The Best Daycare Centers in Garrard, KY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Garrard. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Garrard
The Goddard School of Lancaster
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lancaster offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their state-licensed facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Certified teachers implement structured curriculum focusing on literacy, STEM, social skills, and creative arts. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios and provides nutritious meals. Parents praise the consistent communication through daily reports and the professional, caring staff with extensive early childhood education credentials.
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ABC Early Learning Center
Independent
ABC Early Learning Center provides comprehensive childcare services with a focus on developmental milestones and school readiness. Their research-based curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum and Kentucky Early Childhood Standards, emphasizing language development, cognitive skills, and social-emotional growth. The facility features secure monitoring systems, modern learning materials, and structured play environments. Staff members hold Child Development Associate credentials or higher degrees in early childhood education. The center is noted for its inclusive environment, regular parent-teacher conferences, and emphasis on creating a nurturing, educational atmosphere for all age groups.
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Primrose School of Richmond
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Richmond delivers the nationally recognized Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, mathematics, and science through hands-on activities. The secure facility includes age-specific learning environments, outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated art and music spaces. All teachers undergo comprehensive background checks and continuous professional development. The school emphasizes partnership with parents through regular communication, developmental assessments, and family engagement events. Their exclusive Harmony & Heart® program incorporates music and movement to support early brain development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Garrard, KY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Garrard County, Kentucky, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Garrard County, 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, and staff qualifications. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations by using the state's online "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the kynect.ky.gov website or by contacting the local CHFS office that serves the Danville region, which oversees Garrard County. It's highly recommended to choose a licensed provider for regulated safety and quality.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Garrard, KY, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited options in a rural county like Garrard, waitlists for infant and toddler care at licensed centers can be several months long, especially in the county seat of Lancaster. It's common for popular providers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. To secure a spot, parents should begin their search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a small waitlist fee. Consider expanding your search to neighboring towns like Danville (Boyle County) or Nicholasville (Jessamine County), but be mindful of the commute. Follow up with providers every few months to show continued interest.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Garrard County?
Costs in Garrard County are generally lower than in major Kentucky metros but vary by provider type. For a licensed childcare center, expect to pay approximately $130 to $180 per week for full-time infant/toddler care. Certified family childcare homes may range from $110 to $150 per week. Preschool-age care is often slightly less expensive. These are estimates, and prices can vary based on the program's amenities, hours, and meal provisions. It's crucial to ask about what's included (diapers, wipes, meals) and if there are registration or supply fees. Financial assistance may be available through the state's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families.
Are there any state or local programs in Kentucky that help with daycare costs for families in Garrard County?
Yes, the primary program is Kentucky's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provides subsidies to eligible low-income families, those in education/training programs, or those working a minimum number of hours. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the kynect.ky.gov portal. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. For preschool-aged children, you can also inquire about the Kentucky Public Preschool program, which is free for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds and may be housed within some local daycare centers or the Garrard County Schools system.
What are the main types of childcare options available within Garrard County itself, and how do they differ?
Parents in Garrard County typically have three main licensed options: 1) **Childcare Centers**: These are facilities like Little Learners Academy or programs within churches, offering structured care for multiple age groups with set curricula. 2) **Certified Family Child Care Homes**: Small, home-based settings caring for a limited number of children, often providing a more flexible, family-like environment. 3) **Registered Family Child Care Homes**: Care for up to 4 unrelated children with minimal regulation. For school-age children, the Garrard County Schools may offer before/after-school programs. Due to limited in-county options, many parents also utilize providers in neighboring Boyle and Jessamine counties. Always prioritize licensed or certified options for ensured oversight.