The Best Daycare Centers in Stratford, WA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Stratford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Stratford
Little Scholars Preschool
Little Scholars Early Learning Centers
Little Scholars Preschool offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy development, STEM exploration, and social-emotional learning. Their certified teachers maintain low student-teacher ratios and implement individualized learning plans. The facility features secure access systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for art, music, and dramatic play. They provide nutritious meals and snacks following USDA guidelines and maintain excellent state licensing compliance records.
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Kiddie Academy of Moses Lake
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy provides a structured educational environment with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, academic readiness, and physical wellness. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Their degreed educators implement developmentally appropriate practices with regular progress assessments. The facility includes interactive whiteboards, extensive learning materials, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups.
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Building Blocks Daycare & Preschool
Building Blocks Child Development Centers
Building Blocks Daycare & Preschool offers a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on exploration, language development, and early math concepts. The center maintains small class sizes with experienced early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive emergency protocols, and regular health and safety inspections. The facility features multiple outdoor play areas, dedicated nap rooms, and specialized learning centers for different developmental stages.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Stratford, WA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Stratford, WA, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Stratford and all of Washington State, childcare providers must be licensed by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). This includes family home daycares (caring for up to 12 children) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, training (including CPR/First Aid), and facility safety. To verify a provider's license and view any compliance history, you can use the DCYF's free online "Child Care Check" tool. This is a crucial first step for Stratford parents, as it provides transparency and peace of mind regarding a provider's legal standing and record.
Given Stratford's small, rural setting, what is the typical availability and waitlist situation for childcare, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to Stratford's limited population and number of providers, childcare spots, especially for infants and toddlers, can be very scarce. It is common for licensed family home daycares, which are the primary option in such rural communities, to have small capacities and long waitlists. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before their needed start date. Networking with other local parents and contacting providers directly is key. You may also need to consider providers in nearby larger towns like Othello or Moses Lake, which would involve a commute.
What is the average cost of daycare in Stratford, WA, and are there any local or state financial assistance programs available to help?
While specific Stratford rates vary by provider and age of child, parents can expect costs for full-time care to generally range from $600 to $900 per month for a preschooler and $700 to $1,100+ per month for an infant/toddler at a licensed family home. These rates are often lower than in major Washington cities but can still be a significant portion of a household budget. Financial help is available through the state's **Working Connections Child Care (WCCC)** subsidy for income-eligible families. Additionally, the **Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF)** offers a "Child Care Aware" family center that can help Stratford residents navigate payment options and subsidies.
Are there any state-funded early learning programs like ECEAP or Head Start available for preschool-aged children in the Stratford area?
Yes, eligible families in the Stratford area can access the **Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP)**, Washington's state-funded preschool program for 3- and 4-year-olds. ECEAP focuses on school readiness and is free to qualifying families based on income. While there may not be a classroom directly in Stratford, the program is administered regionally. Families should contact the **Educational Service District (ESD) 123**, which serves the region including Franklin County, to find the nearest location, which may be in a neighboring community. Federal Head Start programs may also be available through community action agencies in the region.
What are some key questions to ask a potential daycare provider in Stratford, given the unique aspects of a rural agricultural community?
Beyond standard questions about curriculum and daily routines, Stratford parents should ask location-specific questions. These include: "What is your plan for emergency response, given our distance from major hospitals?" "How do you handle seasonal hazards common here, like extreme summer heat, dust, or agricultural spraying?" "Are outdoor play areas securely fenced and away from farm equipment or rural road traffic?" "What is your policy on school closures or delayed starts for the local district (Stratford School District) and how does that affect your hours?" Also, inquire about flexibility for families with non-traditional hours common in agricultural work.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Stratford: