The Best Daycare Centers in Amherst, WI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Amherst. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Amherst
The Goddard School of Stevens Point
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their play-based curriculum incorporates STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. All lead teachers have bachelor's degrees or higher in early childhood education or related fields. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide regular developmental assessments. The school serves families throughout Portage County, including Amherst residents.
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Primrose School of Stevens Point
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School provides balanced learning through their exclusive Balanced Learning® approach, combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, math, science, and social studies. Their Safeguarding Children program includes comprehensive safety protocols, secured facilities, and rigorous staff training. The school features dedicated infant rooms, interactive learning centers, and outdoor exploration areas. Teachers implement the Primrose Early Learning Series and maintain detailed portfolios tracking each child's progress. They offer flexible scheduling options and serve the broader Portage County area, including Amherst families.
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Little Einsteins Child Development Center
Independent
Little Einsteins provides comprehensive early childhood education with a focus on hands-on learning and individualized attention. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum® with project-based learning, literacy development, and social-emotional skills. The center maintains state-exceeding staff qualifications with ongoing professional development and low child-to-teacher ratios. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-separated playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for art, music, and dramatic play. They offer nutritious meal programs and maintain open communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences. Serving the Stevens Point area and surrounding communities including Amherst.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Amherst, WI
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Amherst, WI, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Amherst and the surrounding Portage County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $175 to $225 per week. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs are slightly lower, averaging $150 to $200 per week. These rates are generally lower than in larger Wisconsin cities like Madison or Appleton. For financial assistance, Wisconsin's statewide **Wisconsin Shares** child care subsidy program is available for eligible families, administered through the Portage County Department of Human Services. Additionally, local providers may offer sibling discounts. It's highly recommended to contact the **Portage County Child Care Resource & Referral** agency for the most current information on costs and assistance specific to your family's situation.
How do I verify that a daycare or childcare provider in Amherst is properly licensed and what should I look for in their inspection reports?
All licensed group and family childcare providers in Wisconsin are regulated by the Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can verify a provider's license and view their compliance history by using the **Wisconsin Child Care Regulatory System (WISCCRS)** online search tool. When reviewing a provider in Amherst, pay close attention to any violations cited, particularly those related to staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and health and safety standards (like safe sleep practices for infants). A clean record is ideal, but note that some minor violations are common and are corrected. You can also contact the **North Central Region DCF Licensing Office** for questions. Always visit the facility in person to see if the environment matches the report.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Amherst, and what strategies can I use to secure a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant and toddler care at the limited number of licensed centers in Amherst, often ranging from 3 to 9 months. Popular in-home family daycare providers also fill quickly. To secure a spot, start your search during pregnancy or at least 6 months before you need care. Contact all licensed providers in Amherst and nearby towns like Nelsonville or Plover. Get on multiple waitlists, even if they require a small fee. Be flexible with your start date if possible. Networking through local parent groups on social media or community boards can also uncover openings with smaller, licensed family providers who may not advertise widely.
What are the options for part-time, drop-in, or non-traditional hour childcare in the Amherst area?
Options for part-time or drop-in care in Amherst are very limited. Most licensed centers and family providers prioritize full-time, Monday-Friday schedules. For occasional or part-time needs, your best bet is to inquire with local in-home family daycare providers, as some may offer more flexible arrangements. For true drop-in care, you would likely need to look at centers in larger nearby communities like Stevens Point. For non-traditional hours (evenings, weekends), there are currently no licensed providers in Amherst offering these services. Parents often create informal babysitting co-ops or hire local college students from UW-Stevens Point or Mid-State Technical College for such needs. Always ensure any individual you hire has passed a background check.
What unique resources or programs are available for finding and evaluating childcare in Amherst and Portage County?
The primary local resource is the **Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency for Portage County**, which is part of the statewide network. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in Amherst and the county, help parents understand quality indicators, and explain financial assistance programs. They may also have information on local "Play & Learn" groups, which are informal networks for parents and young children. For evaluating quality, look for providers participating in Wisconsin's **YoungStar** quality rating system—a 5-star program that assesses education, learning environment, and business practices. While not all Amherst providers are rated, those with higher YoungStar ratings (3-5 stars) have demonstrated a commitment to quality beyond minimum licensing standards.
Childcare Insights for Amherst
Finding the right preschool daycare for your child is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make as a parent in Amherst, Wisconsin. It’s about more than just a convenient location; it’s about finding a nurturing environment where your little one can learn, play, and grow while feeling safe and loved. The search for “preschool daycare near me” in our close-knit community comes with unique advantages, as local providers often offer a personalized touch that larger centers in bigger cities might not.
When beginning your search in Amherst, consider the distinct rhythm of our area. Many families appreciate programs that incorporate the natural beauty surrounding us, from seasonal activities to outdoor play that takes advantage of Wisconsin’s changing landscapes. A key first step is to define your family’s needs. Are you looking for a full-day program to align with work schedules, or a part-time preschool experience? Knowing this will help you filter options. Next, make a shortlist and plan visits. There’s no substitute for seeing a classroom in action, observing how staff interact with children, and gauging the overall atmosphere. Trust your instincts—you’ll know a good fit when you feel it.
In a community like Amherst, word-of-mouth recommendations are invaluable. Don’t hesitate to ask other parents at the library, community events, or the park about their experiences. Local insights can lead you to wonderful, smaller-scale programs or in-home providers that might not have a large online presence but are cherished pillars of our community. It’s also wise to verify that any program you’re considering is licensed by the State of Wisconsin. This ensures they meet important health, safety, and educational standards. You can check this through the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families website.
As you evaluate options, look for a balance between structured learning and free play. A quality preschool daycare in Amherst will have a curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten through early literacy and math concepts, but also fosters social skills like sharing and cooperation. Ask about daily routines, teacher qualifications, and their philosophy on discipline and communication. How will they keep you informed about your child’s day and progress? Finally, consider practicalities like cost, hours of operation, and their policy for sick days or school closures. Finding the right spot may take some time, but in our supportive Amherst community, you’re not alone in the search. The perfect place is out there, ready to become a second home for your child and a trusted partner for your family.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Amherst: