The Best Daycare Centers in Offutt A F B, NE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Offutt A F B. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Offutt A F B
KinderCare at Bellevue
KinderCare Learning Companies
This NAEYC-accredited center serves many military families from Offutt AFB with comprehensive early childhood education programs. Features include a STEM-focused curriculum, phonics-based literacy programs, and secure entry systems. Teachers maintain low student-teacher ratios with qualified early childhood educators. The center offers nutritious meals and snacks, indoor and outdoor play areas, and specialized programs for different age groups. Particularly strong in preparing children for kindergarten with structured learning activities while maintaining play-based exploration.
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Primrose School of Bellevue
Primrose Schools
This nationally recognized franchise offers Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance. Features include dedicated learning spaces for art, music, and physical activity, along with secure facility protocols. All teachers are early childhood certified with ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes character development and life skills alongside academic preparation. Offers healthy chef-prepared meals and strong parent communication through regular updates and conferences. Particularly noted for their structured daily schedules and developmentally appropriate activities.
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The Goddard School of Bellevue
Goddard Systems, Inc.
This F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program focuses on play-based learning with academic preparation. Features secure facilities with keypad entry, live streaming for parent observation, and modern classroom technology. All lead teachers have four-year degrees in education or related fields. The curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and technology integrated throughout the day. Offers extended hours to accommodate military family schedules and provides regular developmental assessments. Strong emphasis on social-emotional development and school readiness skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Offutt A F B, NE
Are there any childcare options specifically for military families stationed at Offutt AFB?
Yes, Offutt AFB offers dedicated childcare resources for military families. The primary option is the Child Development Center (CDC) located on base, which provides full-day, part-day, and hourly care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. It is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and offers priority registration to active-duty military families. Fees are based on total family income, making it an affordable option. Additionally, the Family Child Care (FCC) program licenses qualified providers to offer care in their on-base homes, providing a more home-like setting. It is crucial to get on the CDC waitlist as early as possible due to high demand.
What is the typical cost of daycare in the Offutt AFB and surrounding Bellevue area, and are there financial assistance programs?
In the Bellevue/Offutt area, costs vary significantly. The on-base CDC uses a sliding fee scale based on total family income. For off-base centers, you can expect to pay between $220 to $350 per week for infant care, and $180 to $280 per week for preschool-aged children. Home-based daycares may be slightly less expensive. Military families may be eligible for fee assistance through the Department of Defense’s Child Care Fee Assistance program if they use a community-based provider that meets certain standards. Nebraska also offers the Child Care Subsidy Program for income-eligible families, which can help reduce costs at participating providers.
How long are the waitlists for childcare at Offutt AFB, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for the on-base Child Development Center (CDC) and popular off-base centers in Bellevue can be lengthy, often several months to over a year for infants. The best strategy is to get on multiple waitlists as soon as you have orders to the base or know your due date. Contact the CDC and the Family Child Care (FCC) coordinator immediately. Also, explore the MilitaryChildCare.com website, the centralized system for requesting care at all DoD CDCs and FCC homes. For off-base options, personally visit and apply to several licensed centers and home providers. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances.
What are Nebraska's licensing requirements for childcare providers, and how can I verify a provider'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). Licensing ensures providers meet health, safety, and staff training standards. You can verify a provider’s license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations through the Nebraska DHHS "Child Care Licensing" website. For providers on Offutt AFB, the FCC program has its own rigorous certification process that meets or exceeds state standards. Always ask to see a provider’s current license or certificate and review their latest inspection report before enrolling your child.
What backup or emergency childcare options are available for Offutt AFB personnel with unpredictable schedules?
Offutt AFB understands the demands of military duty. The CDC offers a "reservation-based" care program for when you need occasional or backup care. The base also participates in the DoD's **Child Care Aware of America** program, which may provide subsidies for emergency care with approved off-base providers. For true emergencies, the Air Force Aid Society may offer grants for unexpected childcare costs. Additionally, the **Youth Center** provides programs for school-age children (grades K-12), including before/after-school care and drop-in care on school closure days. It's essential to register with these programs in advance and understand their policies for last-minute situations.