The Best Daycare Centers in Franklin, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Franklin. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Franklin
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Bloomfield Hills serves the Franklin area with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes STEAM education and social-emotional development. Their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program incorporates hands-on activities, foreign language exposure, and yoga. The school features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and interior cameras, with all teachers holding degrees in early childhood education or related fields. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds and dedicated art/music rooms, with a strong focus on individualized learning plans and regular parent communication through daily reports and a proprietary mobile app.
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Bright Horizons at Somerset
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Somerset serves Franklin families with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes emergent literacy, mathematics, and scientific thinking. Their World at Their Fingertips® curriculum includes the Growing Readers® literacy program and STEM-focused activities. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios with all lead teachers holding bachelor's degrees and ongoing professional development. Security features include biometric entry systems, secure perimeters, and comprehensive background checks. The facility offers nutritious meals prepared on-site and features spacious classrooms with natural lighting, outdoor learning environments, and dedicated spaces for motor skill development.
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The Learning Experience - Bloomfield Hills
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Bloomfield Hills serves the Franklin community with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that includes early literacy, mathematics, and social skills development. The center features the Bubbles U® foreign language program and philanthropy-focused curriculum that teaches children about giving back. Safety protocols include secured entry systems, comprehensive camera monitoring, and strict health screening procedures. All lead teachers hold early childhood credentials with ongoing training in child development best practices. The facility includes modern classrooms, interactive learning centers, and age-appropriate outdoor play areas designed to stimulate physical development and creative exploration.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Franklin, MI
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Franklin, MI, and what factors influence the price?
In Franklin, MI, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 per month. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, averaging between $1,000 and $1,500 per month. These prices are influenced by several local factors, including the type of facility (a licensed in-home daycare versus a larger childcare center), the staff-to-child ratio, the inclusion of educational curricula or enrichment programs (like language or music), and whether meals and snacks are provided. Facilities in Franklin with extended hours or those affiliated with corporate chains or religious institutions may also command different rates. It's advisable to budget for potential annual increases and inquire about any registration or supply fees, which are common in the area.
How do I verify that a daycare or childcare provider in Franklin is properly licensed and what are Michigan's key regulations for childcare?
All licensed childcare providers in Michigan, including those in Franklin, are regulated by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the online "Child Care Licensing Search" tool on the LARA website. Key state regulations include mandatory background checks for all staff, specific staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants), annual training requirements in topics like CPR and safe sleep practices (particularly important given Michigan's emphasis on reducing infant sleep-related deaths), and regular facility inspections for health and safety. Always ask a provider for their license number and cross-reference it online before enrolling your child.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Franklin, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, due to high demand for quality childcare in the Franklin and greater Southeast Michigan area, many reputable centers and popular in-home providers have significant waitlists, especially for infant rooms. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move to Franklin begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6-9 months before their desired start date. For toddler or preschool spots, starting 3-6 months in advance is advisable. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $50-$100) and to check in periodically with the center to maintain your position. Exploring multiple options, including both centers and licensed home-based providers in Franklin and neighboring communities like Bingham Farms or Beverly Hills, can increase your chances of securing a spot.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Franklin, MI, beyond traditional daycare centers?
Franklin offers a variety of childcare options to suit different family needs. Beyond corporate or faith-based daycare centers, common alternatives include: 1. **Licensed Group and Family Home Daycares:** Smaller, home-based settings often offering a more intimate environment, typically caring for a smaller number of children. These are popular in Franklin's residential neighborhoods. 2. **Preschools/Nursery Schools:** Many local churches, synagogues, and private schools offer part-day preschool programs for children ages 3-5, which may focus on early academics and socialization. 3. **Nanny Shares or Au Pairs:** Given Franklin's affluence, some families opt for in-home care by partnering with another family to share a nanny's cost or by hosting an au pair. 4. **Drop-in or Flexible Care Centers:** While less common, some facilities in nearby commercial areas like Southfield or Troy offer more flexible, reservation-based care for occasional needs.
What resources are available for Franklin families seeking financial assistance with childcare costs?
Franklin families may qualify for several financial assistance programs. The primary resource is the **Michigan Department of Education's Child Development and Care (CDC) program** (often called the "childcare subsidy"), which helps low to moderate-income working or attending-school families pay for care. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. Additionally, many Franklin-area employers, particularly in the automotive and tech sectors in nearby Detroit and Ann Arbor, offer **Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)**, allowing you to use pre-tax dollars for childcare. Some local daycare centers also offer sibling discounts or limited scholarship opportunities—it's always worth asking directly. For guidance, you can contact the **Oakland County Community Resource Hub** or the nonprofit **4C of Oakland County** (Community Coordinated Child Care) for referrals and assistance applications.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Franklin: