The Best Daycare Centers in Fenton, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fenton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fenton
The Goddard School of Fenton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Fenton offers a premier early childhood education program with FLEX (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and enrichment programs including yoga, music, and Spanish. They emphasize STEAM learning, social-emotional development, and individualized learning plans with regular progress reports for parents.
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Little Learners Child Development Center
Independent
Little Learners Child Development Center provides comprehensive childcare with a focus on developmental milestones and school readiness. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with hands-on learning activities, literacy development, and character education. The center features secure facilities with camera monitoring, nutritious meal programs, and experienced staff with ongoing professional development. They maintain excellent staff retention rates and offer flexible scheduling options including full-time, part-time, and drop-in care with strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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The Learning Experience - Grand Blanc
The Learning Experience
Located just 15 minutes from Fenton in Grand Blanc, The Learning Experience offers a nationally-recognized early education program serving the broader Genesee County area. Their L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies with specialized enrichment in philanthropy, manners, and foreign language. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, USDA-approved nutrition programs, and highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education. They provide regular parent updates through mobile apps and maintain exceptional health and safety protocols with on-site nursing staff.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fenton, MI
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Fenton, MI?
In Fenton, Michigan, the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare typically ranges from $225 to $350 per week, depending on the type of facility. Licensed home-based daycares often fall on the lower end of that range, while larger childcare centers or those with specialized educational programs may charge more. This is slightly below the state average for Michigan, but costs can vary based on factors like staff-to-child ratios, included meals, and curriculum. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as diapers, wipes, and formula. Many facilities in the area also require an annual registration fee.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Fenton, and how can I secure a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common for many reputable daycare centers and licensed in-home providers in Fenton, especially for infant care, which has the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It's not unusual for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. To secure a spot, parents are advised to begin their search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask about their specific waitlist process—some require a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot, while others simply add you to a list. Staying in regular, polite contact (e.g., a check-in every 2-3 months) can also be beneficial.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Michigan, and how can I verify a Fenton provider's license?
All childcare providers in Michigan caring for more than one unrelated child must be licensed by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Licensing ensures providers meet health, safety, and educational standards, including background checks, safe environments, and required training. To verify the license status and view any past violations for a provider in Fenton, you can use the official **LARA Child Care Licensing Search** tool online. Simply enter the provider's name or location. It's a critical step to ensure the daycare is legally operating and in good standing with the state.
What childcare options are available for parents with non-traditional or shift work schedules in Fenton?
Finding childcare for evenings, overnight, or weekends can be challenging in Fenton, as most traditional centers operate Monday-Friday from around 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Your best options are to seek out licensed home-based daycares, as some providers may offer more flexible hours to accommodate shift workers. Additionally, you can explore networks like Care.com or local Fenton/Genesee County Facebook parenting groups to find qualified nannies or babysitters who offer flexible care. A few larger centers in the broader Flint area may offer extended hours, but they are less common locally. Planning and research well in advance is essential.
Are there any local resources or programs in Fenton that help parents pay for childcare?
Yes, eligible families in Fenton can apply for assistance through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) **Child Development and Care (CDC) program**, often referred to as the childcare subsidy. This program helps low-income working families, those in training/education, or those receiving protective services pay for licensed childcare. You apply through the Genesee County MDHHS office. Additionally, some local daycare centers may offer sibling discounts or scholarships. The **Great Start to Quality** website, Michigan's quality rating system, is also an invaluable resource for finding and comparing licensed providers that accept subsidy payments.