The Best Daycare Centers in Union Lake, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Union Lake. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Union Lake
The Goddard School of Waterford
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Waterford offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Features state-certified teachers, low student-to-teacher ratios, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure entry systems. Curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, social-emotional development, and physical well-being. Modern facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and enrichment programs. Parents praise the consistent communication, experienced staff, and nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.
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Primrose School of West Bloomfield
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of West Bloomfield provides Balanced Learning® approach combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance. Features exclusive Harmony & Heart® curriculum promoting character development and early literacy skills. All teachers meet state certification requirements and receive ongoing professional development. Secure facility with keypad entry, comprehensive health and safety protocols, and nutritious meals prepared on-site. Offers enrichment programs including music, Spanish, and physical education. Parents consistently highlight the structured yet warm environment, excellent communication through daily reports, and strong academic preparation.
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The Learning Experience - Commerce Township
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Commerce Township offers comprehensive early education with proprietary L.E.A.P.® Curriculum (Learning Experience Academic Program) and enrichment programs including philanthropy, yoga, and music. Features modern security systems including biometric check-in, live streaming for parents, and strict health protocols. Highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and ongoing training. Curriculum emphasizes phonics, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on learning. Parents commend the clean, bright facilities, engaging activities, and the center's focus on both academic and character development through their philanthropy curriculum.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Union Lake, MI
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Union Lake, Michigan?
In Union Lake and the surrounding Oakland County area, full-time daycare costs are typically above the state average due to the region's higher cost of living. For infants (under 18 months), parents can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs generally range from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Home-based daycare (licensed family homes) often offers a more affordable option, typically ranging from $800 to $1,200 monthly. Prices can vary based on the program's curriculum, staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities like meals. It's advisable to budget for potential annual increases and inquire about any registration or supply fees.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Union Lake, and how can I secure a spot?
Yes, due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, many reputable daycare centers in the Union Lake area have waitlists that can be 6 to 12 months long. This is particularly true for centers affiliated with employers in the nearby Commerce Township/Walled Lake business corridors or those with high-quality ratings. To secure a spot, it's recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists during your second trimester if expecting. Be proactive: tour multiple facilities, complete applications (even if there's a fee), and follow up periodically. Consider expanding your search to neighboring communities like Walled Lake, Commerce, or Waterford for more options. Some centers may also offer priority to siblings of current enrollees.
What are the licensing requirements and how can I verify a daycare's compliance in Michigan?
All childcare providers caring for more than one unrelated child must be licensed by the State of Michigan's Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Key requirements include background checks for all staff, health and safety training (including CPR/First Aid), annual inspections, and adherence to strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the official **LARA Child Care Licensing Search** tool online. This public database shows the license status, capacity, any substantiated complaints, and licensing violation reports. Always ask to see a current license during a tour and confirm there are no serious "Rule 5" violations, which pertain to health and safety.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available in Union Lake?
Union Lake offers a mix of childcare options to fit different family needs. The most common types are: 1. **Licensed Childcare Centers:** Often located in commercial buildings or churches, offering structured programs for various age groups. Examples include chains and local centers around Union Lake Road. 2. **Licensed Family Home Daycares:** Operated in a provider's residence, typically offering a smaller, home-like setting for a mixed-age group (often 6-12 children). 3. **Preschool Programs:** Many centers and local churches offer part-day preschool for children ages 3-5, focusing on school readiness. 4. **School-Age Programs:** Offered by local districts (like Walled Lake Consolidated Schools) or the YMCA for before/after-school care and summer camps. Given Union Lake's suburban nature, there are fewer large corporate centers compared to nearby cities, with a stronger presence of local, owner-operated programs.
Are there any local resources or organizations in Oakland County that help parents find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, a key local resource is **Great Start to Quality Oakland**, which is part of Michigan's statewide quality rating and improvement system. This free resource provides a searchable database of all licensed providers in the area, including their quality rating (on a 1-5 scale), inspection reports, and program details. They also offer referral specialists who can help match your family's needs with available options. Additionally, the **Oakland County Health Division** provides information on health and safety requirements. For financial assistance, eligible families can apply for the **Child Development and Care (CDC) program** (state childcare subsidy) through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). Local parenting groups on social media for the Walled Lake/Union Lake area are also valuable for personal recommendations.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Union Lake: