The Best Daycare Centers in Lexington, KY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lexington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lexington
The Goddard School of Lexington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Lexington offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. Features state-certified teachers with bachelor's degrees in education, secure keypad entry systems, live streaming cameras for parent viewing, and nutritionally balanced meals. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated art and music rooms, and comprehensive safety protocols with regular drills.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Lexington
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Lexington provides Balanced Learning® approach combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. Their exclusive curriculum includes literacy development, mathematics, science, and social studies. Features degreed lead teachers, low student-teacher ratios, secure building access, and daily communication with parents through the Primrose Schools app. The facility includes outdoor learning environments, dedicated music and art studios, and follows strict health and safety protocols with on-site health and safety coordinator.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Lexington
Kiddie Academy Domestic Franchising
Kiddie Academy of Lexington offers Life Essentials® curriculum that promotes social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development through hands-on learning experiences. Their program includes character education, STEM activities, and literacy development. Features highly qualified teachers with ongoing professional development, electronic security systems, real-time updates through the Kiddie Academy Mobile App, and nutritious meals prepared on-site. The facility includes interactive whiteboards, age-appropriate learning centers, and secure outdoor playgrounds with safety surfacing and shaded areas.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lexington, KY
What are the typical costs for infant daycare in Lexington, KY, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Lexington, the average cost for full-time infant daycare ranges from $800 to $1,200 per month, depending on the type of center, its location, and the amenities offered. Church-affiliated centers or in-home licensed providers may be on the lower end, while accredited centers or those with specialized curricula tend to be higher. For financial assistance, Kentucky’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is a primary resource for eligible families based on income and need, administered through the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Additionally, some Lexington employers, like the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare, offer dependent care flexible spending accounts or referral services. It's also worth checking with individual centers about possible sibling discounts or sliding scale fees.
How long are waitlists for popular daycare centers in Lexington, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers in Lexington, particularly for infants and toddlers, can be quite long, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer. This is especially true for centers affiliated with major employers, universities, or those with high star ratings in Kentucky’s STARS for KIDS NOW quality rating system. To improve your chances, start your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. Be proactive: follow up with centers every 4-6 weeks to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in your neighborhood, which may have shorter wait times and offer a more home-like setting.
What is the STARS for KIDS NOW rating system, and how should I use it when choosing a daycare in Lexington?
STARS for KIDS NOW is Kentucky’s voluntary quality rating and improvement system for licensed childcare providers. Programs are rated from 1 to 5 stars, with more stars indicating higher quality in areas like staff qualifications, learning environment, and family engagement. When searching for daycare in Lexington, you can use this as a crucial tool. A center’s star rating is often displayed on its website or at its facility, and you can verify ratings through the Kentucky Division of Child Care website. While a higher star rating is generally a positive indicator, it should be one factor among many. Always schedule a tour to observe the environment, ask about staff turnover, and ensure the philosophy aligns with your family's needs. A 3-star center with a nurturing, stable staff might be a better fit than a 5-star center that doesn't feel right.
Are there specific regulations or safety requirements for daycare playgrounds in Lexington given the variable Kentucky weather?
Yes, all licensed childcare facilities in Lexington must comply with Kentucky’s childcare licensing regulations, which include specific standards for outdoor play areas. These require safe, enclosed spaces with age-appropriate equipment that is securely anchored and free of hazards. Given Lexington's climate—with hot, humid summers and cold winters—providers must also have policies for weather-appropriate outdoor play. This includes providing shade and water in the summer (with heat index safety protocols) and ensuring children have proper coats and limiting exposure during freezing temperatures. During tours, ask about their outdoor play schedule and inclement weather policies. Many centers also have indoor gross motor areas for days when outdoor play isn't feasible.
What options exist for backup or emergency childcare in Lexington if my regular provider is closed or my child is mildly ill?
Finding backup care in Lexington can be challenging, but several options exist. Some local daycare centers offer occasional "drop-in" care slots if space is available, though this is rare and usually requires pre-registration. A more reliable option is to use a licensed, in-home family childcare provider who may have more flexibility. Additionally, national backup care networks like Bright Horizons Back-Up Care have partnerships with some Lexington employers, such as UK. For mildly ill children who cannot attend their regular daycare due to exclusion policies (e.g., a mild fever), specialized "sick child care" is extremely limited in Lexington. Your best bet is to have a plan with family, a trusted friend, or a nanny-share backup. Always discuss sick policies and potential backup arrangements with any provider before enrolling.