The Best Daycare Centers in Fair Haven, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fair Haven. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fair Haven
Kiddie Academy of New Baltimore
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of New Baltimore provides comprehensive educational childcare with a nationally-recognized Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, secure classroom access, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Highly qualified teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities in modern, clean classrooms with low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes both indoor and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups, and offers nutritious meals prepared on-site. Parents praise the consistent communication through daily reports and the center's commitment to each child's individual development.
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The Learning Experience - Richmond
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Richmond offers a proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, foreign language, manners and etiquette, and fitness programming. The center features bright, colorful classrooms with dedicated learning centers and age-appropriate educational materials. All teachers receive comprehensive training in early childhood development and maintain CPR/first aid certifications. The facility includes secure entry systems, camera monitoring, and rigorous safety protocols. Parents consistently highlight the engaging curriculum, excellent communication through their mobile app, and the caring, professional staff who create a nurturing environment for children's growth and development.
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Chesterfield Academy
Chesterfield Academy
Chesterfield Academy provides a well-rounded early education program with a focus on school readiness through structured learning activities and play-based exploration. The curriculum emphasizes literacy development, mathematics concepts, science exploration, and social skills. The center maintains small class sizes with experienced early childhood educators who create individualized learning plans for each child. Facilities include secure entry systems, modern classrooms with natural lighting, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated art and music areas. The academy offers enrichment programs in music, movement, and technology. Parents appreciate the strong sense of community, transparent communication, and the center's commitment to preparing children for academic success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fair Haven, MI
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Fair Haven, Michigan, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Michigan, all childcare providers caring for more than one unrelated child must be licensed by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). This includes family homes (group and family) and childcare centers. Licensed providers in Fair Haven must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections (fire, health, and building), background checks for all employees, and ongoing training. To verify a facility's license and view any past violations, you can use the official **LARA Child Care Licensing Search** tool online. It's highly recommended to check this database and even ask the provider directly for their license number and most recent inspection report.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Fair Haven, MI?
Childcare costs in Fair Haven and the surrounding St. Clair County area are generally lower than the state average but can vary significantly based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately **$175 to $250 per week** for full-time infant care. Family home daycares often range from **$125 to $200 per week**. Costs for toddlers are typically slightly lower. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, snacks, formula, curriculum). For financial assistance, Michigan offers the **Child Development and Care (CDC) program** for eligible families, and some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Fair Haven, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant spots at licensed centers and highly-regarded home daycares in Fair Haven, especially given the limited number of providers in a smaller community. For infant care, it is advisable to **begin your search and get on waitlists during your second trimester of pregnancy**, if possible. For toddler or preschool-age openings, starting 3-6 months in advance is recommended. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist: Is there a fee to be on it? How often is it updated? What is the typical wait time? Exploring options in nearby towns like Algonac or Marine City can also increase your chances of finding an opening sooner.
What are my options for part-time or drop-in childcare in Fair Haven?
Finding consistent part-time or drop-in care in a smaller town like Fair Haven can be challenging, as most licensed providers prioritize full-time enrollments to maintain stable income and staffing. Your best options are to: 1) Inquire with local family home daycares, as they may have more flexibility to accommodate a part-time schedule. 2) Look for registered "unlicensed" providers (caring for up to 6 children, including their own), who may offer more casual arrangements. 3) Consider forming a nanny share with another family in the community. 4) Utilize occasional drop-in services at larger centers in neighboring cities like Port Huron, though this requires planning for travel. Networking through local Facebook parent groups for Fair Haven/St. Clair County is a great way to find these less-advertised options.
How does Michigan's Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) work for preschoolers in Fair Haven, and where is it available?
The Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) is Michigan's state-funded preschool program for 4-year-olds who may be at risk of educational challenges. It is a free, high-quality program that follows strict curriculum and teacher qualification standards. In Fair Haven and the surrounding area, GSRP is typically administered through the **East China School District** or local intermediate school districts. Eligibility is based on factors like family income, but the program also accepts a percentage of tuition-paying students. Spaces are limited and awarded by lottery. Parents should contact the East China School District's early childhood department directly in the winter/spring prior to the fall their child turns 4 to inquire about application timelines, location of classrooms (which may be in district elementary schools or partner centers), and eligibility screening.