The Best Daycare Centers in Saint Mary, KY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Saint Mary. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Saint Mary
Little Blessings Child Care & Learning Center
Independent
Little Blessings is a highly-regarded Christian-based childcare center serving the Saint Mary area with a comprehensive early childhood education program. They implement the Creative Curriculum system with age-appropriate learning activities that focus on social-emotional development, literacy, mathematics, and cognitive skills. The center features certified early childhood educators with low teacher-to-child ratios, secure entry systems, and modern safety protocols. Their facility includes dedicated infant rooms, spacious preschool classrooms, and large outdoor playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and the center's focus on school readiness through structured learning activities combined with play-based exploration.
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Kids Kingdom Learning Center
Independent
Kids Kingdom Learning Center serves families throughout Western Kentucky including the Saint Mary community with a research-based educational approach. Their curriculum emphasizes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities integrated with traditional preschool learning. The center employs degreed early childhood professionals and maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. Safety features include secured access, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility offers bright, well-equipped classrooms, a commercial kitchen providing nutritious meals, and multiple outdoor play areas. Parents highlight the center's strong academic preparation, experienced teaching staff, and comprehensive developmental tracking system.
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Imagination Station Child Development Center
Regional Childcare Management
Imagination Station provides high-quality early childhood education to families in Graves County and surrounding areas including Saint Mary. Their developmentally appropriate curriculum focuses on whole-child development through structured learning centers, literacy-rich environments, and hands-on activities. The center features state-licensed teachers with ongoing professional development, modern security systems including camera monitoring, and strict health protocols. Facilities include specialized infant care rooms, toddler learning environments, preschool classrooms with interactive technology, and secure outdoor playgrounds. The center is particularly noted for its inclusive environment, strong parent partnership program, and comprehensive transition support for children moving between age groups.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Saint Mary, KY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Saint Mary, KY, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Saint Mary, 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 (like background checks and training). To verify a facility's license and compliance history, you can use the state's online "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the CHFS website. This tool shows the provider's license status, any recent violations, and their star rating in Kentucky's STARS for KIDS NOW quality rating system. It's a crucial first step for parents in Saint Mary to ensure their chosen provider operates legally and safely.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Saint Mary, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Saint Mary and surrounding Marion County, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $130 to $180 per week, while toddler care may cost between $110 and $150 per week. These rates are generally lower than in larger Kentucky cities like Louisville. For financial assistance, eligible families can apply for the Kentucky Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which is administered locally through the Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. Given the rural nature of the area, securing a CCAP slot can be competitive, so applying early is recommended.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Saint Mary, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed childcare facilities in Saint Mary and Marion County, waitlists can vary significantly. For infant care at the most sought-after centers, waitlists of 6 to 12 months are not uncommon. For toddler and preschool slots, wait times may be shorter, around 3 to 6 months. It is strongly advised that expecting parents or families planning a move to Saint Mary begin researching and contacting providers as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or several months before the needed start date. Getting on multiple lists can increase your chances of securing a spot.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Saint Mary, KY?
Saint Mary offers a mix of childcare options, though choices are more limited than in urban areas. The most common types are licensed childcare centers, which are often affiliated with churches or community organizations, and certified family childcare homes that operate in a provider's residence. There are fewer large corporate chain centers. Given the city's small size, many families also rely on informal arrangements with relatives or licensed in-home providers. For preschool-aged children, some local centers offer part-day preschool programs. Exploring options in nearby towns like Lebanon may be necessary for some families to find a suitable fit.
Are there any unique local resources or organizations in Saint Mary that help parents find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, a key local resource is the **Marion County Family Resource and Youth Services Center (FRYSC)**, which serves the Saint Mary area through the local school district. While they primarily serve enrolled students and their families, they can often provide referrals and information about local childcare providers. Additionally, parents can contact the **Kentucky Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) network** by calling 1-877-626-6808 or visiting their website. This state-wide service offers free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in your specific zip code and can provide guidance on what to look for during a visit and questions to ask providers in the Saint Mary community.