The Best Daycare Centers in Six Lakes, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Six Lakes. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Six Lakes
Edmore Elementary Preschool & Childcare
Montcalm Area ISD
Edmore Elementary Preschool & Childcare operates through the Montcalm Area ISD and serves the Six Lakes community with a comprehensive early childhood program. The center features a play-based learning curriculum aligned with Michigan Early Childhood Standards, focusing on social-emotional development, literacy, and kindergarten readiness. Certified early childhood educators maintain low student-teacher ratios, and the facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritional meal programs. The center stands out for its integration with the local school system, providing smooth transitions to elementary education and strong parent-teacher communication through regular progress reports and family engagement events.
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Kiddie Kampus Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kampus Learning Center in Stanton serves the Six Lakes area with a research-based curriculum that combines academic preparation and developmental play. The center employs qualified early childhood professionals who implement Creative Curriculum with supplemental literacy and STEM activities. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness protocols. The facility offers separate learning environments for each age group, outdoor play spaces, and enrichment programs including music and movement. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, experienced staff, and strong focus on individual child development tracking through regular assessments and parent conferences.
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Greenville Community Church Early Childhood Center
Greenville Community Church
Greenville Community Church Early Childhood Center provides high-quality childcare services to families in Six Lakes and surrounding communities with a Christian-based educational approach. The center features a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic readiness with character development, including phonics-based literacy, hands-on math concepts, and social skills development. State-licensed teachers with early childhood credentials maintain optimal teacher-child ratios in modern, secure classrooms equipped with developmentally appropriate learning centers. The facility includes secure outdoor playgrounds, gymnasium space for active play, and nutritious meal programs. The center is distinguished by its strong community involvement, family support resources, and commitment to providing a nurturing environment that supports each child's spiritual, emotional, and academic growth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Six Lakes, MI
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Six Lakes, Michigan?
In Six Lakes, Michigan, parents primarily have access to two types of licensed childcare options: licensed home-based daycare and licensed childcare centers. Given Six Lakes' small, rural community, licensed family home daycares are the most common. These are operated out of a caregiver's residence and typically serve a smaller group of children, offering a home-like environment. Licensed centers, which are less common in the immediate area, may be found in nearby larger towns like Stanton or Lakeview. All licensed providers in Michigan must meet state regulations set by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), covering safety, staff-to-child ratios, training, and health standards. For the most local options, checking the State of Michigan's online childcare search tool or contacting the Montcalm County Great Start Collaborative can provide current listings.
How much does full-time daycare typically cost in Six Lakes, and are there financial assistance programs?
In the Six Lakes area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than in Michigan's urban centers but can vary. For a licensed family home daycare, you might expect to pay between $120 to $180 per week for an infant or toddler. Rates for preschool-aged children are often slightly less. Costs at a center in a neighboring town may be higher. It's crucial to ask what is included (meals, supplies, etc.). For financial assistance, Michigan's Child Development and Care (CDC) program helps eligible low-income working families. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). Additionally, the Montcalm County Great Start to Quality resource center can guide you through assistance options and may have information on local scholarships or sliding scale fees offered by some providers.
Are daycare waitlists common in Six Lakes, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small community like Six Lakes, waitlists for preferred daycare spots, especially for infants, are very common and can be lengthy. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy, ideally by the second trimester. For a summer or fall start, contacting providers at least 6-9 months in advance is wise. When you contact a provider, ask directly about their current availability and typical waitlist timeframe. Be prepared to put down a deposit to secure a spot. Expanding your search to include providers in surrounding communities such as Edmore, Lakeview, or Stanton can increase your options, though this will involve a longer commute.
What should I look for when touring a home daycare in Six Lakes, and what questions are specific to a rural setting?
When touring a home daycare in Six Lakes, beyond standard checks for cleanliness, safety, and a warm atmosphere, ask questions relevant to the rural setting. First, verify their current license is posted and check their history on the LARA website. Inquire about their emergency plans: What is their protocol for severe weather common to Michigan (like tornadoes or winter storms)? How quickly can emergency services reach their location? Ask about outdoor play areas—are they securely fenced, especially given the potential for nearby woods or water? Discuss their policy on animals, as many rural homes have pets or livestock. Finally, ask about their transportation plans for field trips or school pick-ups/drop-offs, as distances can be greater. Trust your instincts about the caregiver's experience and rapport with the children.
What resources are available in Montcalm County to help me evaluate and choose a quality childcare provider near Six Lakes?
The primary resource for evaluating childcare quality in Michigan is **Great Start to Quality**, the state's quality rating and improvement system. You can visit their website to search for providers in the Six Lakes area (49413) and see their star rating (1-5 stars), which assesses factors like staff qualifications, learning environment, and family involvement. For local, personalized help, contact the **Montcalm County Great Start Collaborative** (often housed within the Montcalm Area Intermediate School District). They offer free referrals, can help you understand what to look for, and may host parenting resources. Additionally, you can call **2-1-1** or visit Michigan's 211 website for connections to health and human services, including childcare referrals. Talking to other local parents at community spots like the Six Lakes Township Park or the library is also a valuable way to get personal recommendations.