The Best Daycare Centers in Saint Peters, MO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Saint Peters. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Saint Peters
La Petite Academy of Saint Peters
La Petite Academy
La Petite Academy of Saint Peters offers a comprehensive educational curriculum focused on early childhood development. Their research-based approach includes age-appropriate learning activities in literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies. The center features secure facilities with keypad entry systems, dedicated age-specific classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. Teachers maintain state-mandated teacher-to-child ratios and participate in ongoing professional development. The center is known for its strong parent communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences, with particular strength in preparing children for kindergarten transition.
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Chesterfield Day School - St. Peters Campus
Chesterfield Day School
Chesterfield Day School's St. Peters campus provides a balanced educational approach combining academic preparation with social-emotional development. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, creative expression, and character development. Facilities include modern classrooms, dedicated nap rooms, and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators. Special features include Spanish language exposure, music and movement programs, and comprehensive security systems. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment and strong academic foundation.
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The Goddard School of St. Charles/St. Peters
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School serving St. Peters and St. Charles areas offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. The school features state-of-the-art security systems, bright and clean classrooms, and multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups. All teachers are educated in early childhood development and participate in ongoing training. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and social skills. The school is particularly noted for its excellent communication with parents through daily activity reports and regular updates, plus enrichment programs including yoga and foreign language exposure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Saint Peters, MO
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Saint Peters, MO?
In Saint Peters, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $225 to $300 per week, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $200 to $275 per week. These rates are influenced by the type of facility—center-based care is often at the higher end of this range, while licensed in-home family daycare providers may offer more affordable options. It's important to note that Missouri offers a Child Care Subsidy program for qualifying families, and some local centers may offer sibling discounts. Always inquire about what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Saint Peters is properly licensed and has a good compliance record?
All licensed childcare facilities in Saint Peters are regulated by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Office of Childhood. You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history, including any past violations, by using the online "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the DESE website. Simply enter the provider's name or location. We also recommend visiting the facility in person, asking for references from current parents, and checking with the local St. Charles County Public Health Department for any additional health and safety inspections.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Saint Peters, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Waitlists are common for infant rooms and highly-rated preschool programs in Saint Peters, especially at larger centers. It is strongly advised to begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before your needed start date, and even earlier (up to a year) for infant care. Many popular centers near major employers or in newer subdivisions maintain consistent waitlists. When touring, always ask about the current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot, and how often they update the list. Exploring multiple options, including smaller centers and licensed family homes, can increase your chances of finding an opening sooner.
What are some of the key differences between the curriculum at a Saint Peters daycare center versus a state-funded Pre-K program like Missouri's Early Childhood Education (ECE) program?
In Saint Peters, private daycare centers and preschools often use proprietary or well-known curricula (like Montessori, HighScope, or Creative Curriculum) focused on whole-child development, with extended hours to accommodate working parents. Missouri's state-funded Pre-K (often called ECE), available in some public school districts like Francis Howell School District, is typically a part-day (e.g., 3-hour) program with a strong emphasis on kindergarten readiness aligned with state standards. Eligibility for the state Pre-K often has income requirements. The main trade-off is schedule flexibility and full-day care (daycare) versus a potentially more academically structured but shorter program (state Pre-K).
What resources are available in Saint Peters for parents seeking childcare for children with special needs or who require early intervention services?
Saint Peters is served by Missouri's First Steps program, which provides early intervention services for children from birth to age three with developmental delays or disabilities. This can be coordinated with your childcare provider. When searching for daycare, look for centers that advertise inclusive practices. The Francis Howell School District also offers early childhood special education programs for qualifying children ages 3-5. It's crucial to discuss your child's specific needs directly with potential daycare directors to assess their experience, staff training, and ability to create an Individualized Care Plan. The local nonprofit **United Way 2-1-1** can also help connect you with specialized resources and providers in St. Charles County.
Nearby Cities
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