The Best Daycare Centers in Lakeland, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lakeland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lakeland
The Learning Experience - White Lake
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in White Lake provides comprehensive early childhood education just minutes from Lakeland. Their proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills through interactive learning. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and surveillance cameras. All lead teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, multimedia rooms, and dedicated learning centers for different developmental stages. Parents praise the consistent communication through daily reports and the center's focus on both academic and social-emotional development.
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The Goddard School of Waterford
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located just east of Lakeland, The Goddard School of Waterford offers a play-based learning approach grounded in current childhood development research. Their F.L.EX.® program encourages creativity and problem-solving while meeting state early learning standards. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility features bright, spacious classrooms, outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment, and dedicated art and music spaces. Parents consistently highlight the warm, nurturing environment and the school's excellent preparation for kindergarten.
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Kiddie Academy of Highland
Kiddie Academy Domestic Franchising
Kiddie Academy of Highland serves the Lakeland area with their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The program emphasizes STEAM learning, literacy development, and social skills through hands-on activities. The center features secure access control, comprehensive health and safety protocols, and nutritious meal programs. All teaching staff meet or exceed state licensing requirements and participate in ongoing professional development. The modern facility includes technology-enhanced classrooms, outdoor learning environments, and dedicated spaces for gross motor development. Families appreciate the transparent communication and the center's commitment to creating a supportive community atmosphere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lakeland, MI
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Lakeland, Michigan, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In 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. Licensed providers must meet strict standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, training (including CPR and First Aid), and facility inspections. To verify a Lakeland provider's license and view any past violations, you can use the official LARA Child Care Licensing Search tool online. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed options, as this ensures a baseline of safety and oversight regulated by the state.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Lakeland, MI area?
Childcare costs in Lakeland and the surrounding Oakland County area are moderately high, reflecting the regional cost of living. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay an average of $1,200 to $1,600 per month for full-time infant care. Toddler care typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Family home daycares often offer slightly lower rates, averaging $800 to $1,200 monthly. These are estimates, and prices can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff qualifications. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition (e.g., meals, diapers, enrichment programs).
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Lakeland, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many licensed daycare centers and highly-regarded home-based providers in Lakeland, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before you need care. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length and policy. Some may require a deposit to hold a spot. Exploring multiple options, including both centers and licensed family homes, will increase your chances of securing a spot when needed.
What local resources or programs in Lakeland/Oakland County can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
A key local resource is the **Great Start to Quality Oakland County** resource center, which is part of Michigan's statewide quality rating and improvement system. Their specialists can provide free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in the Lakeland zip code (48360/48363). They also offer guidance on what to look for during tours and how to understand quality ratings (1-5 stars). Additionally, the **Oakland County Health Division** provides information on required immunizations and health forms. For financial assistance, you can inquire about the **Michigan Child Development and Care (CDC) subsidy program** through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to see if you qualify for help with costs.
What are some of the key questions I should ask when touring a daycare facility in Lakeland?
Beyond general questions about curriculum and daily schedules, ask Lakeland-specific and safety-focused questions. These should include: "What is your staff turnover rate?" (consistency is key); "What is your policy for outdoor play during Michigan's cold winters and hot summers?"; "How do you handle secure pick-up and drop-off?"; "Can you walk me through your emergency and severe weather plans, including where you would shelter for tornado warnings?"; "Are you a participant in the Great Start to Quality rating system, and what is your current star rating?"; and "What is your sick child policy, and how do you communicate about illnesses like RSV or flu that circulate in the community?" Always request to see the current license and ask for references from current parents.