The Best Daycare Centers in Horicon, WI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Horicon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Horicon
Little Angels Childcare Center
Independent
Little Angels Childcare Center is a highly-regarded local facility serving Horicon families with comprehensive early childhood programs. The center emphasizes a play-based learning approach combined with structured educational activities, focusing on social-emotional development and school readiness. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and implements developmentally appropriate curriculum across all age groups. The facility features secure indoor learning environments and safe outdoor play areas, with emphasis on nutrition through their meal program. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing atmosphere, experienced staff, and strong communication practices.
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Kiddie Kampus Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Mayville (approximately 6 miles from Horicon), Kiddie Kampus Learning Center serves families throughout Dodge County with their comprehensive early childhood programs. The center features a structured academic curriculum that balances literacy, math readiness, and social skills development with hands-on learning experiences. Their qualified educators hold early childhood credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and modern learning materials. The center is particularly noted for its strong kindergarten readiness program and flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Creative Learning Center - Beaver Dam
Creative Learning Centers
Creative Learning Center in Beaver Dam (approximately 12 miles from Horicon) is part of a respected regional childcare organization serving Dodge County families. The center implements a research-based curriculum that emphasizes cognitive, physical, and social development through structured learning centers and individualized instruction. Their state-licensed teachers maintain appropriate credentials and receive ongoing training in early childhood best practices. The facility features secure environments with monitored access, modern safety equipment, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. Parents consistently highlight the center's excellent communication, experienced staff, and comprehensive educational programming that prepares children for academic success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Horicon, WI
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Horicon, WI, and how do I find them?
In Horicon, Wisconsin, licensed childcare options primarily include licensed family childcare homes (operated in a provider's residence, typically for smaller groups) and licensed group childcare centers. There are no large corporate chains in Horicon itself, so most options are local, independent providers. To find them, the most comprehensive resource is the "YoungStar" search tool provided by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can filter by Horicon (53032) to see all licensed providers, their YoungStar quality ratings (1-5 stars), inspection reports, and capacity. Additionally, contacting the Dodge County Child Care Resource & Referral agency or asking for local recommendations in community Facebook groups like "Horicon Happenings" can be very helpful.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare in Horicon, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Horicon and the surrounding Dodge County area, full-time daycare costs can vary. For an infant, you can expect to pay approximately $175-$225 per week at a licensed family home and $200-$275 per week at a center. Rates for toddlers and preschoolers are generally slightly lower. These costs are often more affordable than in larger Wisconsin metro areas like Madison or Milwaukee. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through Wisconsin Shares, the state's childcare subsidy program administered by the Dodge County Department of Human Services. Your eligibility is based on income, work or school requirements, and family size. Some local providers may also offer sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking.
How long are waitlists for daycare in Horicon, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Waitlists for infant care, in particular, can be significant in Horicon due to limited slots and high demand. It is not uncommon for popular, highly-rated providers (those with 4 or 5 YoungStar stars) to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months or more. For toddler and preschool openings, wait times may be shorter but can still be several months. We strongly recommend starting your search and making inquiries as soon as you know you will need care, ideally during pregnancy for an infant spot. Be prepared to get on multiple waitlists and to check back with providers periodically, as spots can sometimes open up unexpectedly.
What are the state licensing requirements for childcare providers in Horicon that I should be aware of as a parent?
All licensed providers in Horicon must meet Wisconsin DCF licensing rules, which cover critical health, safety, and developmental standards. Key requirements include: background checks for all staff and household members in a family home, specific child-to-staff ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 1 year), safe sleep practices for infants, ongoing training in topics like Shaken Baby Syndrome and SIDS prevention, and regular facility inspections. Providers are also rated by the YoungStar quality rating system (1-5 stars), which evaluates education, learning environment, professional practices, and business methods. You can view a provider's full licensing history and any violations on the DCF website.
Are there part-time, drop-in, or non-traditional hour childcare options available in Horicon for parents with shift work?
Options for part-time, drop-in, or care during evenings/weekends are extremely limited in Horicon. Most licensed family homes and centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, daytime schedule to serve parents with traditional 9-5 jobs. For parents with non-traditional hours (e.g., shifts at manufacturing plants in the region like John Deere or healthcare facilities), finding consistent care is a major challenge. Your best bet is to network with other local parents in similar situations to see if any licensed family providers might be willing to accommodate a unique schedule. You may need to expand your search to neighboring communities like Beaver Dam or Mayville, or consider arranging a nanny share with another family. The Dodge County Child Care Resource & Referral agency may have a list of providers who offer more flexible hours.