The Best Daycare Centers in Elderon, WI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Elderon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Elderon
KinderCare Learning Center at Wausau
KinderCare Education
This NAEYC-accredited center offers comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum including phonics, math, science, and social skills development. Features include secure keypad entry, dedicated age-appropriate classrooms, and highly qualified teachers with early childhood credentials. The center emphasizes STEM learning, literacy development, and social-emotional growth through structured play and hands-on activities. Parent communication includes daily reports and regular conferences to track developmental milestones.
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The Learning Center at Wausau
The Learning Center
A locally owned and operated childcare center featuring the Creative Curriculum system with individualized learning plans for each child. The facility includes secure monitored access, large outdoor playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment, and nutritionally balanced meals prepared on-site. Staff maintain low teacher-to-child ratios with lead teachers holding degrees in early childhood education. Special programs include music enrichment, foreign language exposure, and community field trips for older children.
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The Goddard School of Stevens Point
Goddard Systems, Inc.
This premier early childhood education center utilizes the Goddard School F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with play-based learning. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, multiple playgrounds organized by age group, and technology-enhanced classrooms. All teachers participate in ongoing professional development and the curriculum includes yoga, sign language, and environmental awareness. The school maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Elderon, WI
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Elderon, WI, and how do I find them?
In Elderon and the surrounding Marathon County area, your primary licensed options are family child care programs (run in a provider's home, typically caring for up to 8 children) and group child care centers. Due to Elderon's rural nature, family child care is often the most prevalent and accessible option within the village itself. To find licensed providers, you should use the official "Wisconsin Child Care Finder" tool on the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) website. This tool allows you to search by zip code (54435) and filter by type, hours, and openings. Additionally, contacting the Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency for North Central Wisconsin, which serves Marathon County, can provide personalized referrals and information on local availability.
What is the typical cost for full-time daycare in Elderon, and are there any financial assistance programs for families?
In the Elderon area, costs can vary. For a family child care home, you might expect to pay between $150 to $225 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. Center-based care in nearby larger towns like Wausau may range from $225 to $325 per week. These rates are generally lower than in major Wisconsin cities but are influenced by the provider's credentials and program offerings. For financial assistance, Wisconsin's statewide **Wisconsin Shares** child care subsidy program is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or education requirements. You can apply through the Marathon County Department of Social Services. Also, some local providers may offer sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking.
Are daycare waitlists common in Elderon, and how far in advance should I start looking for care?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant care and highly-regarded family providers in a small community like Elderon. Due to limited slots, it is strongly recommended to begin your search **at least 6 to 9 months** before you need care, particularly if you have an infant. For preschool-age children, 3-6 months in advance is advisable. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and policy. It's also a good strategy to get on more than one list. Be prepared for potentially longer wait times if you require non-standard hours, as options are more limited in rural areas.
What specific Wisconsin state licensing regulations and safety standards should I verify when touring a daycare in Elderon?
All licensed providers in Wisconsin must meet strict DCF standards. When touring in Elderon, you should verify and observe: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios and Group Sizes**: For example, for children under 2, the ratio is 1:4. 2) **Background Checks**: All staff must have completed comprehensive background checks. 3) **Safe Sleep Practices for Infants** (cribs, no loose bedding). 4) **Current License**: The license should be posted and show no serious violations. You can look up a provider's full licensing history, including any violations, on the Wisconsin DCF website. 5) **Emergency Plans**: Ask about procedures for fires, severe weather, and health emergencies. Given Elderon's location, ask about their plan for winter weather closures or power outages.
As a parent in a rural area like Elderon, what questions should I ask about transportation, outdoor play, and communication?
These are crucial considerations for rural childcare. For **transportation**, ask if the provider offers any pickup/dropoff services for local schools (like the Elderon Elementary) or if you are solely responsible. Clarify policies for late pickups, especially in winter. For **outdoor play**, inquire about the on-site play area, how often children go outside, and safety measures (fencing, sun protection, insect/tick precautions common in Wisconsin woods). For **communication**, ask how they relay daily updates (apps, notebooks) and how they handle emergencies when cell service can be spotty in parts of Marathon County. Also, ask about their policy on farm or animal visits, which may be a unique local experience but requires clear safety protocols.