The Best Daycare Centers in Warrensburg, MO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Warrensburg. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Warrensburg
The Learning Tree Child Development Center
The Learning Tree CDC
The Learning Tree Child Development Center is a highly-regarded local facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. They utilize a structured curriculum that focuses on developmental milestones while incorporating play-based learning. The center features qualified early childhood educators with low student-to-teacher ratios, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their program includes literacy development, STEM activities, creative arts, and outdoor play in their fenced playground. They provide nutritious meals and snacks and maintain strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Kiddie Academy of Warrensburg
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Warrensburg is part of a nationally recognized educational childcare chain with a strong local presence. Their Life Essentials® curriculum focuses on character development, academic readiness, and social-emotional learning. The facility features modern classrooms, secure access systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their degreed teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities including technology integration, music, and physical development. The center offers flexible scheduling options and maintains high standards for staff qualifications and ongoing professional development.
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Whiteman Air Force Base Child Development Center
Department of Defense
Located approximately 10 miles from Warrensburg, the Whiteman AFB Child Development Center serves military families and is available to community members when space permits. This DoD-certified facility maintains exceptionally high standards for safety, curriculum, and staff qualifications. They implement a research-based curriculum focused on whole-child development with emphasis on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, nutritious meal programs, and extensive outdoor learning environments. Their highly trained staff includes Child Development Associates with ongoing professional development requirements.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Warrensburg, MO
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Warrensburg, MO?
In Warrensburg, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (6 weeks to 18 months), you can expect to pay between $150 and $225 per week at licensed daycare centers. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), weekly rates typically range from $130 to $200. In-home licensed family childcare providers often charge slightly less, averaging $120-$180 per week for infants. These costs are generally lower than in larger Missouri metro areas like Kansas City or Columbia. Many facilities offer discounts for multiple children. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and curriculum materials.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Warrensburg?
All licensed childcare providers in Warrensburg are regulated by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Section for Child Care. You can verify a provider's license and view their compliance history online through the Missouri Child Care Provider Search tool. This public database shows the facility's license status, capacity, ages served, and any serious licensing violations or complaints from the past three years. You can also contact the local resource and referral agency, The Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) of West Central Missouri, which serves Johnson County, for assistance. Always visit a potential daycare and ask to see their current license, which should be posted.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Warrensburg, especially for infants?
Yes, waitlists are common, particularly for infant care (6 weeks to 12 months), which has stricter staff-to-child ratios. In Warrensburg, due to the presence of the University of Central Missouri (UCM) and Whiteman Air Force Base, demand for childcare often exceeds supply, leading to waitlists that can range from a few weeks to several months. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Some centers affiliated with UCM or the military community may have priority systems. Be sure to ask about the estimated wait time, any fees to hold a spot, and how often you should check in.
What childcare options are available for parents with non-traditional or shift work schedules in Warrensburg?
Finding childcare for evenings, overnight, or weekends can be challenging in Warrensburg. Your best options are typically licensed family childcare homes, as they may offer more flexible hours than larger centers. Some providers, especially those familiar with the needs of military families from Whiteman AFB or healthcare workers, may accommodate shift work. It's crucial to inquire directly about availability for specific hours. Another resource is to seek referrals through local Facebook community groups or the Whiteman Air Force Base Family Readiness Center for providers who specialize in flexible care. There are very few 24-hour facilities, so planning and securing arrangements well in advance is essential.
Are there any state or local financial assistance programs to help with daycare costs in Warrensburg, MO?
Yes, eligible families in Warrensburg can apply for the Missouri Child Care Subsidy Program, which helps low-income working families, those in job training, or attending school (including at UCM) pay for licensed childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. Applications are processed through the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS). Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. The Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) of West Central Missouri can provide guidance on these programs and the application process. Military families stationed at Whiteman AFB should also inquire about fee assistance programs through Military Child Care (MCC).
Childcare Insights for Warrensburg
Finding the right part-time daycare in Warrensburg, Missouri, can feel like a significant step for any family. Whether you’re a student at the University of Central Missouri balancing classes, a professional with a flexible work schedule, or a parent simply seeking socialization and structured play for your little one a few days a week, knowing your local options is key. The good news is that Warrensburg offers a variety of part-time childcare solutions designed to meet the unique rhythms of family life in our community.
When beginning your search for part-time care, it’s helpful to understand the common structures available locally. Many licensed daycare centers and in-home providers in Warrensburg offer part-time slots, which might be defined as specific days of the week (like Monday-Wednesday-Friday) or as half-day programs. Some facilities are particularly adept at serving university families, with schedules that align with academic semesters or class times. A great first step is to contact the Johnson County Child Care Resource & Referral service; they maintain updated lists of licensed providers and can help match your specific part-time needs with current openings in the area.
Considering Warrensburg’s layout, think about your daily commute. A provider near the university might be perfect if you’re on campus, while a daycare closer to the historic downtown square or along the Highway 50 corridor might better suit your route. Don’t underestimate the value of a short, convenient drive, especially on those busy mornings. As you visit potential places, ask detailed questions about their flexibility. How do they handle weeks where you might need an extra day? What is their policy for holidays or inclement weather, especially given our Missouri seasons? It’s also wise to inquire about the mix of children in the classroom; a consistent cohort, even on part-time days, helps your child build secure friendships.
Beyond logistics, the heart of your decision will be the feeling you get. Pay close attention to the environment during a tour. Are the caregivers engaged and interacting warmly with the children? Is the space clean, safe, and filled with stimulating activities? Trust your instincts as a parent. Many Warrensburg providers encourage you to bring your child for a short visit to see how they adjust. This can be especially reassuring when transitioning to a part-time schedule. Remember to connect with other local parents, perhaps through community Facebook groups or at the Warrensburg City Park; personal recommendations are often the most valuable resource.
Securing part-time daycare is about finding a partnership that supports both your child’s growth and your family’s routine. In Warrensburg, with its strong sense of community, you’re not just looking for a service, but for a caring extension of your own home. Taking the time to research, visit, and ask questions will lead you to a setting where your child can thrive on their scheduled days, giving you peace of mind and them a wonderful opportunity to learn and play right here in our hometown.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Warrensburg: