The Best Daycare Centers in Higgins Lake, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Higgins Lake. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Higgins Lake
Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities. The center features certified early childhood educators with low student-teacher ratios, secure entry systems, and regular safety drills. They offer nutritious meals and snacks through their USDA-approved food program. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, indoor gross motor play areas, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents praise their excellent communication through daily reports and parent portal access.
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Tiny Tots Learning Center
Independent
Tiny Tots Learning Center offers a balanced curriculum that combines Montessori-inspired activities with traditional early learning standards. Their program emphasizes hands-on learning, creative expression, and developing independence. The center maintains state-licensed teachers with ongoing professional development and background checks. Safety features include secured entry, comprehensive camera systems, and strict health protocols. The facility features bright, organized classrooms, dedicated art and music areas, and multiple outdoor play spaces with natural elements. They provide transportation to local elementary schools and offer flexible scheduling options for working families.
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ABC Early Learning Center
Regional Childcare Network
ABC Early Learning Center provides a research-based curriculum focused on school readiness and whole-child development. Their program includes daily literacy activities, mathematics exploration, science discovery, and character education. The center employs degreed early childhood professionals with specialized training in child development. Safety is prioritized with keypad entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness training. The modern facility features developmentally appropriate learning centers, technology-integrated classrooms, and expansive outdoor learning environments. They offer enrichment programs including music, movement, and Spanish language exposure, with regular progress assessments shared with parents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Higgins Lake, MI
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Higgins Lake, MI, and how do I find them?
In Higgins Lake and the surrounding Roscommon County area, your primary options for licensed childcare are licensed family homes (also called home-based daycare) and licensed childcare centers. Due to the rural nature of the community, licensed family homes are more common than large centers. To find licensed providers, your best resource is Great Start to Quality, Michigan's official quality rating and improvement system for childcare. You can use their website or call 877-614-7328 to search for licensed providers by zip code (48627 for Higgins Lake). The Roscommon County Great Start Collaborative is also a valuable local contact for referrals and information on early childhood resources in the area.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Higgins Lake, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists in Higgins Lake can vary significantly but are often lengthy, especially for infant care and year-round spots, due to limited provider availability. It's not uncommon for popular licensed family homes or the nearest centers in nearby towns like Roscommon to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. To secure a spot, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers to get on several waitlists. Be proactive and check in every few months to express continued interest. Consider expanding your search to neighboring communities such as Houghton Lake or Prudenville, and be flexible with your start date if possible.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Higgins Lake, MI?
Costs in Higgins Lake are generally lower than state averages but can vary based on the type of care and the provider's qualifications. For a licensed family home, you can expect to pay approximately $150 to $225 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. A licensed childcare center in a nearby town may range from $175 to $275 per week. These rates are estimates; always confirm directly with the provider. To help with costs, explore if you qualify for the Michigan Child Development and Care (CDC) subsidy program through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Some local providers may also offer sibling discounts.
Are there any seasonal or summer-only childcare programs available for school-age children in Higgins Lake?
Yes, given Higgins Lake's status as a popular summer destination, there are seasonal options, though they require early planning. The most consistent program is often offered through the local school district, Roscommon Area Public Schools, which may run a summer camp or school-age childcare program. Community organizations like the Houghton Lake Chapel or the Roscommon County Community Center sometimes offer summer day camps. Additionally, some licensed family home providers may offer flexible summer care for school-age children. It's crucial to inquire and register for these programs by early spring, as spaces are limited and fill quickly with both year-round and seasonal families.
What specific licensing regulations and safety standards should I verify with a daycare provider in Michigan?
All licensed providers in Michigan, including those in Higgins Lake, must adhere to strict rules set by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Key standards to ask about include: staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants), maximum group sizes, background checks for all adults in the home or center, ongoing training in CPR/first aid and child development, and safe sleep practices for infants. You have the right to view the provider's current license and any recent inspection reports, which note compliance or violations. You can also look for a provider's quality rating on Great Start to Quality (rated 1 to 5 stars). For in-home care, also inquire about their emergency evacuation plan for the rural area and their policy on visitors.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Higgins Lake: