The Best Daycare Centers in Warsaw, MO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Warsaw. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Warsaw
Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy is Warsaw's premier early childhood education center, offering a comprehensive developmental curriculum for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Their educational approach combines play-based learning with structured academic preparation, featuring STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The center boasts highly qualified teachers with early childhood education certifications and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Facilities include secure indoor classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers and a large, fenced outdoor playground with natural elements. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks through their USDA-approved food program and maintains strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Kiddie Academy of Sedalia
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Sedalia serves families throughout the Warsaw region with their nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and school readiness. Located approximately 30 minutes from Warsaw, this center offers state-of-the-art facilities including technology-enhanced classrooms, dedicated music and movement areas, and secure outdoor play spaces. Their highly trained staff includes teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education and ongoing professional development. The academy emphasizes health and wellness with rigorous cleaning protocols, nutritious meal planning, and physical activity integration. Parent engagement is strong through their proprietary mobile app providing real-time updates, photos, and developmental milestones tracking. Transportation services are available for school-age children in the Warsaw area.
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Lincoln Early Learning Center
Independent
Lincoln Early Learning Center, located approximately 25 minutes from Warsaw, provides high-quality childcare with a focus on individualized learning and community connections. Their curriculum blends Montessori-inspired independent learning with structured group activities, emphasizing literacy development, mathematical thinking, and creative expression. The center features purpose-built classrooms with natural lighting, age-appropriate learning materials, and separate playgrounds for different age groups. Staff members hold early childhood credentials and participate in continuous training on child development and safety protocols. The center maintains excellent health and safety standards with secured access, comprehensive immunization requirements, and strict illness policies. Family involvement is encouraged through regular events, volunteer opportunities, and detailed progress reporting. They offer flexible scheduling to accommodate working families from the Warsaw area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Warsaw, MO
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Warsaw, MO?
In Warsaw, the cost of full-time daycare can vary based on the type of facility and the age of your child. For licensed daycare centers, you can expect to pay approximately $120 to $180 per week for an infant or toddler. In-home licensed family childcare providers may offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from $100 to $150 per week. These costs are generally lower than the state average for Missouri, reflecting the rural nature of Benton County. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Some providers may also offer sibling discounts. Given the limited number of facilities, securing a spot can be competitive, so it's advisable to budget for these costs early in your search.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Warsaw is properly licensed and what should I look for in their inspection history?
All licensed childcare facilities in Warsaw must be 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. When reviewing a provider, pay close attention to their licensing category (Family Home, Group Home, or Center) and any noted violations from recent inspections. In a smaller community like Warsaw, it's also highly recommended to visit the facility in person, ask for references from other local parents, and observe the environment. Look for valid licenses posted visibly, ask about staff-to-child ratios, and inquire about staff training in CPR and First Aid, which are state requirements.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Warsaw?
Yes, eligible families in Warsaw 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 education or training programs, and families involved with the Children's Division pay for licensed or license-exempt childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care. You can apply online through the MyDSS portal or contact the local Family Support Division office in Benton County for assistance. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees based on income, so it's always worth asking directly. Due to potential waiting lists for both subsidies and daycare spots, applying early is crucial.
What is the availability of daycare for non-traditional hours (evenings, weekends, or overnight) in the Warsaw area?
Finding childcare for non-traditional hours in Warsaw can be challenging due to the limited number of providers. Most licensed daycare centers and family homes operate on a standard weekday schedule, typically from around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For evening, weekend, or overnight care, parents often need to seek out licensed family childcare homes that may offer more flexible hours or arrange for private, in-home babysitters. We recommend networking within local community groups, such as the "Warsaw, MO Community" Facebook page, to find recommendations for trusted individuals who provide this type of care. Always ensure any caregiver you hire meets your safety standards, even if they are license-exempt for occasional care.
What are the common waitlist times for enrolling an infant in a daycare center in Warsaw, and how can I improve my chances of securing a spot?
Due to high demand and limited infant care slots (which have stricter staff-to-child ratios), waitlists at popular daycare centers in Warsaw can be significant. It is not uncommon for families to be placed on a waitlist for 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. To improve your chances, contact providers as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy. Get on multiple waitlists, including both centers and licensed family homes. Follow up with providers every 2-3 months to express continued interest. Be flexible with your desired start date if possible. Also, consider joining local parent networks; sometimes spots become available through word-of-mouth before they are officially advertised. Planning ahead is the most critical strategy in this market.