The Best Daycare Centers in Union, NE
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Union. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Union
Primrose School of West Omaha
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of West Omaha offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The facility features secure, age-appropriate classrooms with dedicated learning centers, outdoor playgrounds, and comprehensive safety protocols including secured entry systems. Their degreed teachers implement research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The school provides nutritious meals and snacks through their exclusive Harmony & Heart® menu and maintains low student-teacher ratios for individualized attention.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of West Omaha
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in West Omaha provides a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program, developed by early childhood education experts. The facility features bright, modern classrooms, multiple playgrounds, and comprehensive security systems. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the curriculum emphasizes STEAM learning, literacy development, and social skills. The school maintains strict health and safety protocols, including regular sanitation and secure check-in/check-out procedures, while offering flexible scheduling options for families.
Daycare Services:
KinderCare at 180th and Center
KinderCare Learning Companies
This KinderCare location offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with research-based curriculum that aligns with state early learning standards. The center features dedicated infant rooms with individualized care plans, age-appropriate learning centers, and secure outdoor play areas. Their team includes experienced teachers with early childhood credentials who implement engaging activities in literacy, math, science, and creative arts. The facility maintains rigorous safety standards including secured access, regular safety drills, and health screening protocols. They offer nutritious meals and accommodate various scheduling needs with full-time and part-time options.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Union, NE
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Union, 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 and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet health, safety, and staff training standards. For Union specifically, you can verify a provider's license status and view any inspection reports through the Nebraska DHHS "Child Care Licensing" website. You can also contact the DHHS Eastern Service Area office, which oversees Cass County, for direct inquiries. It's highly recommended to only use licensed providers, as this offers a baseline of regulatory oversight and recourse for parents.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Union, NE, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Union and the surrounding Cass County area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $180 to $230 per week. For toddlers, the cost may be slightly lower, around $160 to $210 per week. Family childcare homes often offer more competitive rates. These costs are generally lower than in larger Nebraska metros like Omaha or Lincoln. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the Nebraska Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by DHHS. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or school requirements. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Union, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Union, quality daycare spots, especially for infants, can have significant waitlists, often ranging from 3 to 9 months. It's advisable to begin your search and get on lists as early as possible during pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their current list length, their policy for moving up the list (e.g., do they require a deposit?), and how often they update families. Consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Murray, Eagle, or even the outskirts of Plattsmouth. Being flexible on start dates and considering both centers and licensed family homes can increase your chances of finding timely care.
Are there any unique or nature-based childcare programs available for preschoolers in the Union area?
While Union itself is a small village, the surrounding rural and natural landscape of Cass County influences some local childcare approaches. Some licensed family childcare providers may incorporate outdoor play, gardening, and exploration of local environments into their daily routines. For more structured nature-based preschool programs, parents often look to larger nearby communities. However, Union's proximity to outdoor areas like the Platte River and local parks means many providers prioritize outdoor time. When touring facilities, ask about their daily schedule, outdoor play policy (in all weather), and if they utilize any local parks or trails. The Union Public School district may also offer preschool programs with a community-focused approach.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare in Union, and are there local resources to help me evaluate options?
During a tour, observe the cleanliness, safety (outlet covers, secure gates, fenced outdoor area), and the ratio of caregivers to children. Notice how staff interact with the kids—are they engaged and responsive? Ask about staff qualifications, turnover rates, daily routines, meal plans, and their sick child policy. Given Union's location, also inquire about their emergency preparedness plan for severe weather common to Nebraska. For local evaluation resources, you can contact **Nebraska Extension in Cass County**, which often provides parenting education and may have insights into local childcare quality. Additionally, the statewide **Nebraska Child Care Referral Network** (1-877-682-4777) can provide a list of licensed providers in your specific zip code and offer general guidance on choosing care.
Childcare Insights for Union
Finding the right part-time daycare in Union, Nebraska, can feel like a significant step for any family. Whether you’re returning to work a few days a week, need care for a preschooler to encourage socialization, or simply require a few hours of support to manage appointments and errands, knowing your local options is key. The search for "part time daycare near me" here in Union is often about balancing the convenience of proximity with the quality and warmth of a childcare setting that feels like an extension of your home.
In a close-knit community like Union, one of the first places to start your search is by tapping into local networks. Conversations with other parents at the Union Market or after school at Union Elementary can yield personal recommendations that you won’t find through a simple online search. Many excellent in-home providers or smaller daycare programs operate by word-of-mouth, building their reputation on trust and consistent care within the Cass County area. It’s also wise to check with local churches or community centers, as they sometimes host or can recommend reputable part-time preschool or daycare programs that cater to flexible schedules.
When evaluating part-time daycare options in Union, consider the unique rhythm of our community. A provider who incorporates local elements—like talking about Nebraska agriculture, enjoying outdoor play in our distinct seasons, or participating in community events—can offer a wonderfully familiar experience for your child. Given that part-time care often means your child is transitioning between home and daycare more frequently, finding a setting with a small, consistent caregiver-to-child ratio is particularly valuable. This helps ensure your child receives the individual attention they need to feel secure and thrive during their shorter stays.
Practical logistics are, of course, a major factor. Be clear about your needed schedule—whether it’s specific mornings, certain days of the week, or a variable schedule—and inquire upfront about a provider’s flexibility and policies. Some programs may have set part-time slots, while in-home providers might offer more personalized arrangements. Don’t forget to ask about their approach to curriculum and play; even part-time care should be enriching. A blend of structured activities and free play is ideal for supporting development. Finally, always verify that any provider you are seriously considering is licensed by the State of Nebraska, which ensures they meet important health, safety, and training standards.
Ultimately, the goal is to find a part-time daycare in Union where you feel confident and your child feels happy and engaged. Trust your instincts during visits; notice how caregivers interact with the children and whether the environment feels welcoming and safe. This peace of mind is priceless, allowing you to manage your commitments knowing your little one is in good hands right here in our own community.