The Best Daycare Centers in Gilbertsville, KY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gilbertsville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gilbertsville
Kids Kingdom Learning Center
Independent
Kids Kingdom Learning Center is a highly-rated childcare facility known for its nurturing environment and structured educational programs. They employ a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy, math, and social skills development, aligned with Kentucky early learning standards. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, with many holding degrees in early childhood education. The center features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Parents praise the center for its small teacher-to-child ratios, regular communication through daily reports, and focus on individual developmental milestones. Their summer camp program includes enrichment activities and field trips, making it a standout choice for families in the Gilbertsville area.
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Benton Child Development Center
Independent
Benton Child Development Center offers a comprehensive early childhood program emphasizing school readiness and holistic development. Their curriculum blends Montessori-inspired activities with thematic units covering science, art, and language, fostering creativity and critical thinking. The center maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and employs staff with background checks and ongoing training in child development. Safety is prioritized with secured facilities, health screenings, and nutritious meal programs. The center is commended for its inclusive atmosphere, parent involvement opportunities, and use of technology for progress tracking. Located just minutes from Gilbertsville, it serves as a reliable option for quality childcare.
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KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center in Paducah is part of a nationally recognized network, offering high-quality childcare with a research-based curriculum that supports cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Their programs include phonics-based literacy, STEM activities, and character development, tailored to each age group. The center features certified teachers, robust safety protocols like keypad entry and emergency drills, and stimulating indoor/outdoor play spaces. Parents value the consistent communication, inclusive environment, and flexibility in scheduling. With a strong track record and accreditation from national organizations, this center provides excellent care for families commuting from Gilbertsville and the surrounding region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gilbertsville, KY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Gilbertsville, KY, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Gilbertsville and all of Kentucky, 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 sets standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/first aid), health and safety procedures, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's compliance and view their latest inspection reports, you can use the state's online "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the CHFS website. For Gilbertsville specifically, you can also contact the Purchase District Health Department or the local Child Care Aware of Kentucky office for assistance and referrals to licensed providers in the Marshall County area.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant and toddler daycare in Gilbertsville, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In the Gilbertsville and greater Marshall County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $130 to $180 per week, while toddler care may range from $120 to $160 per week. These costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and whether it is a home-based or center-based facility. For financial assistance, Kentucky's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible low-income families pay for childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or training requirements. You can apply through the local Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office in Benton, which serves Marshall County. Some local centers may also offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees.
Are there many daycare options with extended hours or weekend care in Gilbertsville to accommodate shift workers at places like Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park or local industries?
Due to the tourism and shift-work nature of the area surrounding Kentucky Lake and local industries, finding extended-hour or weekend care can be challenging but not impossible in Gilbertsville. Most traditional daycare centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. However, some licensed family childcare homes may offer more flexible hours to accommodate non-traditional schedules. It's crucial to inquire directly with providers about their availability for evenings, early mornings, or weekends. Networking with other local parents through community groups or Facebook pages like "Marshall County, KY Parents" can also help identify caregivers who offer flexible arrangements to meet the needs of shift workers.
What types of preschool or early learning programs are integrated into daycare services in Gilbertsville, and how do they prepare children for local kindergarten?
Several daycare centers in and around Gilbertsville offer structured preschool programs for children ages 3-5, often aligned with Kentucky's Early Childhood Standards. These programs focus on school readiness skills like early literacy (phonemic awareness), basic math concepts, social-emotional development, and fine motor skills. Given that children will typically attend Marshall County Elementary Schools, these local daycare preschools aim to prepare them for the district's kindergarten curriculum. Some providers may use curricula like Creative Curriculum or HighScope. When touring facilities, ask about their daily schedule, teacher qualifications, and how they track developmental milestones to ensure a smooth transition to public school.
How long are waitlists for infant daycare spots in Gilbertsville, and when should I start my search?
Due to limited infant care slots (driven by strict staff-to-child ratios), waitlists for infants at licensed centers in the Gilbertsville area can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy. For family childcare homes, which have fewer total spots, availability can be even more sporadic. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be sure to ask about their specific policies—some may require a deposit to hold a future spot. Persistence and flexibility are key; also consider expanding your search to nearby communities like Benton or Calvert City if you are commuting.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Gilbertsville: