The Best Daycare Centers in Montgomery, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Montgomery. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Montgomery
Montgomery Child Care & Preschool
Independent
Montgomery Child Care & Preschool is a highly-regarded local facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. They feature a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios with all lead teachers holding early childhood education credentials. Their facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for different age groups. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, experienced staff, and strong communication about child development progress.
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Kalamazoo KinderCare
KinderCare Education
This nationally accredited KinderCare center serves families throughout the Montgomery area with comprehensive early education programs. They implement a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social skills development. The facility features secure keypad entry, dedicated age-specific classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers receive ongoing professional development and many hold degrees in early childhood education. The center is noted for its strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, plus flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Allegan County Early Childhood Center
Allegan County ISD
Operated by the Allegan County Intermediate School District, this center provides high-quality early childhood education serving Montgomery and surrounding communities. They offer both general education and specialized programs with certified early childhood teachers and therapists on staff. The curriculum emphasizes school readiness through structured play, literacy development, and social skills building. The facility includes modern classrooms, sensory integration spaces, and accessible playgrounds. Parents appreciate the comprehensive developmental assessments, individualized learning plans, and strong transition support to kindergarten programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Montgomery, MI
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Montgomery, Michigan, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Montgomery, Michigan, all childcare centers and group homes caring for more than six children must be licensed by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Family homes caring for 1-6 unrelated children can be either licensed or registered. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a facility's license, you can use the **LARA Child Care Search** tool online. Simply enter the provider's name or zip code (48458 for Montgomery) to view their licensing status, any past violations, and inspection reports. It's a crucial first step for any parent in the area.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Montgomery, MI?
In Montgomery and the surrounding rural areas of Branch County, childcare costs are generally lower than in Michigan's major urban centers. For full-time care, you can expect to pay an average of **$150 to $225 per week** for an infant or toddler at a licensed center. In-home family daycare may range from **$120 to $180 per week**. These rates are estimates, and actual costs vary based on the provider's amenities, hours, and included services like meals. It's important to note that while costs are relatively moderate, availability can be limited, so budgeting early and inquiring about potential financial assistance through programs like the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Child Development and Care (CDC) subsidy is advisable.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Montgomery, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to Montgomery's smaller, rural community setting, the number of licensed daycare providers is limited. It is very common for reputable centers and popular in-home providers to have waitlists, especially for infant care. **Parents are strongly advised to begin their search at least 6 to 9 months before their needed start date**, and even earlier if possible. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and if they offer a priority list for siblings or local residents. Exploring options in nearby towns like Coldwater or Quincy may also be necessary to find an opening in a timely manner.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available in Montgomery, MI?
Montgomery primarily offers two types of licensed childcare: **Family Home Daycares** and **Childcare Centers**. Family homes are often run by a single provider in a residential setting, offering a smaller, home-like environment for mixed-age groups. Centers are more structured programs, often located in dedicated buildings or churches. Given the community's size, you'll find more family home options than large centers. Additionally, some providers may offer **preschool components** for 3-5 year-olds, but dedicated preschool-only programs are less common. For school-age children, the local Montgomery Elementary School or community organizations may offer before/after-school care, but transportation from the school to a daycare provider would be a key consideration.
What local resources or referrals can help me find and evaluate childcare in Montgomery?
The best centralized resource for parents in Montgomery is the **Branch County Great Start Collaborative**, which is part of the statewide Great Start network. They provide free referrals to licensed providers in Branch County, including Montgomery. You can contact them directly or visit their website. Additionally, you can contact the **Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency** for public health information related to childcare. For on-the-ground insights, local Facebook community groups (e.g., "Montgomery, MI Community") are often used by parents to share personal experiences and recommendations for local in-home providers that may not be as widely advertised. Always cross-reference any personal recommendation with the official LARA license verification.