The Best Daycare Centers in Kaplan, LA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Kaplan. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Kaplan
Little Angels Learning Academy
Independent
Little Angels Learning Academy is Kaplan's premier locally-owned childcare center offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center features a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy development, social-emotional learning, and kindergarten readiness. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low student-teacher ratios and participates in ongoing professional development. The facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern learning materials. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, consistent communication, and the director's hands-on approach to daily operations and child development.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center provides a structured yet nurturing educational environment with a focus on developmental milestones and school preparation. The center implements the Creative Curriculum system, incorporating hands-on learning activities, literacy enrichment, and STEM exploration. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The experienced teaching team includes certified early childhood educators who create individualized learning plans. The center is noted for its family-friendly atmosphere, nutritious meal program, and strong emphasis on parent-teacher partnerships.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Tree of Abbeville
Independent
Located just 7 miles from Kaplan in neighboring Abbeville, The Learning Tree serves families throughout Vermilion Parish with exceptional early childhood education programs. The center features a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development through play-based learning. Their state-licensed facility includes modern classrooms, computer learning stations, and expansive outdoor play areas. The highly qualified staff maintains advanced certifications in early childhood education and emergency response training. Parents consistently highlight the center's excellent communication, engaging activities, and the noticeable academic progress children make in preparation for elementary school.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Kaplan, LA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Kaplan, LA, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Kaplan, Louisiana, all childcare centers and family daycare homes serving seven or more children must be licensed by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE). Licensing ensures facilities meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff qualifications. You can verify a provider's license and view any compliance history through the LDOE's online Child Care Search portal. For smaller in-home providers (6 or fewer children), registration is optional but recommended. Always ask to see a current license certificate during your tour and check for any recent inspection reports posted, as required by state law.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Kaplan, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Kaplan area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $125 to $175 per week, while toddler care typically costs between $110 and $150 per week. These rates can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and whether it is a center or a home-based provider. For financial assistance, Louisiana's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible low-income families pay for care. You can apply through the Louisiana Department of Education. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Kaplan, and when should I start looking for care?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant and toddler spots at licensed centers and highly-regarded home-based providers in Kaplan, due to limited capacity. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, especially for infants under 12 months. Many popular centers have waitlists that can extend several months. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their current waitlist length, any fees to join the list, and how often they update families on their status. Starting early provides more options and reduces last-minute stress.
What are some key local factors to consider when touring a daycare in Kaplan, such as hurricane preparedness or local activities?
Given Kaplan's location in Acadiana and its vulnerability to hurricanes and severe weather, a crucial factor is the facility's emergency preparedness plan. Ask about their evacuation routes, backup power for refrigeration of milk/formula, and communication protocols with parents during storms. Additionally, consider how the daycare incorporates local culture; many quality providers in the area include elements of Cajun and Creole culture through music, simple French words, or local holiday celebrations. Also, inquire about outdoor play areas and their policies for extreme heat, which is common in South Louisiana summers.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Kaplan, besides traditional daycare centers?
Besides licensed childcare centers, Kaplan offers several alternatives. Licensed Family Child Care (FCC) homes are popular, offering a smaller, home-like setting for small groups of children. There are also faith-based preschool programs often attached to local churches, which may offer partial-day options. For school-age children, the Vermilion Parish School District may offer after-school programs. For more flexible or occasional care, networking with other parents for nanny-shares or checking local community boards for certified babysitters are options, though these require thorough vetting as they may not be state-regulated.