The Best Daycare Centers in Collins, WI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Collins. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Collins
Imagination Station Child Care Center
Independent
Imagination Station offers a comprehensive educational program focused on developmental milestones through play-based learning. Their curriculum includes STEAM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees, low child-to-teacher ratios, and secure facilities with monitored access. They provide nutritious meals and snacks, extensive outdoor play areas, and regular parent communication through digital portfolios. What sets them apart is their individualized learning approach and strong community reputation for quality care serving the Collins area.
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Kiddie Korner Child Care Center
Independent
Kiddie Korner provides a nurturing environment with a balanced curriculum that combines structured learning and creative exploration. Their program includes early literacy, mathematics readiness, science discovery, and arts integration. The center employs experienced early childhood educators who maintain ongoing professional development. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. They offer flexible scheduling options and maintain excellent parent satisfaction through transparent communication and developmental progress reports. Their established presence and reliable service make them a trusted choice for Collins families.
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Trinity Lutheran Children's Center
Trinity Lutheran Church
Trinity Lutheran Children's Center offers a faith-based educational program that integrates Christian values with comprehensive early childhood development. Their curriculum emphasizes academic readiness, character development, and social skills through hands-on learning experiences. The center features state-licensed teachers with specialized early childhood training, modern learning materials, and safe, well-maintained facilities. They provide family-style meals, age-appropriate playgrounds, and regular community engagement activities. Their strong emphasis on building foundational skills and character development, combined with their long-standing community presence, makes them a top choice for families in the Collins area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Collins, WI
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Collins, WI, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Collins and the surrounding Manitowoc County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $175 to $250 per week, while toddler care is generally $150 to $220 per week. Preschool programs for 3-5 year olds often cost between $130 and $180 per week. These rates can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Wisconsin's statewide **Wisconsin Shares** child care subsidy program is available for eligible families in Collins. Additionally, local organizations like the United Way of Manitowoc County and the Child Care Resource & Referral agency for Northeast Wisconsin can provide guidance on sliding scale fees and other local support options.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Collins is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All licensed group and family child care providers in Collins, WI, are regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can use the **Wisconsin Child Care Finder** online tool to search for providers by zip code (54207 for Collins) and view their licensing status, capacity, and age ranges served. Crucially, this public database also includes records of any licensing violations, non-compliance issues, and substantiated complaints. It's highly recommended to cross-reference this online check with a visit to the facility. You can also contact the Northeast Regional DCF Licensing Office for the most current information on a provider's standing.
What is the current availability and waitlist situation for daycare centers in Collins, especially for infants?
Due to Collins' smaller, rural community size, licensed daycare slots, particularly for infants under 1 year old, are in very high demand and limited supply. It is common for the few dedicated infant rooms at centers like those in nearby Valders or Reedsville to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. For family child care homes in Collins itself, openings are sporadic. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. Connecting with other parents through local Facebook groups (e.g., "Manitowoc County Moms") can provide real-time tips on upcoming openings.
Are there any unique childcare options in Collins that cater to agricultural or non-traditional work schedules?
Yes, recognizing the agricultural and shift-work community in Collins and Manitowoc County, some providers offer flexible care. Several licensed family child care homes may offer early morning, evening, or occasional weekend care to accommodate parents working in local dairy farming, manufacturing in nearby Kiel or Manitowoc, or healthcare shifts. There are also a limited number of providers who offer "drop-in" or part-time care for variable schedules. These spots are highly sought after, so direct inquiry is essential. The **Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) of Northeast Wisconsin** is the best resource to find providers who list these specific flexible schedule options.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare or preschool in the Collins area?
When touring a facility in Collins, go beyond the basics. First, observe interactions: staff should be engaged at the child's level and responsive. Ask about their staff retention; low turnover is a positive sign in a small community. Inquire about their outdoor play policy and where children go—safe, enclosed outdoor space is vital. Given Wisconsin winters, ask about their sick policy and how they handle indoor gross motor activities. Check for cleanliness and safety, including secure entrances. Finally, ask for references from current local parents. A quality provider will be happy to connect you with families in the Collins, Valders, or Reedsville school districts who can share their firsthand experiences.