The Best Daycare Centers in Howell, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Howell. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Howell
The Goddard School of Howell
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Howell offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their play-based curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and includes STEAM learning, sign language for infants, and character development programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios to ensure personalized attention.
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KinderCare at Howell
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Howell provides a nationally-recognized curriculum that balances academic learning with social-emotional development. Their program includes phonics-based reading readiness, math concepts, science exploration, and creative arts. The center features secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and nutritious meal programs. Classrooms are designed with learning centers that encourage exploration and independent learning. Certified teachers create individualized learning experiences and maintain detailed progress reports. The center offers flexible scheduling options and serves children from 6 weeks to 12 years old, with dedicated programs for each developmental stage.
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The Learning Experience - Brighton
The Learning Experience
Located in nearby Brighton and serving the Howell area, The Learning Experience offers their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates technology, philanthropy, and foreign language instruction. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, including CCTV monitoring and secure entry. Their programs include early literacy, mathematics, social studies, and science, with specialized enrichment programs in yoga, music, and manners. The facility includes multiple playgrounds, indoor gyms, and modern classrooms with interactive whiteboards. Teachers are CPR and First Aid certified with extensive early childhood education training. The center is known for its strong parent communication and community involvement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Howell, MI
What are the typical costs for daycare and preschool programs in Howell, MI?
In Howell, daycare costs vary significantly based on the child's age and the type of program. For infants (0-18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,100 to $1,400 per month at a licensed center. Toddler care (18-36 months) typically ranges from $950 to $1,200 monthly. Preschool programs (3-5 years) are generally less expensive, averaging $800 to $1,000 per month. Home-based daycare (licensed family childcare) is often more affordable, ranging from $700 to $950 monthly for full-time care. These rates are competitive with Livingston County averages. Many facilities in Howell offer part-time options at a reduced weekly rate. It's important to ask what is included in tuition—some centers include meals and snacks, while others may charge extra.
How long are waitlists for quality daycare centers in Howell, and how can I secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-rated daycare centers and preschools in Howell can be substantial, especially for infant and toddler rooms. It's not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months for infants. For preschool-age children, waitlists are typically shorter, around 3-6 months. To secure a spot, we recommend contacting centers at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. Many Howell facilities allow you to join a waitlist for a small, non-refundable fee (usually $25-$75). Be proactive: schedule tours, submit applications to multiple centers, and ask about their specific policy for moving from the waitlist to an enrolled spot. Some centers, particularly church-affiliated or cooperative preschools, may also give priority to siblings or members.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Howell, and how can I verify a provider's license?
All childcare centers and family home providers in Howell must be licensed by the State of Michigan's Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Key requirements include: background checks for all staff, specific child-to-staff ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:10 for preschoolers), annual training in CPR/first aid and child development, and regular health and safety inspections of the facility. You can and should verify a provider's license status online through the LARA Child Care Licensing search tool. This public database shows the license type, capacity, any substantiated complaints, and inspection reports. When touring a facility in Howell, don't hesitate to ask to see their current license and their most recent inspection report.
Are there any unique local resources or programs in Howell to help parents find and afford childcare?
Yes, Howell parents have access to several key local resources. First, the **Great Start to Quality Livingston Resource Center** (part of the statewide rating system) offers free, personalized referrals to licensed programs. They can be contacted via the 211 helpline or online. For financial assistance, the **Livingston County Department of Health and Human Services** administers the Child Development and Care (CDC) subsidy program for income-eligible families. Additionally, many Howell-area employers, including Trinity Health and local school districts, may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). The **Howell Area Parks and Recreation Department** also offers seasonal day camps and preschool enrichment programs that can supplement traditional childcare.
What should I look for when touring a daycare facility in Howell, considering our local community and weather?
When touring daycares in Howell, pay close attention to factors influenced by our local context. **Outdoor Play:** Given our four-season climate, ask about their outdoor play policy in winter (e.g., temperature/snow guidelines) and if they have adequate shaded areas for summer. A good facility will have safe, fenced outdoor spaces. **Safety & Accessibility:** Inquire about their severe weather protocols (tornado warnings are not uncommon) and winter closure policies. Check that entryways are secure and that pick-up/drop-off procedures are clear, especially considering potential winter parking challenges. **Community Connection:** Look for evidence of local engagement—do they take field trips to the Howell Nature Center, Howell Carnegie District Library, or local parks? A program that integrates our community resources often provides a richer experience. Finally, observe how staff interact with children; a low staff turnover rate is a strong indicator of a positive work environment, which directly benefits your child.