The Best Daycare Centers in Savannah, MO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Savannah. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Savannah
KinderCare Learning Center - St. Joseph
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center in St. Joseph is a highly-regarded childcare facility serving the Savannah area with a research-based Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends play-based and academic approaches. The center features age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and maintain low child-to-staff ratios for personalized attention. The program emphasizes literacy, math, and social-emotional development, with daily updates for parents via a dedicated app. Standout features include nutritious meal programs, inclusive environments, and a strong track record of preparing children for kindergarten.
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Primrose School of St. Joseph
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of St. Joseph offers a premier early education experience for families in Savannah, featuring the exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum that integrates academics, character development, and play. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities with secure classrooms, interactive technology, and expansive outdoor learning spaces. Highly qualified teachers with CPR and first aid certifications provide individualized learning plans and regular progress reports. The program focuses on fostering curiosity, resilience, and teamwork, with highlights including a structured literacy program, hands-on science activities, and strong parent partnerships through family events and communications.
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Kiddie Academy of St. Joseph
Kiddie Academy International
Kiddie Academy of St. Joseph provides high-quality childcare accessible to Savannah residents, utilizing the Life Essentials® curriculum that promotes cognitive, social, and physical development through structured play and real-world learning. The center features modern, clean facilities with secure access, age-specific learning zones, and outdoor playgrounds. Staff members are trained in early childhood education and safety protocols, maintaining excellent teacher-to-child ratios. The academy stands out for its emphasis on health and wellness, including balanced meals, daily physical activities, and a communication system that keeps parents informed with photos and updates. Its community-oriented approach and focus on school readiness make it a top choice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Savannah, MO
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Savannah, MO, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Savannah, 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 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 (Savannah), 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 to ensure they are considering a legally operating and regulated provider.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Savannah, MO?
The cost of childcare in Savannah, MO, is generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from $130 to $180 per week. For toddlers, the cost might be slightly lower, around $120 to $160 per week. Licensed family childcare homes often offer more competitive rates, potentially between $100 and $140 per week. These are estimates, and prices can differ based on a facility's amenities, curriculum, and meal provisions. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., diapers, wipes, meals). For financial assistance, Missouri offers the Child Care Subsidy Program for eligible families, which can be applied for through the Missouri Department of Social Services.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Savannah, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a city like Savannah compared to urban centers, quality daycare spots, especially for infants, can be limited and may have waitlists. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move start their search during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before they need care. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current capacity and typical waitlist timeframe. Some popular centers in the Savannah area may have waitlists of several months. Being proactive, getting on multiple lists (even if a deposit is required), and following up periodically can significantly improve your chances of securing a spot when you need it.
What are some local resources in Andrew County for finding and evaluating childcare options near Savannah?
Parents in Savannah have several valuable local resources. The primary resource is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for Northwest Missouri**, which is often operated through a partnership with the University of Missouri Extension or a local community action agency. They provide free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in Andrew County. You can also contact the **Andrew County Health Department** for information on local health and safety regulations. Additionally, local Facebook community groups (e.g., "Savannah, MO Community" or parenting groups) can be excellent for getting personal recommendations and experiences from other parents in the area, though you should always verify licensing independently.
What questions should I specifically ask a potential daycare provider during a tour in Savannah, given the local context?
Beyond general questions, tailor your tour to local considerations. Ask: "What is your plan for severe weather, given our region's tornado risk?" and "How do you handle transportation or field trips on rural roads?" Inquire about their outdoor play area and sun safety, as Missouri summers can be hot. Specifically for Savannah, ask about their policy for school closure days (e.g., snow days) for programs that serve school-age children, as this affects working parents. Verify their Missouri license is current and ask if they participate in Missouri's voluntary **Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS)**, called "Missouri Accreditation," which indicates a higher standard of care. Finally, ask for references from current local families you can contact.