The Best Daycare Centers in Shickley, NE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Shickley. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Shickley
Little Learners Preschool & Childcare
Little Learners Educational Centers
Little Learners Preschool & Childcare is a highly-regarded local facility serving Shickley and surrounding communities with comprehensive early childhood education programs. They employ state-certified early childhood educators and maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios. The curriculum emphasizes play-based learning, social-emotional development, and kindergarten readiness skills. Their facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. They provide nutritious meals and snacks following USDA guidelines and maintain strong communication with parents through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Tender Hearts Child Development Center
Tender Hearts Learning Group
Located in nearby Geneva (approximately 10 miles from Shickley), Tender Hearts Child Development Center serves families throughout Fillmore County with a research-based educational approach. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum components with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities tailored to each developmental stage. The center features secure facilities with CCTV monitoring, certified teaching staff with ongoing professional development, and structured learning environments that balance academic preparation with creative expression. They offer flexible scheduling options and transportation services for school-age children in the Shickley area.
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Little Sprouts Learning Center
Little Sprouts Educational Services
Little Sprouts Learning Center in Fairbury (approximately 25 miles from Shickley) provides high-quality childcare services to families throughout Jefferson and Fillmore Counties. Their educational philosophy combines Montessori-inspired activities with structured learning objectives aligned with Nebraska Early Learning Guidelines. The center features purpose-built classrooms, extensive outdoor learning environments, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure entry systems and regular safety drills. Staff members hold early childhood credentials and participate in continuous training. The program emphasizes character development, literacy foundations, and hands-on learning experiences while maintaining strong parent partnerships through digital communication platforms and family engagement events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Shickley, NE
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Shickley, Nebraska?
In Shickley, Nebraska, licensed childcare options primarily consist of family childcare homes and potentially a center-based program, though availability can vary. Family childcare homes are the most common, where a provider cares for a smaller group of children (typically up to 12, including their own) in a residential setting. These are licensed by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Due to Shickley's small, rural nature, there may not be a large commercial daycare center within the city limits. Parents often also rely on approved in-home providers or may need to consider providers in nearby towns like Geneva or Hebron. Checking the Nebraska DHHS Child Care Search website is the best way to find currently licensed providers in the Shickley zip code (68436).
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Shickley, and when should I start looking?
Given the limited number of providers in a small community like Shickley, waitlists can be significant and unpredictable. It is highly recommended to start your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before you need care. Many family childcare homes in Shickley may only have a few openings per year as children age out. Contacting providers directly to inquire about their current list and estimated timeline is crucial. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances. Networking with other local parents through community groups or churches can also provide leads on upcoming openings that may not be widely advertised.
What is the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare in Shickley, NE?
Costs in Shickley are generally lower than in metropolitan areas of Nebraska but can vary based on the provider, the child's age, and hours needed. For a licensed family childcare home, you can expect to pay approximately $120 to $180 per week for full-time care for an infant or toddler. This often includes meals and snacks. Rates for preschool-aged children may be slightly lower. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., formula, diapers, wipes). To help with costs, Nebraska offers the Child Care Subsidy Program for eligible families, and you can apply through the DHHS. Some local providers may also offer sibling discounts.
What should I look for when visiting a potential in-home daycare provider in Shickley?
When visiting a family childcare home in Shickley, beyond checking their Nebraska DHHS license is current and posted, observe the environment closely. Look for a clean, safe, and child-proofed space with adequate indoor and outdoor play areas. Ask about the provider's daily schedule, educational philosophy, and discipline policy. Inquire about their experience, training in CPR/First Aid, and their plan for emergencies. Given the rural setting, ask about their transportation policies and backup plans for provider illness. It's also wise to ask for references from current or former parents. Trust your instincts about the caregiver's interaction with the children and whether the environment feels warm and engaging.
Are there any state-funded preschool or early childhood programs available to Shickley residents?
Shickley Public School, part of the Shickley PK-12 system, may offer a preschool program for children who are 4 years old by July 31st. This is typically a part-day program that may have specific eligibility requirements or a tuition cost. Availability can vary year-to-year based on funding and enrollment. For younger children or more full-day options, the primary resource is the private, licensed childcare providers mentioned earlier. You can contact Shickley Public School directly for the most current information on their early childhood offerings. Additionally, Nebraska's "Sixpence" grants fund some high-quality infant/toddler programs, but these are less common in very rural areas and may not be available directly in Shickley.