The Best Daycare Centers in Warner, SD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Warner. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Warner
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility serving the Warner community from nearby Aberdeen. They employ a comprehensive curriculum that blends play-based learning with structured academic preparation. The center features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, maintaining excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their facility includes secure access systems, modern classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers, and safe outdoor playgrounds. The center emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academic readiness, with daily progress tracking and regular parent communication. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their in-house food program and offer flexible scheduling to accommodate working families.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Aberdeen
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Aberdeen brings nationally recognized early education standards to the Warner area through their Aberdeen location. Their Balanced Learning® curriculum combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from degreed teachers. The facility features secure entry systems, dedicated age-specific learning environments, and developmentally appropriate playgrounds. The school emphasizes character development and life skills alongside academic preparation, with integrated technology and hands-on learning experiences. They maintain rigorous safety protocols including comprehensive background checks for staff, regular safety drills, and health screening procedures. Parent involvement is encouraged through regular updates, family events, and detailed progress reports.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Campus Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Kiddie Campus Daycare & Preschool has served the Aberdeen-Warner region for over 15 years with a reputation for personalized care and strong educational foundations. Their curriculum focuses on developmental milestones through structured activities and creative play. The center features experienced staff with ongoing professional development in early childhood education and CPR/first aid certification. Their facility includes secure entry systems, modern classrooms with learning centers, and safe outdoor play areas. They emphasize individualized attention with small group sizes and personalized learning plans. The center provides comprehensive services including meal programs, extended hours, and transportation options for school-aged children, making it particularly convenient for families in the Warner area.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Warner, SD
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Warner, SD, and how do I find them?
In Warner, SD, licensed childcare options primarily consist of family/group family daycare homes and potentially center-based care in nearby communities. Warner is a small city, so most local providers are in-home. To find licensed providers, you should use the South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS) Child Care Services online search portal. You can filter by city (Warner) and zip code (57479) to see a list of currently licensed homes, their capacity, and contact information. Additionally, contacting the Northeast South Dakota Community Action Program (NESDCAP) or the local school district can provide referrals and information about preschool partnerships or before/after-school care options for older children.
What is the average cost for full-time childcare in Warner, and are there any financial assistance programs?
For in-home daycare in Warner, SD, full-time care for an infant or toddler typically ranges from $120 to $180 per week. Rates for preschool-aged children are often slightly lower. Costs can vary based on the provider's experience, hours, and whether meals are included. For financial assistance, South Dakota offers the Child Care Assistance (CCA) program through DSS for eligible families based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). You must apply through your local DSS office. Additionally, some providers may offer sibling discounts. It's important to discuss all fees, including registration and late pick-up charges, upfront.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Warner, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small community like Warner, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care, which has stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and if you are expecting, to start inquiring during your second trimester. When contacting providers, ask directly about current availability and their typical waitlist timeline. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Aberdeen if you are commuting for work, as this may offer more options.
What are South Dakota's key licensing requirements for in-home daycare providers that I should verify?
All licensed providers in South Dakota must meet state standards set by DSS. Key requirements you should verify include: passing background checks for all adults in the home, completing CPR and First Aid certification, maintaining safe sleeping practices for infants (cribs, no loose bedding), following approved health and safety training, and adhering to staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for children under 2). Licensed homes are also subject to annual unannounced inspections. You can ask any provider for their license number and verify their status and any history of non-compliance on the DSS website. Don't hesitate to ask about their daily schedule, discipline policy, and emergency plans.
What questions should I ask a potential daycare provider in Warner during an interview or tour?
Beyond verifying licensing, ask specific questions to ensure a good fit. For Warner providers, consider asking: "What is your typical daily schedule and philosophy on learning/play?" "How do you handle meals and naps?" "What is your policy on sick children, and what are your closure days?" "Can you provide references from other local families?" "How do you communicate with parents about my child's day?" "What is your outdoor play space like, and how often do children go outside?" "What is your plan for emergencies or severe weather common in our area?" A face-to-face visit is crucial to observe cleanliness, child interactions, and overall safety.