The Best Daycare Centers in Highland, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Highland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Highland
The Goddard School of Highland
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Highland offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Certified teachers implement a play-based curriculum focusing on literacy, STEM, art, and social development. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios and provides daily communication with parents through their proprietary app. Their safety protocols include comprehensive background checks, regular safety drills, and stringent health and cleanliness standards.
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Milford Children's House
Independent Montessori School
Located just minutes from Highland, Milford Children's House provides authentic Montessori education for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. The center features certified Montessori teachers with specialized training in the Montessori method, emphasizing hands-on learning, independence, and individualized development. Their curriculum includes practical life skills, sensorial activities, language development, mathematics, and cultural studies. The facility offers beautiful, well-maintained classrooms with natural materials and extensive outdoor learning environments. Parents consistently praise the nurturing atmosphere, experienced staff, and the exceptional academic preparation children receive.
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Hartland Child Development Center
Independent Childcare Center
Hartland Child Development Center serves the Highland community with a comprehensive educational program that emphasizes whole-child development. Their research-based curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum and HighScope approaches, focusing on active participatory learning and key developmental indicators. The center features highly qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, maintaining excellent staff-to-child ratios. Facilities include secure, modern classrooms, multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated art and music areas. The center is known for its strong parent partnerships, regular progress reporting, and commitment to creating a safe, inclusive environment where children thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Highland, MI
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Highland, MI, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Highland, MI, the cost of full-time daycare varies significantly based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,600 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers, costs typically range from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Home-based licensed childcare often costs slightly less, averaging $800-$1,200 monthly. These rates are influenced by Oakland County's higher cost of living compared to state averages. For financial assistance, Michigan's Child Development and Care (CDC) program is the primary resource for eligible families. Additionally, local organizations like the Livingston County United Way (serving parts of the Highland area) may offer guidance or supplemental support. It's highly recommended to contact providers directly, as some may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Highland?
All licensed childcare providers in Highland, MI, are regulated by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). The most reliable tool for parents is the online **LARA Child Care Licensing Search** portal. Here, you can search by provider name, city (Highland), or zip code to access the facility's current license status, capacity, age ranges served, and any substantiated licensing complaints. Crucially, you can view detailed inspection reports that note any rule violations and the corrective actions taken. For an added layer of due diligence, you can contact the local licensing consultant for Oakland County. Always ask a provider for their license number and cross-reference it online; a reputable center will readily provide this information.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Highland, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for daycare centers in Highland, especially for infant rooms. Due to high demand and limited infant-to-staff ratios mandated by Michigan law (1:4), spots fill up quickly. For infant care, it is advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists **6 to 12 months** before your needed start date. For toddler and preschool programs, a lead time of 3 to 6 months is more typical but still recommended. Many popular centers in the Huron Valley Schools district area maintain year-long waitlists. When touring, ask specifically about the current waitlist length, whether a deposit is required to hold a spot, and how often the list is updated. Considering a mix of centers and licensed home-based providers can increase your options.
What are the options for drop-in or part-time childcare in the Highland area?
Structured drop-in or occasional part-time care is less common than full-time enrollment in Highland, but options do exist. Some local licensed home daycare providers may offer flexible part-time schedules or have space for occasional care. Additionally, several fitness centers in nearby communities (like the YMCA in Milford or White Lake) offer parent's day out or childcare for members during workouts. For more regular part-time care (e.g., 2-3 days a week), your best bet is to inquire directly with smaller centers and home providers about their flexibility; some may offer a "part-time slot" if it fits their enrollment structure. For true emergency or last-minute care, networks like Care.com or Sittercity can help you find local, background-checked sitters, though these are not licensed daycare substitutes.
What unique outdoor or enrichment programs do Highland daycares offer, given the local environment?
Many daycare providers in Highland leverage the area's natural setting near the Highland Recreation Area and numerous lakes. Look for programs that emphasize outdoor play and nature-based learning. Common enrichments include structured outdoor time in all seasons (with appropriate gear), gardening projects, and local field trips to places like the Highland Township Library or Springfield Oaks County Park. Some centers incorporate STEM learning aligned with local interests in engineering and manufacturing. Furthermore, given Highland's community-focused atmosphere, several daycares partner with local businesses for visits or special events. When touring, ask specifically about daily outdoor play schedules, if they follow a nature curriculum (like *Growing Up WILD*), and how they integrate the local community into their programming.