The Best Daycare Centers in Larsen, WI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Larsen. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Larsen
Apple Tree Learning Center
Apple Tree Learning Centers
Apple Tree Learning Center offers a comprehensive educational approach with developmentally appropriate curriculum for all age groups. Their program emphasizes hands-on learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness skills. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, well-trained staff with early childhood education credentials, and spacious indoor/outdoor play areas. They maintain low teacher-to-child ratios and provide nutritious meals and snacks. The center is known for its warm, nurturing environment and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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St. Mark's Lutheran Child Care & Preschool
St. Mark's Lutheran Church
St. Mark's Lutheran Child Care provides a faith-based early childhood education program that integrates Christian values with academic preparation. Their curriculum focuses on whole-child development through structured learning centers, creative arts, music, and physical activities. The center features experienced teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and age-appropriate playgrounds. They emphasize character development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness while maintaining small class sizes and individualized attention for each child.
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Creative Child Care Centers - De Pere
Creative Child Care Centers
Creative Child Care Centers offers a play-based learning environment that encourages exploration and discovery. Their curriculum is designed to develop cognitive, physical, social, and emotional skills through hands-on activities and structured learning experiences. The center features state-licensed teachers, modern security systems including electronic check-in, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. They provide balanced meals and snacks, extensive outdoor play spaces, and transportation for school-age children. The center is recognized for its inclusive environment and strong focus on building foundational literacy and math skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Larsen, WI
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Larsen, WI?
In Larsen and the surrounding Outagamie County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of provider. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $225 and $275 per week for infant care. For a licensed family/group home daycare, rates are often slightly lower, typically ranging from $175 to $225 per week. These costs are generally in line with the Wisconsin state average. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and supplies. Additionally, Wisconsin's Child Care Subsidy Program (Wisconsin Shares) is available for eligible families in Larsen to help offset these costs.
How can I verify that a daycare provider in Larsen is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All licensed childcare providers in Wisconsin, including those in Larsen, are regulated by the Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can use the official "YoungStar" website and provider search tool to find and verify any licensed center or family home. This public database shows a provider's YoungStar quality rating (1-5 stars), their licensing status, and any serious non-compliance or violation history from state monitoring visits. You can also contact the Northeast Regional DCF Licensing Office, which oversees Outagamie County, for specific records. Always ask any provider you visit for their license number to cross-reference.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Larsen, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the smaller, more rural nature of Larsen, there are fewer large daycare centers compared to bigger cities. However, this can sometimes lead to limited openings and waitlists, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy, ideally 6 to 9 months before their needed start date. Popular local centers and highly-rated family homes often have the longest waitlists. Be prepared to get on multiple lists and check back regularly. Exploring providers in nearby communities like Appleton or New London may also be necessary to find an opening that fits your timeline.
What are the options for part-time or drop-in childcare in Larsen for occasional needs?
Structured part-time and drop-in childcare options are very limited within Larsen itself. There are no national drop-in chain facilities in the immediate area. Your best options are to inquire with local licensed family daycare homes, as some may offer flexible part-time schedules based on availability. For occasional needs, many Larsen parents rely on networks of trusted babysitters found through local community Facebook groups or word-of-mouth. For more regular part-time care (e.g., 2-3 days a week), you may need to look at centers in Appleton, which may offer more schedule flexibility, though commute time will be a factor.
What resources are available in Larsen to help me find and choose a quality childcare provider?
The primary local resource is the Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency for the region, which is 4-C (Community Coordinated Child Care) serving Outagamie County. They offer a free, personalized referral service to help parents find licensed providers that match their location, schedule, and child's age. You can contact them online or by phone. Additionally, the "Wisconsin Early Childhood Collaborating Partners" website provides tools for evaluating quality. Locally, talking to other parents at the Larsen Community Park or through the Larsen Lions Club community events can provide invaluable firsthand recommendations and insights.