The Best Daycare Centers in Cass City, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cass City. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cass City
Cass City Early Childhood Center
Cass City Public Schools
The Cass City Early Childhood Center operates as part of the Cass City Public Schools system, providing high-quality early childhood education with certified teachers and structured curriculum. The center focuses on school readiness through play-based learning, social-emotional development, and age-appropriate academic foundations. Features small class sizes, licensed early childhood educators, and comprehensive developmental screening. The facility includes dedicated early childhood classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and follows all state licensing requirements for safety and quality.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Kottage of Caro
Independent
Kiddie Kottage of Caro serves families throughout Tuscola County including Cass City residents, offering comprehensive childcare from infancy through school age. The center features a structured educational curriculum that includes literacy development, STEM activities, and creative arts. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with extensive training in child development. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios, secure entry systems, and nutritious meal programs. Highly regarded for its warm, nurturing environment and strong parent communication system.
Daycare Services:
Unionville Elementary Preschool
Unionville-Sebewaing Area School District
Unionville Elementary Preschool serves the broader Thumb region including Cass City families, offering a developmentally appropriate preschool program within a public school setting. The program emphasizes literacy development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness through hands-on learning experiences. Features state-certified teachers, structured curriculum aligned with Michigan early learning standards, and comprehensive assessment tracking. The facility includes modern classrooms, outdoor play areas, and integrated technology resources. Known for strong parent-teacher partnerships and individualized learning approaches.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cass City, MI
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Cass City, MI?
In Cass City, parents typically have three main licensed options: licensed home-based daycares (often called family childcare homes), licensed group homes, and childcare centers. Cass City, being a smaller rural community in Michigan's Thumb region, has a higher proportion of in-home providers compared to large centers. The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) oversees all licensing. You can search for licensed providers in the Cass City zip code (48726) on the LARA website. Many local providers also participate in the Great Start to Quality rating system, which can help you compare quality.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Cass City, and are there financial assistance programs?
In the Cass City area, costs are generally lower than state averages but vary by provider type. For an infant, you might expect to pay between $150-$225 per week at a licensed home daycare and $175-$275 per week at a center. Rates decrease slightly for toddlers and preschoolers. For financial assistance, Michigan's Child Development and Care (CDC) program is the primary subsidy. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance. Locally, you can apply through the Tuscola County Department of Human Services in Caro. Additionally, some providers may offer sibling discounts.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Cass City, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Waitlists can be common, especially for infant care and at the more sought-after licensed homes or the limited number of centers. Due to the smaller pool of providers in Cass City, availability can be tight. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care, and if you are expecting, to get on lists during your second trimester. Don't hesitate to call providers directly to ask about their current capacity and typical wait times, as this can fluctuate.
What should I look for during a daycare tour specific to a Cass City provider?
Beyond standard safety and cleanliness checks, ask questions relevant to the local setting. For home-based providers, inquire about their outdoor play space and policies for walks around the neighborhood. Ask about their plan for severe weather common to the Thumb region, like winter snowstorms or summer power outages. For any provider, ask about their connection to local resources like the Cass City United Methodist Church's preschool program or the Tuscola County Intermediate School District's early childhood services. Also, verify their license is current with LARA and ask about their experience serving families in this close-knit community.
Are there part-time, drop-in, or after-school care options for school-age children in Cass City?
Options for school-age care are more limited but available. Cass City Elementary School may offer before and after-school programs; contact the Cass City Public Schools district office for the most current information. Some licensed home providers also offer before/after school care and transportation to/from the elementary school. For drop-in or occasional care, it is very rare to find licensed providers who offer this in Cass City due to strict licensing ratios and the demand for full-time spots. Your best bet for flexible care is to network with other parents or explore registered, unlicensed (but legal) childcare arrangements for occasional needs.