The Best Daycare Centers in Delavan, WI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Delavan. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Delavan
Bright Horizons at Lake Geneva
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Lake Geneva is a highly-regarded childcare center located just 15 minutes from Delavan. They follow the World at Their Fingertips curriculum, which emphasizes hands-on learning and developmentally appropriate activities. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, low child-to-teacher ratios, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure entry systems. Their facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and dedicated infant rooms. The center is known for its strong emphasis on literacy, STEM activities, and social-emotional development, with regular progress reports and parent communication.
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Little Saints Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
Little Saints Childcare in Elkhorn serves the Delavan area with a comprehensive early childhood program focused on Christian values and academic preparation. Their curriculum includes Creative Curriculum components with emphasis on literacy, mathematics, and social skills development. The center features degreed lead teachers, CPR/first-aid certified staff, and maintained low teacher-to-child ratios. Safety features include secured access, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility includes modern classrooms, large outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and excellent preparation for kindergarten.
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Lake Geneva Montessori School
Independent
Lake Geneva Montessori School offers authentic Montessori education serving families in Delavan and surrounding communities. The school features AMI-trained guides and follows true Montessori methodology with mixed-age classrooms. Their program emphasizes independence, self-directed learning, and hands-on manipulative materials across practical life, sensorial, language, mathematics, and cultural studies. The facility includes beautifully prepared Montessori environments, natural outdoor spaces, and specialized infant and toddler rooms. The school is noted for its peaceful atmosphere, individualized learning plans, and strong community feel. Safety protocols include secure facilities, comprehensive staff training, and health monitoring systems.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Delavan, WI
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Delavan, WI?
In Delavan, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the type of provider and the child's age. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $225 to $300 per week for infant care. For toddlers, the cost may drop slightly to around $200 to $275 per week. Licensed in-home family daycare providers often offer more affordable rates, typically ranging from $150 to $225 per week. These costs are generally lower than in larger Wisconsin cities like Madison or Milwaukee but can still represent a significant portion of a family's budget. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Financial assistance may be available through Wisconsin Shares, the state's childcare subsidy program, for eligible families.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Delavan?
All regulated childcare providers in Delavan must be licensed by the State of Wisconsin's Department of Children and Families (DCF). The most reliable way to check a provider's status and history is to use the state's official "YoungStar" and "Child Care Finder" online tools. You can search for providers by name, city, or zip code to view their YoungStar quality rating (1-5 stars), licensing status, and any recent non-compliance statements from regulatory visits. You can also contact the DCF's Southeast Regional Office, which oversees Walworth County, to request public records. Always visit a potential daycare in person and ask the director to see their current license and discuss any past violations.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Delavan, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Waitlists for high-quality, licensed daycare centers in Delavan are common, especially for infant rooms which have strict staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search and get on waitlists at least 6 to 12 months before their needed start date. Some popular centers may have waitlists exceeding a year for infants. In-home family daycare providers may have more immediate or shorter-term openings, but it's still wise to start inquiries 3-6 months in advance. When touring facilities, always ask about their specific waitlist process, any fees to join the list, and how often they update families on their position.
What are some unique local resources or programs for childcare and early education in Delavan?
Delavan offers several local resources for families. The **Delavan-Darien School District** operates 4K programs that are often hosted in partnership with local daycare centers, providing a free, quality early education option for 4-year-olds. The **Delavan Public Library** hosts regular storytimes and early literacy programs that are great for socialization. For support in finding care, **Walworth County's Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency** (often accessed through programs like "4-C" in surrounding areas) can provide personalized referrals and information on openings. Additionally, community events like those at **Lake Lawn Resort** or **Delavan Lake** often have family-friendly activities that local daycares may incorporate into their programs.
What should I consider regarding seasonal or part-time childcare needs in a community like Delavan with tourism and seasonal employment?
Delavan's economy, influenced by tourism at Delavan Lake and local resorts, means some parents have fluctuating or seasonal work schedules. This creates a specific need for flexible childcare. When searching, explicitly ask providers if they offer part-time, drop-in, or seasonal contracts, as many centers prioritize full-time, year-round enrollment. In-home providers may be more flexible. Another option is to explore nanny shares with other local families, which can be arranged for specific seasons. For summer, look into structured day camps for older preschoolers and school-age children, such as those offered by the **Delavan Parks and Recreation Department**. Planning for this variability is crucial, and it's best to communicate your needs clearly and early with potential providers.