The Best Daycare Centers in Fredericktown, MO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fredericktown. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fredericktown
Little Lambs Learning Center
Independent
Little Lambs Learning Center is Fredericktown's premier locally-owned childcare facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center features a play-based learning curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development, early literacy, and kindergarten readiness. Their experienced staff maintains low teacher-to-child ratios with all lead teachers holding early childhood education credentials. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments, age-appropriate outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, strong communication, and the genuine care shown by long-term staff members who create stable relationships with children and families.
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First Baptist Church Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of Farmington
Located in nearby Farmington (approximately 15 miles from Fredericktown), this faith-based center provides high-quality early childhood education with a Christian foundation. The curriculum balances academic preparation with character development, featuring structured learning activities, music enrichment, and hands-on STEAM experiences. The center maintains state-licensed standards with certified early childhood educators and comprehensive safety protocols including secure entry systems and regular safety drills. The facility offers bright, modern classrooms, dedicated nap areas, and developmentally appropriate playgrounds. The center is known for its strong parent-teacher partnerships and detailed progress reporting.
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Kiddie Academy of Farmington
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
As part of the nationally recognized Kiddie Academy chain, this Farmington location (approximately 15 miles from Fredericktown) offers the proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, health and fitness, and technology readiness. The center features purpose-built classrooms with learning centers for literacy, math, science, and creative arts, along with secure outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. All teachers receive ongoing professional development and the center maintains enhanced safety protocols including electronic check-in systems and comprehensive background checks. Parents particularly appreciate the real-time communication through the Academy Link app and the center's focus on preparing children for elementary school success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fredericktown, MO
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Fredericktown, MO, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Fredericktown, Missouri, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Section for Child Care Regulation. This includes family childcare homes, group homes, and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the official "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the Missouri DESE website. You can search by provider name, city (Fredericktown), or zip code to see their current license type, any history of non-compliance, and their latest inspection report. 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 Fredericktown, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Fredericktown and surrounding Madison County, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than in major Missouri metros but can vary. For an infant, you can expect an average of $120-$160 per week at a licensed center, while family childcare homes may range from $90-$130 per week. For toddlers, costs are slightly lower. Financial assistance is available through the Missouri Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by the Family Support Division. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). Additionally, local organizations like the Madison County Health Department or community action agencies can sometimes provide information on sliding-scale options or temporary aid.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Fredericktown, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Fredericktown, waitlists for infant care at popular centers or highly-regarded in-home providers can be significant. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long, especially for infants. We strongly recommend starting your search during pregnancy, ideally by the second trimester. For toddler or preschool spots, a 3-6 month lead time is advisable. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on multiple lists, and follow up periodically. Exploring options in nearby towns like Farmington or Pilot Knob may also be necessary if local availability is extremely tight.
Are there any unique childcare options in Fredericktown, such as faith-based preschools, part-time programs, or care for non-traditional hours?
Fredericktown offers a mix of traditional and specific options. Several local churches operate faith-based preschool programs (often part-day, 2-3 days a week) that are popular for ages 3-5. For part-time or drop-in care, options are very limited; most licensed providers require set, full-time schedules. Care for non-traditional hours (evenings, weekends, overnight) is exceptionally rare in Fredericktown. Your best bet for shift work may be to network with other parents for potential nanny-shares or seek an approved in-home provider willing to accommodate a flexible contract. The Fredericktown R-I School District also offers a Parents as Teachers program for early childhood support.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare in Fredericktown, given the local community and setting?
When touring a daycare in Fredericktown, go beyond the basics. First, observe cleanliness and safety, noting how they manage the transition between indoor play and outdoor time, considering Missouri's variable weather. Ask about their policy for local field trips (e.g., to the Fredericktown City Park or the Madison County Library). Inquire about staff longevity—low turnover is a good sign of a stable environment in a small town. Check if their meal plans accommodate common local dietary preferences. Finally, ask about their communication style; many local providers use apps, but some may still rely on paper notes or Facebook groups, so ensure their method works for you. Trust your gut feeling about the caregiver's warmth and engagement with the children.