The Best Daycare Centers in Arlington, NE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Arlington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Arlington
Arlington Early Childhood Center
Arlington Public Schools
Arlington Early Childhood Center operates as part of the Arlington Public School District, providing high-quality early childhood education with certified teachers and developmentally appropriate curriculum. The center focuses on kindergarten readiness through structured play-based learning, social-emotional development, and early literacy skills. Features small class sizes, state-certified educators, and a safe learning environment integrated with the local school system. Parents praise the dedicated staff and comprehensive preparation for elementary school.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Omaha
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Omaha serves families in the greater Omaha area including Arlington with their Balanced Learning® approach that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The accredited facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor learning environments. Curriculum includes character development, literacy, math, and science with qualified teachers holding early childhood credentials. Offers healthy meals and extended hours to accommodate working families. Highly rated for educational quality and professional staff.
Daycare Services:
La Petite Academy of Elkhorn
La Petite Academy
La Petite Academy of Elkhorn provides comprehensive childcare services to families in the Arlington area with their Links to Learning® curriculum that prepares children for academic success. Features secure facilities with keypad entry, age-appropriate learning centers, and structured daily schedules. Staff includes experienced early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. Program emphasizes literacy, STEM exploration, and social skills development. Parents appreciate the consistent communication and nurturing environment for children of all ages.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Arlington, NE
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Arlington, Nebraska, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Nebraska, all childcare providers caring for four or more children from different families must be licensed by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). This includes family childcare homes and centers. Licensing ensures providers meet health, safety, and staff training standards. To verify the license of a provider in Arlington, you can use the DHHS "Child Care Search" tool online. This public database shows the provider's license type, capacity, any regulatory history, and their current status (e.g., licensed, probation). It's a crucial first step for parents to ensure they are considering a legally operating and monitored facility.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant or toddler daycare in Arlington, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Arlington and the surrounding Washington County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $130 to $200 per week. Costs can vary based on the type of provider (center vs. in-home), hours, and included amenities like meals. For financial assistance, Nebraska offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through DHHS, which helps eligible low-income families pay for care. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with your employer about Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to use pre-tax dollars for childcare expenses.
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Arlington, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed providers in a smaller community like Arlington, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care spots. It's not unusual for popular centers or highly recommended in-home providers to have waitlists of 3 to 9 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a move start their search as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6 months before care is needed. Contact providers directly to inquire about their current availability and waitlist policies, and consider getting on multiple lists to increase your options.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically within Arlington, NE?
Parents in Arlington generally have three primary licensed options. First, **Licensed Family Child Care Homes**: These are in-home providers, often offering a smaller, home-like setting with mixed-age groups; they are common in residential areas. Second, **Childcare Centers**: While Arlington itself may have a limited number, there are centers in town and in nearby communities like Fremont or Blair that serve Arlington families. Third, **School-Age Programs**: Arlington Public Schools may offer before-and-after-school care for elementary-aged children. Due to the rural setting, unlicensed care from family, friends, or neighbors (legally allowed for up to 3 children) is also a frequent arrangement.
Are there any state or local resources in Nebraska to help me evaluate and choose a quality daycare provider near Arlington?
Yes, Nebraska provides excellent resources. The primary tool is **Step Up to Quality (SUTQ)**, Nebraska's voluntary quality rating and improvement system for licensed providers. You can search for SUTQ-rated programs on the DHHS website; a higher rating (1 to 5 stars) indicates a program that exceeds basic licensing standards. For local, hands-on help, contact your **Nebraska Child Care Referral Network** specialist by calling 1-800-89-CHILD. They can provide a customized list of licensed providers in the Arlington area, discuss your family's needs, and explain quality indicators. Additionally, talking to other parents at local spots like the Arlington Community Center or library can provide valuable word-of-mouth recommendations.