The Best Daycare Centers in Union, MO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Union. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Union
Little Explorers Learning Center
Independent
Little Explorers Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility known for its comprehensive early childhood education program. The center employs state-certified teachers and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios to ensure individualized attention. Their curriculum focuses on developmental milestones through play-based learning, structured academic preparation, and social-emotional development. The facility features secure, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and modern learning materials. They emphasize parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, with strong emphasis on safety protocols including secure entry systems and thorough background checks for all staff.
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The Goddard School of Union
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Union offers a premier early childhood education experience with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic learning with creative play. The facility features purpose-built classrooms, multiple playgrounds, and enrichment programs including yoga, music, and Spanish. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and participate in ongoing professional development. The school maintains rigorous safety standards including keypad entry, comprehensive security cameras, and strict health protocols. Their STEAM-based curriculum prepares children for kindergarten while fostering creativity and critical thinking skills.
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Washington KinderCare
KinderCare Learning Companies
Located approximately 15 minutes from Union in Washington, MO, this KinderCare center serves families throughout Franklin County with a nationally-recognized curriculum. The center features age-appropriate learning environments with dedicated spaces for different developmental stages. Their approach includes phonics-based reading readiness, math concepts, and social skills development. The facility includes secure outdoor play areas, modern classrooms with learning centers, and comprehensive safety systems. Staff members receive extensive training in early childhood development and emergency procedures. The center offers flexible scheduling and nutritious meal programs, making it a popular choice for commuting families between Union and Washington.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Union, MO
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Union, MO?
In Union, MO, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility and the age of your child. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $150 to $225 per week for infant care, and slightly less, around $135 to $200 per week, for toddler care. In-home licensed family childcare providers often offer more competitive rates, typically ranging from $120 to $175 per week. These costs are generally lower than in larger metropolitan areas like St. Louis but have been rising. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and wipes, as this can affect the overall value. Many providers in Union also require a one-time registration fee.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Union?
All licensed childcare facilities in Union, Missouri, are regulated by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Office of Childhood. You can verify a provider's license and view their compliance history by using the online "Child Care Search" tool on the DESE website. This public database allows you to search by provider name, city (Union), or zip code. It will show you the license status, capacity, ages served, and any non-compliances found during state inspections. We highly recommend reviewing this information and even contacting the local DESE regional office for the St. Louis area if you have specific questions about a provider's record before enrolling your child.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Union, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, many daycare centers and highly-rated in-home providers in Union do maintain waitlists. It is very common for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months for infant rooms. We strongly advise parents to begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool-age openings, a lead time of 3 to 6 months is more typical but still recommended. When contacting providers, be sure to ask about their specific waitlist process, any associated fees to hold a spot, and how often you should check in to maintain your position on the list.
What types of childcare assistance or subsidy programs are available for families in Union, MO?
Eligible families in Union may qualify for financial assistance through the Missouri 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 childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care. You can apply online through the DSS website or at your local Franklin County Family Support Division office. Additionally, some local daycare providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly. The United Way of Greater St. Louis (which serves the region) can also be a resource for connecting families with potential assistance options.
What are some key differences between a licensed daycare center and a licensed family home daycare in Union?
Choosing between a center and a family home daycare in Union involves considering environment, structure, and flexibility. **Daycare Centers** (like those on West Main Street or near Highway 50) are typically larger facilities with multiple classrooms, structured curricula, and several staff members. They often have stricter hours (e.g., 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM) but may offer more resources and enrichment programs. **Licensed Family Home Daycares** are operated out of a provider's residence, offering a smaller, home-like setting with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. They often have more flexible hours and may provide a more personalized care routine. Both are licensed and inspected by the state of Missouri, but their philosophies and daily operations differ. Visiting both types is the best way to determine which environment best suits your child's temperament and your family's needs.