The Best Daycare Centers in Concord, NE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Concord. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Concord
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility serving the Concord area from nearby Yankton. They employ a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. The center features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facility access with surveillance systems. Their program includes hands-on learning activities, outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal programs. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, experienced staff, and excellent communication about child development progress.
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Wayne Community Activity Center & Daycare
City of Wayne
The Wayne Community Activity Center operates a highly-rated daycare program serving families throughout Wayne County and surrounding areas including Concord. This municipally-operated facility offers a structured educational program with certified early childhood educators and comprehensive safety protocols. The curriculum focuses on school readiness through play-based learning, literacy development, and social skills building. The center features modern facilities with age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal service. The program is praised for its affordable pricing, qualified staff retention, and strong community integration.
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Tiny Tots Learning Center
Independent
Tiny Tots Learning Center has served families in Thurston County and surrounding communities including Concord for nearly two decades. The center employs a balanced educational approach combining structured learning with creative play. Their certified teaching staff maintains small class sizes and individualized attention for each child. The facility includes secure, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and comprehensive health and safety protocols. Parents consistently highlight the center's family-like atmosphere, experienced long-term staff, and excellent preparation for kindergarten transition. The program includes enrichment activities in music, art, and physical education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Concord, NE
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Concord, Nebraska, and how can I verify a facility's license?
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, childcare centers, and preschools in Concord. Licensing ensures providers meet health, safety, and staff training standards. To verify a facility's license, you can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the Nebraska DHHS website, which shows the license status, any regulatory history, and the program's capacity. You can also call the DHHS Child Care Licensing office directly. It's a critical first step for parents to ensure they are considering a legally operating and regulated provider.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant or toddler daycare in Concord, NE, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Concord and the surrounding rural areas of Nebraska, full-time daycare for an infant or toddler typically ranges from **$150 to $225 per week**. Costs can be slightly lower for preschool-age children. Prices vary based on the type of care (center-based vs. in-home), the provider's amenities, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Nebraska offers the **Child Care Subsidy Program** through DHHS for income-eligible families. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's advisable to contact the **Southeast Nebraska Community Action Partnership** or the **DHHS Office in your county** to inquire about subsidy eligibility and application processes.
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Concord, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Due to the limited number of licensed providers in a smaller community like Concord, waitlists for infant care, in particular, can be significant. It's common to encounter waitlists of **3 to 9 months**, especially for highly-regarded centers or in-home providers. To secure a spot, start your search during pregnancy or at least 6 months before your needed start date. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$50). Follow up every 2-3 months to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Seward or Crete, which may have more options.
What are the options for part-time or drop-in childcare in Concord, NE?
Structured part-time or drop-in childcare is very limited in Concord due to its small size and the prevalence of full-time enrollment models needed to sustain a childcare business. Most licensed family homes and centers prioritize full-time children. However, your best options are to: 1) Inquire directly with local providers if they have occasional openings for part-time care, 2) Explore **registered in-home providers** who may offer more flexible arrangements, and 3) Look into **parent co-ops** or informal nanny-shares with other families in the community, which are common in rural areas. For occasional drop-in care, you may need to look at facilities in larger nearby cities like Lincoln.
Are there any state or local programs in Nebraska that help parents find and evaluate childcare options in the Concord area?
Yes, Nebraska provides a free, statewide resource called **Nebraska Child Care Referral Network**, operated by the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation. You can call their hotline or use their online search to get a customized list of licensed and registered providers in the Concord zip code area (68728). This service can filter by age, hours, and type of care. Furthermore, you can contact the **Sixpence Early Learning Fund** initiatives in Southeast Nebraska, which support high-quality early childhood programs, though direct services may be in neighboring counties. Always schedule in-person tours and ask providers for references from current parents to evaluate quality locally.