prepares children for academic success while fostering social and emotional growth. The facility features dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and preschool classrooms with certified early childhood educators. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The center focuses on hands-on learning experiences, literacy development, and provides nutritious meals meeting USDA guidelines. Parent involvement is encouraged through regular communication and family events.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Garfield, KY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Garfield, Kentucky, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Garfield, Kentucky, all childcare centers and certified family childcare homes must be licensed by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), Division of Child Care. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and facility safety. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations by using the "Find Child Care" search tool on the Kentucky CHFS website or by contacting the Division of Child Care directly. It's highly recommended to always choose a licensed provider for your child's safety and your peace of mind.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant daycare in Garfield, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In the Garfield area and surrounding Breckinridge County, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from **$125 to $175 per week**. Costs can vary based on the type of facility (center vs. home-based), specific programs offered, and whether meals are included. For financial assistance, Kentucky offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families based on income, work, school, or training requirements. You can apply through the local Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Garfield, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to limited childcare options in smaller communities like Garfield, waitlists for infant and toddler spots, especially at highly-regarded centers, can be significant. It's common to encounter waitlists of **3 to 9 months**, or even longer. We strongly advise parents to begin researching and contacting providers as soon as possible, ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before your needed start date. Be prepared to get on multiple waitlists and check in periodically. For school-age or preschool spots, the timeline may be shorter, but early inquiry is still key.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in and around Garfield, KY?
Parents in Garfield primarily have access to two types of licensed settings. The first is **licensed family childcare homes**, which are smaller, home-based operations often offering a more flexible, family-like environment. The second is **childcare centers**, which are larger facilities; the nearest centers are likely located in nearby towns like Hardinsburg or Cloverport. Given Garfield's rural nature, some families also utilize legally exempt, unlicensed "relative care" or small in-home providers who care for children from only one unrelated family. Always prioritize licensed options for regulated safety and quality standards.
Are there any state or local programs in Kentucky that help pay for preschool or early education?
Yes, Kentucky offers the **Kentucky Preschool Program (KPP)**, which is a state-funded program for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds. It is administered through local public school districts. Since Garfield is served by the Breckinridge County School District, you would contact them for specific eligibility (based on family income or a child's developmental delay) and availability. Some daycare centers in the region may also participate in this program, offering preschool curriculum within their facilities. For younger children, the federal Early Head Start program may be available through community action agencies serving the county, though access can be limited by location and funding.