The Best Daycare Centers in Murray, NE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Murray. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Murray
The Goddard School of Papillion
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Papillion is a highly-regarded early childhood education center serving the greater Omaha metro area, including Murray residents. They follow the Goddard F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secure keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development programs. Facilities include age-appropriate playgrounds, bright classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated art and music areas. Parents praise the consistent communication through daily reports and the nurturing environment.
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Learning Tree Academy
Learning Tree Academy
Learning Tree Academy serves families throughout Sarpy County and is accessible to Murray residents. They offer a comprehensive early childhood program emphasizing hands-on learning and developmental milestones. The curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum with Montessori-inspired elements, focusing on literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional development. Features low student-to-teacher ratios, CPR/first-aid certified staff, and secure facilities with surveillance systems. The center includes modern classrooms, outdoor play areas with safety surfaces, and dedicated learning centers for different age groups. Parents consistently highlight the caring staff, clean facilities, and strong academic preparation for kindergarten.
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Primrose School of West Omaha
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of West Omaha is a nationally recognized early education provider serving the western Omaha metro region, including Murray families. Their Balanced Learning® approach combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from educated teachers. The curriculum includes literacy development, character development programs, and hands-on learning experiences. Features secure building access, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and health/safety protocols. Facilities include age-specific playgrounds, dedicated music and movement rooms, and technology-enhanced learning spaces. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, experienced leadership, and the strong sense of community among families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Murray, NE
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Murray, Nebraska, and how can I verify a provider'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. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and background checks. To verify a provider's license in the Murray area, you can use the "Nebraska Child Care Search" tool on the DHHS website, which shows the provider's license status, any history of non-compliance, and their licensed capacity. You can also contact the DHHS Child Care Licensing office directly. It's a crucial first step for parents to ensure their chosen provider operates legally and safely under state oversight.
What is the typical cost range for full-time childcare in Murray, NE, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Murray and the surrounding Cass County area, costs vary by provider type. A licensed family childcare home typically charges between $150 to $225 per week for full-time infant/toddler care. Larger childcare centers in nearby towns like Plattsmouth or Nebraska City may range from $200 to $300 per week. These rates are generally lower than in the Omaha metro area but can still be a significant portion of a family's budget. For financial assistance, Nebraska offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through DHHS for income-eligible families. Additionally, local organizations like the United Way of the Midlands may provide resources or referrals. It's also worth asking individual providers if they offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees based on income.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers and in-home providers in Murray, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Murray, waitlists can be surprisingly long, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant care. Popular in-home providers and centers in nearby larger towns often have the longest lists. To secure a spot, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, even if you're not yet ready for care. Be proactive—check in every few months to confirm your spot remains on the list. Consider expanding your search to neighboring communities such as Weeping Water, Louisville, or Plattsmouth. Building a relationship with a provider by visiting and expressing genuine interest can also be beneficial.
What are the options for part-time or drop-in childcare in Murray, NE, for parents with irregular schedules?
Finding consistent part-time or drop-in care in a small town like Murray can be challenging, as most licensed providers prioritize full-time enrollments to maintain stable income. Your best options include: 1) Networking with other local parents to find a licensed family home provider who may have occasional openings or offer a shared nanny arrangement. 2) Checking with local churches, as some may offer mother's day out programs or preschool with partial-week schedules. 3) Using online caregiver platforms to find local, vetted babysitters for irregular hours, though this is not licensed daycare. 4) Inquiring at larger childcare centers in Plattsmouth (about a 15-minute drive), as they sometimes have more flexibility for part-time schedules. Always confirm that any arrangement meets your safety and reliability standards.
Are there any state or local quality rating systems for childcare providers that I should look for in the Murray area?
Yes, Nebraska operates a voluntary quality improvement and rating system called "Step Up to Quality." Participating providers—both centers and family homes—are rated on a scale of 1 to 5 stars based on criteria like staff education, learning environment, and family engagement. While not all providers in rural areas participate, it's a valuable tool for parents. You can search for rated providers in Cass County on the Nebraska DHHS website. A higher star rating generally indicates a stronger commitment to quality beyond basic licensing. In Murray, a provider with a 3-star or higher rating would be considered exceptional for the area. When touring, ask providers if they participate in the program or have other quality accreditations, as this demonstrates a proactive approach to excellence in early childhood education.