The Best Daycare Centers in Preston, MO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Preston. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Preston
The Goddard School of Cameron
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Cameron provides a premium early childhood education program serving families throughout the region, including Preston. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on play-based learning across seven learning domains. The school features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and social-emotional development in modern, purpose-built classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers and outdoor playgrounds.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Cameron
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Cameron offers comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum tailored to each age group. Their programs include phonics-based reading readiness, early math concepts, and hands-on science activities. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs educators with CPR and First Aid certification. Facilities include secure entry systems, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and age-appropriate outdoor play spaces. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their food program and offer flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Little Sprouts Academy
Independent
Little Sprouts Academy is a locally-owned childcare center known for its personalized approach and family-friendly environment. Their curriculum balances structured learning with creative play, focusing on early literacy, social skills development, and kindergarten readiness. The center features experienced teaching staff with ongoing professional development, secure facility with monitored access, and comprehensive health and safety protocols. They offer small class sizes, regular parent communication through digital portfolios, and developmentally appropriate learning materials in bright, engaging classrooms designed to stimulate young minds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Preston, MO
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Preston, Missouri, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Preston, 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 minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff background checks. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the official "Child Care Search" tool on the Missouri DESE website. You can search by provider name, city (Preston), or zip code to view their current license type, any history of non-compliance, and their latest inspection report. It's highly recommended to check this before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Preston, MO?
The cost of daycare in Preston, MO, is generally lower than in major metropolitan areas of Missouri but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay an average of $120 to $160 per week for full-time infant care. For a licensed family childcare home, rates might range from $100 to $140 per week. Toddler care is often slightly less expensive. These are estimates, and prices can differ based on the program's amenities, meal provisions, and curriculum. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., diapers, wipes, meals) and if there are any registration or supply fees.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Preston?
Yes, eligible families in Preston can apply for financial assistance through Missouri's Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS). This program helps low-income working families, those in job training, or parents pursuing education pay for licensed or license-exempt childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply online through the Missouri DSS website or contact your local Family Support Division office. Additionally, some local providers in the Preston area may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Preston, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Preston, waitlists for infant and toddler spots at preferred centers or highly-regarded family homes can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months. It's advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. To improve your chances, contact multiple providers, get on their lists, and follow up periodically to express continued interest. Be prepared with your needed start date. Exploring both center-based and home-based options will increase your chances of finding an opening.
What are some key questions to ask when touring a daycare facility in Preston, specifically related to safety and local routines?
When touring a daycare in Preston, beyond general questions, ask locally-relevant questions. For safety, inquire about their severe weather plan (especially for tornadoes common in Missouri), their outdoor play area security, and their policy for authorized pick-ups in a small community where many people might know each other. Ask about their daily schedule and how they incorporate local experiences, like visits to Preston City Park or activities reflecting rural life. Also, ask about their policy for farm or animal exposure if relevant, and how they handle communication with parents, considering potential spotty cell service in some rural parts of the area. Finally, verify their Missouri license is current and ask to see their latest DESE inspection report.