The Best Daycare Centers in Springfield, NE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Springfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Springfield
Primrose School of Gretna
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Gretna offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development. The school features purpose-built classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor learning environments. Highly qualified early childhood educators implement research-based approaches to literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms with low teacher-to-child ratios, STEM labs, and nutritious meal programs. Located just 10 minutes from Springfield, this center serves families throughout Sarpy County with comprehensive early education programs.
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La Petite Academy of Papillion
La Petite Academy
La Petite Academy of Papillion provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social skills. The center features age-appropriate learning centers, secure facilities with keypad entry, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Certified teachers implement the Grow Early Learning Experience curriculum, focusing on kindergarten readiness while maintaining small class sizes. The center offers flexible scheduling options and serves as a reliable childcare provider for Springfield area families, located approximately 8 miles from Springfield with convenient access via Highway 50.
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Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy is a locally owned and operated childcare center serving the Springfield and greater Papillion area. The academy emphasizes hands-on learning through their Creative Curriculum approach, which includes literacy-rich environments, math manipulatives, and science exploration stations. The facility features secure monitored access, modern classrooms with observation windows, and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. Qualified early childhood educators maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide regular developmental assessments. The center is known for its strong parent communication, inclusive environment, and commitment to preparing children for elementary school success through structured yet nurturing educational experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Springfield, NE
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Springfield, Nebraska, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
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 and centers. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. For Springfield parents, you can verify a provider's license status and view any past non-compliance reports through the Nebraska DHHS "Child Care Licensing" website or by calling their office. It's a critical first step to ensure your chosen provider operates legally and meets state-mandated safety standards.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Springfield, NE, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Springfield and the surrounding Sarpy County area, average costs for full-time infant care typically range from $180 to $250 per week, while toddler care may be slightly lower. Costs can vary based on the type of care (center-based vs. in-home), amenities, and curriculum. For financial assistance, Nebraska offers the Child Care Subsidy Program for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance. You can apply through the ACCESSNebraska portal. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Springfield, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Due to high demand and limited provider capacity in smaller communities like Springfield, waitlists for infant and toddler spots at licensed centers can often be 3 to 6 months long, sometimes longer. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is common. Consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Louisville or Papillion for more options. Follow up politely every few months to show continued interest and keep your application active.
Are there any unique childcare options or programs in Springfield that cater to non-traditional work schedules, like evenings or weekends?
Finding childcare for nights, weekends, or rotating shifts is a significant challenge in Springfield, as most licensed providers operate on standard weekday hours. Your best options are to seek out licensed family childcare homes, as some individual providers may offer more flexible hours to accommodate shift workers. You can search for these providers on the Nebraska DHHS online directory and filter by hours of operation. Alternatively, consider forming a small, trusted nanny-share with other local families in similar situations, ensuring you follow state guidelines for in-home care if it exceeds the unlicensed threshold.
What local resources or organizations in Springfield can help me find and evaluate quality childcare?
A key local resource is the **Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency for Eastern Nebraska**, which serves Sarpy County. They maintain a database of licensed providers, offer guidance on choosing quality care, and can explain state regulations. While not based directly in Springfield, they serve the area and can be contacted online or by phone. Additionally, connecting with other parents through local community Facebook groups (e.g., "Springfield, NE Community") or the Springfield Public Schools network can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations and insights into provider reputations and availability.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Springfield: