The Best Daycare Centers in Roca, NE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Roca. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Roca
Primrose School of Lincoln South
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Lincoln South offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® approach that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their research-based curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, math, science, and social studies. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning spaces. All lead teachers have early childhood education credentials, and the school maintains low student-teacher ratios. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their exclusive Harmony & Heart® menu. Parents appreciate the regular communication through the Primrose Schools app and detailed progress reports.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Lincoln
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lincoln provides a play-based learning environment with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that promotes social, emotional, and academic development. Their STEAM-focused curriculum includes science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics activities. The school features secure facilities with coded entry systems, indoor gymnasium, and age-specific playgrounds. All teachers are trained in early childhood development and CPR/first aid certified. The center offers extended hours and provides daily updates to parents about their child's activities and development through the Goddard School app.
Daycare Services:
Lincoln Children's Academy
Lincoln Children's Academy
Lincoln Children's Academy offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a focus on individualized learning and development. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills through hands-on activities and play-based learning. The center features secure facilities with surveillance systems, large outdoor play areas, and dedicated classrooms for each age group. Staff members are required to have early childhood education credentials and ongoing professional development. The academy provides nutritious meals and maintains small class sizes to ensure personalized attention. Parents value the strong community atmosphere and consistent communication about their child's progress.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Roca, NE
What types of licensed childcare options are available in and around Roca, Nebraska?
In Roca and the immediate surrounding Lancaster County area, parents typically have access to three main types of licensed childcare: family childcare homes, childcare centers, and preschool programs. Roca itself, being a smaller village, has a limited number of providers, often in-home family daycare settings. Many families in Roca look to nearby larger communities like Lincoln (approximately 15-20 minutes away) for more extensive options, including nationally accredited centers, faith-based preschools, and Montessori programs. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) licenses all providers, and you can search their online database for licensed options using your specific zip code (68430 for Roca) to see current, legally operating providers.
What is the average cost for full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in the Roca area?
Childcare costs in the Roca area are generally influenced by the lower cost of living compared to Lincoln proper, but availability is a bigger factor. For a licensed family childcare home in Roca or a nearby rural area, you might expect to pay between $150 to $200 per week for full-time infant care. For childcare centers in Lincoln that serve Roca commuters, weekly rates are typically higher, ranging from $225 to $300+ per week for infants. Toddler care is often slightly less expensive. It's important to note that due to limited local slots, some providers may charge premiums. We recommend contacting providers directly for their most current rates and inquiring about any multi-child discounts.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Roca, and how can I secure a spot for my child?
Yes, waitlists are a common challenge in Roca and throughout Lancaster County due to a high demand for quality childcare and a limited number of providers. For the few licensed in-home providers in Roca itself, waitlists can be 6 to 12 months long, especially for infant care. To secure a spot, it is advisable to begin your search and make inquiries as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Be prepared to get on multiple waitlists, including providers in nearby Lincoln. When contacting a provider, ask specific questions about their list: how many families are ahead of you, how often it updates, and if a deposit is required to hold a future spot.
What are Nebraska's key childcare licensing regulations I should ask providers about in Roca?
Nebraska DHHS sets strict regulations for all licensed providers. Key standards you should ask about include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 18 months), **Maximum Group Sizes**, and **Background Checks** for all staff and household members in a home setting. Providers must also have training in areas like Pediatric CPR/First Aid, Safe Sleep practices (for infants), and Child Abuse Prevention. In Roca, where many options are family homes, it's also wise to ask about their disaster and fire drill plans, as well as their outdoor play space safety. You can verify a provider's license status and any history of non-compliance through the Nebraska DHHS Child Care Licensing website.
What local resources or financial assistance programs are available to help Roca families with childcare costs?
Several Nebraska state and federal programs can assist eligible Roca families. The primary resource is the **Nebraska Child Care Subsidy Program** (often called "Title XX"), which helps low-income working families, those in education/training, or those receiving protective services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You apply through the Nebraska DHHS. Additionally, the **Nebraska Department of Education** offers **Early Childhood Grant** programs for preschool-aged children. For local guidance, families can contact the **Lincoln-Lancaster County Child Care Referral Agency** (often operated through organizations like Community Action), which serves the entire county, including Roca, and can help with provider searches and subsidy information. Some Lincoln-based employers also offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).