The Best Daycare Centers in Harrison, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harrison. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harrison
Little Learners Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Little Learners Preschool & Childcare is Harrison's premier locally-owned childcare center offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. Their play-based curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities tailored to each age group. The center features certified early childhood educators with an average of 8+ years experience, maintaining low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. Facilities include secure indoor classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers and a large fenced outdoor playground. They provide nutritious meals and snacks, daily communication with parents through a dedicated app, and regular developmental assessments. Their strong focus on community involvement and family partnerships makes them a trusted choice for Harrison families.
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ABC Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
Located just 10 minutes from Harrison in neighboring Clare, ABC Childcare & Learning Center serves families throughout Clare County with their comprehensive educational programs. They implement a structured curriculum that balances academic readiness with creative expression and physical development. The center employs state-qualified teachers with CPR/First Aid certification and ongoing professional development. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. Their facility includes separate infant and toddler wings, dedicated preschool classrooms, and multiple outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise their transparent communication, experienced staff, and the center's commitment to creating a nurturing, stimulating environment for children's growth.
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Mid Michigan Community Action - Head Start & Early Head Start
Mid Michigan Community Action Agency
Serving Harrison and surrounding communities through their Gladwin location, this federally-funded program provides high-quality early childhood education to income-eligible families. Their comprehensive approach includes evidence-based curriculum focusing on school readiness, health and nutrition services, and strong family engagement. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices with emphasis on literacy, math, and social skills. The program offers full-day options with nutritious meals, health screenings, and transportation services for qualifying families. Their family advocates work closely with parents to support child development and connect families with community resources. With rigorous quality standards and a holistic approach to child development, they provide exceptional educational experiences for young children in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harrison, MI
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Harrison, Michigan, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Harrison, 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 home licenses) and childcare centers. LARA conducts comprehensive background checks, inspects for health and safety standards (like safe sleep practices for infants, childproofing, and emergency plans), and ensures staff-to-child ratios and staff qualifications are met. 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 to see their most recent licensing report.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Harrison, MI, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Harrison, waitlists for infant and toddler care at licensed centers can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months. For preschool-age children, wait times may be shorter but are still common. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Get on multiple waitlists, even for facilities that aren't your top choice, as a backup. Stay in regular contact (a polite check-in every 2-3 months) to show continued interest. Also, explore licensed family home daycares, which may have more immediate openings and offer a smaller, home-like setting.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Harrison, and are there any local or state assistance programs?
In Harrison and the surrounding Clare County area, costs vary by type of care and the child's age. On average, parents can expect to pay approximately **$150-$225 per week** for a licensed family home daycare and **$175-$275 per week** for a childcare center. Infant care is typically at the higher end of this range. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) **Child Development and Care (CDC) program**. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or school attendance). You can apply online via MI Bridges or contact the Clare County MDHHS office for guidance.
Are there any unique childcare options in Harrison that cater to parents with non-traditional or seasonal work hours?
Given Harrison's location near state recreation areas and its seasonal tourism, finding care for evening, weekend, or overnight shifts can be challenging. Traditional centers typically operate Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Your best bet is to seek out licensed family home providers who may offer more flexible hours, as they have more individual discretion. Be sure to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront. For occasional or emergency care, networking with other local parents or exploring in-home nanny shares might be necessary, as there are no dedicated 24-hour childcare facilities in the immediate area.
What resources are available in Harrison to help me evaluate and choose a quality daycare?
Beyond checking the LARA licensing website, parents in Harrison have several local resources. **Great Start to Quality**, Michigan's quality rating and improvement system, is an invaluable tool. You can search for programs in the 48625 zip code and see if they are rated (1-5 stars). While not all providers participate, a high rating is a strong indicator of quality. Additionally, you can contact the **Great Start Collaborative of Clare and Gladwin Counties** for referrals and support. Finally, nothing replaces an in-person visit. When you tour a facility, ask about their curriculum, staff turnover, outdoor play areas (important in our rural setting), and their policies for communication and sick children.