The Best Daycare Centers in Labadie, MO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Labadie. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Labadie
St. Francis Borgia Early Childhood Center
St. Francis Borgia Parish
St. Francis Borgia Early Childhood Center offers a faith-based educational program that focuses on whole-child development. Their curriculum combines structured learning with play-based activities, emphasizing social-emotional development, early literacy, and cognitive skills. The center features low student-to-teacher ratios, with all lead teachers holding degrees in early childhood education or related fields. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas. The center is known for its strong parent communication system, regular developmental assessments, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure entry systems and certified staff in pediatric CPR/first aid.
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Washington Early Childhood Center
Washington School District
Washington Early Childhood Center operates as part of the Washington School District, providing high-quality early education with a focus on school readiness. The center employs a research-based curriculum that emphasizes language development, early math concepts, and social skills. All teachers are state-certified in early childhood education, and the center maintains small class sizes with assistant teachers in every classroom. The facility includes modern learning spaces, a large motor skills development area, and specialized rooms for speech and occupational therapy. The center is particularly noted for its inclusive programming, serving both typically developing children and those with special needs through integrated classrooms and individualized support.
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Little Saints Early Childhood Center
Little Saints LLC
Little Saints Early Childhood Center provides a comprehensive educational program with a focus on hands-on learning and individualized attention. Their curriculum incorporates elements of Montessori and Reggio Emilia approaches, featuring learning centers that encourage exploration and discovery. The center boasts highly qualified staff with ongoing professional development requirements and specialized training in early childhood development. Facilities include secure, age-specific playgrounds, bright and engaging classrooms with natural lighting, and a commercial kitchen providing nutritious meals and snacks. The center is recognized for its strong community partnerships, regular family engagement events, and comprehensive security measures including keypad entry and surveillance systems.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Labadie, MO
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Labadie, MO?
In Labadie and the surrounding Franklin County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of provider. For licensed in-home daycare providers, you might expect to pay between $120 to $160 per week for an infant or toddler. Larger daycare centers in nearby towns like Washington or Union may charge $150 to $220 per week. It's important to note that Labadie is a smaller community, so there are fewer providers directly in town, which can sometimes keep prices competitive but also means spots fill quickly. Always ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Labadie is properly licensed and what are Missouri's key regulations for childcare?
All licensed childcare providers in Missouri are regulated by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). You can verify a provider's license and view their compliance history by using the online "Child Care Search" tool on the DESE website. Key regulations for Missouri include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:8 for 2-year-olds), background checks for all employees, and annual health and safety inspections. For Labadie specifically, many providers are licensed family childcare homes, which care for up to 10 children in a residential setting. Always visit the facility and ask to see their current license.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools in Labadie that offer part-time or drop-in care options?
Due to Labadie's small size, dedicated daycare centers within city limits are limited. Most childcare options are licensed family homes. These in-home providers often have more flexibility than large centers and may offer part-time schedules (e.g., 2-3 days a week) to accommodate parents with non-traditional or shift work. Drop-in care is less common and typically needs to be arranged in advance due to strict state ratios. For more consistent part-time or preschool programs, many Labadie parents look to neighboring communities like Washington, which has several centers with structured part-time preschool programs for ages 3-5.
What is the average waitlist time for infant care in the Labadie area, and how far in advance should I start looking?
For the coveted infant spots (children under 18 months), waitlists in the Labadie area can be significant. It is not uncommon for popular licensed family homes or centers in the region to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. Given the limited number of providers serving the immediate community, we strongly recommend starting your search during your second trimester of pregnancy. Contact providers to inquire about their current waitlist policies, whether they charge a fee to hold a spot, and how often they update their list. Being flexible on your start date can improve your chances.
What resources are available in Franklin County to help Labadie families afford quality childcare?
The primary resource for financial assistance is Missouri's Child Care Subsidy program, administered by the Family Support Division (FSD). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or attending school). You can apply online through the MyDSS portal. Additionally, some local employers may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). For direct referrals and help navigating options, parents can contact the **United Way of Greater St. Louis's 2-1-1 helpline** or the **Franklin County Resource Guide**, which can connect you with local providers and support services tailored to the county.