The Best Daycare Centers in Davenport, NE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Davenport. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Davenport
York Early Childhood Center
York Public Schools
York Early Childhood Center is a highly-regarded facility operated by York Public Schools, serving Davenport and surrounding areas with a focus on developmental appropriateness and inclusive education. The center employs state-licensed teachers with backgrounds in early childhood education and offers a play-based curriculum aligned with Nebraska Early Learning Guidelines. Key features include low teacher-to-child ratios, individualized learning plans, and robust safety protocols such as secured entryways and regular drills. The program emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and kindergarten readiness through hands-on activities and family engagement. Nutritious meals are provided, and the facility includes indoor learning centers and outdoor play areas designed for age-appropriate exploration.
Daycare Services:
St. Joseph Child Development Center
St. Joseph Catholic Church
St. Joseph Child Development Center integrates faith-based values with a comprehensive early education approach, serving families in Davenport and York County. The center features a structured curriculum that balances academic readiness with character development, including activities in math, language, and religious education. Staff are CPR and First Aid certified, with ongoing training in child development best practices. Safety is prioritized through monitored access and hygiene protocols. The facility offers spacious classrooms, a playground, and a gymnasium for physical activity. Parent involvement is encouraged through regular communication and events, and the center provides flexible scheduling to accommodate working families.
Daycare Services:
Little Learners Preschool
Independent
Little Learners Preschool is a top-rated independent center known for its child-centered, inquiry-based curriculum that fosters creativity and critical thinking. Serving Davenport and the broader York area, it employs experienced educators with degrees in early childhood development and maintains small class sizes for personalized attention. The curriculum includes STEM activities, literacy blocks, and arts integration, supported by modern learning materials and technology. Safety measures include background-checked staff, secure facilities, and allergy-aware policies. The center features bright, engaging classrooms and an outdoor nature play space. High parent satisfaction stems from transparent communication, progress tracking, and a nurturing environment that promotes independence and social skills.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Davenport, NE
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Davenport, Nebraska, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Davenport, 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 licensing ensures they meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff training (including First Aid/CPR and child abuse prevention), and facility safety. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the "Nebraska Child Care Search" tool on the DHHS website. You can also contact the DHHS Division of Public Health, Licensure Unit directly. For smaller in-home providers (caring for 3 or fewer children), registration is optional, so it's especially important to ask about their safety policies and references.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or in-home providers in Davenport, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of providers in a smaller community like Davenport, waitlists can vary but often range from several months to over a year, especially for infant care. Popular local providers and centers in nearby larger towns (like Hastings) that serve Davenport families may have even longer lists. To secure a spot, it's recommended to begin your search and get on lists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. Contact providers directly to inquire about their specific waitlist process, any fees to join the list, and how often they update it. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Davenport and the surrounding rural areas, as they may have more immediate or flexible openings.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Davenport, NE, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Davenport and the surrounding Thayer County area, full-time childcare costs are generally lower than the state average but can vary. For a licensed childcare center, you might expect to pay approximately $120-$160 per week per child. Licensed family home daycare may range from $100-$140 per week. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the Nebraska Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by DHHS. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or school attendance). You can apply through the ACCESSNebraska portal. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts, so be sure to ask.
Are there any part-time or flexible childcare options available in Davenport for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Finding part-time or flexible-hour care in a small town like Davenport can be challenging but not impossible. Most licensed home-based providers may offer more flexibility with schedules than a formal center. Your best approach is to directly discuss your specific needs with providers in Davenport. Some may accommodate drop-in care or irregular part-time schedules based on their current enrollment. For parents working evenings or weekends, options are extremely limited locally. You may need to explore alternatives such as a nanny share with another family in the community or seeking care from a trusted individual who provides occasional, unregulated babysitting. Networking through local community groups or churches can help you find these more informal arrangements.
What resources are available in Davenport to help me find and evaluate local childcare options?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare is the **Nebraska Child Care Search** online database. You can filter by Davenport (68335) or Thayer County to see licensed homes and centers. For personalized referral assistance, contact your local **Child Care Referral Agency**, which serves this region. While not located in Davenport itself, they can provide lists and guidance. Additionally, connect with other parents through local networks like the Davenport Community Facebook page, the school district, or community churches for word-of-mouth recommendations. When evaluating a provider, always schedule an in-person visit, ask for references from current parents, and verify their license status and inspection history with the state.