The Best Daycare Centers in Washington, MO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Washington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Washington
Washington Early Learning Center
Washington School District
Washington Early Learning Center is a highly-regarded facility operated by the Washington School District, offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center features a developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math readiness, and social-emotional learning. Certified early childhood educators maintain low teacher-to-child ratios, and the facility includes secure indoor learning environments and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. The center is known for its strong parent communication system, regular developmental assessments, and nutritious meal program. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Union
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Union is a nationally recognized childcare provider serving the Washington area with research-based curriculum and high-quality standards. The center employs degreed early childhood educators who implement the World at Their Fingertips curriculum, focusing on language, cognitive, physical, and social development. Facilities include dedicated infant rooms, STEM learning centers, art studios, and secure outdoor playgrounds. The center maintains enhanced safety protocols including keypad entry systems, comprehensive health screenings, and emergency preparedness plans. Parent involvement is encouraged through regular conferences, digital daily reports, and family events.
Daycare Services:
St. Clair Early Childhood Center
St. Clair R-XIII School District
St. Clair Early Childhood Center provides high-quality early education services to families in the Washington region with a focus on school readiness and developmental milestones. The center features certified early childhood special education teachers and implements a play-based learning approach integrated with Missouri Early Learning Standards. The facility includes purpose-built classrooms, sensory integration spaces, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. The center is particularly noted for its inclusive programming, serving children with diverse learning needs alongside typically developing peers. Safety features include monitored access control, comprehensive staff training, and health and wellness protocols.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Washington, MO
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Washington, MO, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Washington, MO, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), specifically the 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, you can use the official "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the Missouri DESE website. You can search by provider name, city (Washington), or zip code to view their current license status, any recent compliance reports, and capacity. It's highly recommended to check this before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Washington, MO?
The cost of daycare in Washington, MO, is generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas like St. Louis, but prices vary based on the type of care and the child's age. For a licensed childcare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from $175 to $225 per week. Toddler care (ages 1-3) often ranges from $160 to $210 per week. Licensed family childcare homes may be slightly less expensive. Factors affecting cost include the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff qualifications. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly fee (e.g., meals, diapers, formula).
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Washington, MO, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Waitlists are common for infant and toddler spots at highly-regarded daycare centers and some in-home providers in Washington, MO, due to limited capacity and high demand. For infant care, it is strongly advised to start your search and get on waitlists during your second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. For toddler or preschool spots, 3-6 months of lead time is recommended. When contacting providers, always ask about their current waitlist policy, any fees to hold a spot, and how often they update families on their position.
What local resources or programs in Washington, MO, can help me pay for childcare if I need financial assistance?
Several state and local resources can help eligible families in Washington, MO, with childcare costs. The primary program is Missouri's Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). You can apply online through the Missouri DSS website or contact the Franklin County Family Support Division office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with local employers, as some in the Washington area may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or referral services.
What are some key questions to ask when touring a daycare facility in Washington, MO, specific to local considerations?
Beyond general questions, when touring in Washington, MO, ask about: 1) **Emergency Preparedness:** How do they handle severe weather common to Missouri, like tornadoes? Where are the storm shelters? 2) **Outdoor Play:** Given the local climate, what is their policy for outdoor time in hot summers and cold winters? Are play areas shaded and secure? 3) **Staff Longevity:** What is the average tenure of caregivers? Low turnover indicates a stable environment. 4) **Local Field Trips:** For preschool-age children, do they take advantage of local Washington attractions like the riverfront parks or the historical museum? 5) **Communication:** How do they communicate with parents about daily activities and emergencies? Many local centers use apps like Brightwheel or Tadpoles.