The Best Daycare Centers in Highland Park, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Highland Park. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Highland Park
Bright Horizons at Detroit Medical Center
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Detroit Medical Center offers a research-based curriculum focused on whole-child development through their World at Their Fingertips approach. The center features highly qualified early childhood educators with bachelor's degrees and specialized training in child development. Facilities include age-appropriate learning environments, secure entry systems, and nutritious meal programs. What makes this center stand out is their strong emphasis on STEM education, language development, and social-emotional learning, combined with their partnership with the Detroit Medical Center providing additional resources and professional development opportunities for staff.
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The Goddard School of West Bloomfield
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of West Bloomfield provides a play-based learning curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The center features state-certified teachers with ongoing professional development, secure keypad entry systems, and modern classroom technology. Notable features include daily Spanish language exposure, yoga and mindfulness programs, and extensive outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. The school maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and comprehensive safety protocols.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Southfield
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center at Southfield offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a balanced curriculum covering literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies. The center employs experienced early childhood educators with CPR and First Aid certification, and maintains small class sizes with optimal teacher-to-child ratios. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for different developmental stages. The center stands out for their inclusive approach, nutritious meal programs, and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences. Their curriculum aligns with state early learning standards and focuses on kindergarten readiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Highland Park, MI
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Highland Park, MI, and are there financial assistance programs available locally?
In Highland Park, the cost of full-time daycare can vary significantly based on the type of provider. Licensed home-based daycares may range from $125 to $200 per week, while center-based preschool programs typically cost between $175 and $300 per week. These rates are generally lower than the state average, reflecting the city's economic profile. Financial assistance is crucial for many families. The primary resource is the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Child Development and Care (CDC) subsidy program, which helps eligible low-income families pay for childcare. Additionally, local organizations like the United Way for Southeastern Michigan and the Highland Park Community Connection can provide guidance and referrals to sliding-scale programs or scholarships. It's highly recommended to apply for the state subsidy early, as processing can take time.
How can I verify that a daycare provider in Highland Park is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All childcare providers caring for more than one unrelated child must be licensed by the State of Michigan. To verify a provider's license and review their history, you must use the official **Michigan Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) Online Child Care Search Tool**. You can search by provider name, location (Highland Park), or license number. This public database shows the license status (active, suspended, expired), the facility's capacity and age ranges, and any serious licensing violations or complaints that resulted in corrective action. For a more personal touch, you can also contact the local resource and referral agency, **Great Start to Quality Southeast**, which can provide detailed reports and quality ratings (on a 1-5 scale) for programs. Always visit a potential daycare and ask to see their current license certificate, which should be posted.
Are there many daycare centers with immediate openings in Highland Park, or should I expect to join a waitlist?
Due to a combination of high demand and a limited number of licensed centers within the city limits, it is common to encounter waitlists, especially for infant and toddler care. Many families in Highland Park also consider providers in surrounding areas like Detroit, Hamtramck, or Ferndale, which may have more options but also their own waitlists. To improve your chances, start your search at least 3-6 months before you need care. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on multiple waitlists (which may require a small fee), and follow up monthly. Exploring licensed family home daycares can sometimes yield quicker openings. Utilizing the "Great Start to Quality" website allows you to filter for providers currently accepting new children.
What unique early childhood programs or resources are available specifically for Highland Park families?
Highland Park is home to several impactful initiatives focused on early childhood. A key program is the **Highland Park School District's Early Childhood Center**, which may offer state-funded Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) preschool for eligible 4-year-olds, focusing on school readiness. The **Highland Park Public Library** hosts regular, free storytimes and early literacy activities crucial for development. Furthermore, the **Brilliant Detroit** model, which has a presence in the city, creates neighborhood hubs offering holistic family support, including parenting workshops, playgroups, and connections to childcare. For health and developmental support, the **Wayne County Health, Human & Veterans Services Department** provides early intervention services. These local resources are invaluable for comprehensive child and family support.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in Highland Park to ensure a safe and nurturing environment?
Beyond general cleanliness and safety, pay close attention to factors specific to an urban setting. **Safety & Security:** Ask about drop-off/pick-up procedures, check that all exterior doors are secure, and inquire about their emergency plans for various scenarios. **Staffing:** Observe caregiver-child interactions; they should be warm and engaged. Ask about staff turnover and verify that all employees have passed background checks as required by LARA. **Program & Environment:** Look for a structured yet flexible daily schedule that includes active play, learning, and rest. Inquire about their curriculum and how they support early literacy and social skills. **Outdoor Space:** Assess their outdoor play area—is it fenced, clean, and with appropriate equipment? If they use a public park, ask about their supervision protocol. Finally, trust your instincts about the overall atmosphere and how the staff communicates with you.