The Best Daycare Centers in Readfield, WI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Readfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Readfield
The Goddard School of Waupaca
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Waupaca offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their state-licensed teachers create individualized learning plans for each child, focusing on literacy, STEM, social-emotional development, and creative arts. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide nutritious meals. The center is known for its comprehensive safety protocols and regular parent communication through daily reports and digital updates.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Waupaca
KinderCare Education
KinderCare's Waupaca location provides a nationally-recognized curriculum that focuses on whole-child development through play-based learning and structured activities. Their program includes phonics-based reading readiness, mathematics foundations, science exploration, and social skills development. The center features secure keypad entry, certified teachers with ongoing professional development, and developmentally appropriate learning centers. They offer flexible scheduling options and maintain strict health and safety protocols including regular sanitization and emergency preparedness drills. Parents appreciate the consistent communication and detailed progress reports.
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Wee Care Daycare & Preschool
Wee Care Daycare
Wee Care Daycare & Preschool is a locally-owned center serving the Readfield area with a comprehensive early childhood program. Their curriculum blends Montessori-inspired activities with structured learning, focusing on cognitive development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness. The facility includes separate nurseries for infants, dedicated toddler rooms, and preschool classrooms with hands-on learning centers. They maintain small class sizes with certified early childhood educators and provide homemade nutritious meals. The center is praised for its warm, family-like atmosphere and strong emphasis on individualized attention and outdoor play experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Readfield, WI
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Readfield, WI, and how do I verify a provider's license?
In Readfield, WI, you'll primarily find licensed group childcare centers and licensed family childcare providers. Group centers operate in commercial facilities and care for larger groups of children, while family providers care for a smaller number of children in their own homes. To verify a provider's license, you should use the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) "Child Care Finder" website or call their licensing specialist for the region. This tool allows you to search for providers in the Readfield area (zip code 54969) and view their licensing status, any recent violations, and their program's star rating under Wisconsin's YoungStar quality rating system. Always confirm licensing directly with the state, as it ensures the provider meets Wisconsin's standards for safety, staff training, and child-to-adult ratios.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in and around Readfield, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the rural nature of Readfield and limited providers, waitlists for quality daycare, especially for infants and toddlers, can be significant. It's common for popular centers in nearby communities like Waupaca or Weyauwega to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. To secure a spot, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers, get on multiple waitlists, and ask specific questions about their list process (e.g., Is there a fee? How often should I check in?). Consider expanding your search to licensed family childcare homes in the Readfield area, as they may have more immediate openings. Being flexible with your start date can also improve your chances.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Readfield, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Readfield area, full-time childcare for an infant can range from approximately $180 to $240 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $160 to $220 per week. Family childcare homes are often at the lower end of this range, while centers are at the higher end. For financial assistance, Wisconsin's Child Care Subsidy Program (also known as Wisconsin Shares) is the primary resource for eligible families based on income, work, or school requirements. You apply through the Winnebago County Department of Human Services or your county of residence. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts, and you can use a Dependent Care FSA through your employer to pay with pre-tax dollars.
Are there any state or local programs in Wisconsin that help parents find and evaluate the quality of childcare near Readfield?
Yes, Wisconsin has a robust system for this. The primary resource is the **YoungStar** program, the state's quality rating and improvement system. Every licensed provider receives a YoungStar rating (1 to 5 stars). You can search for providers and see their ratings on the DCF Child Care Finder website. A higher star rating indicates higher quality in areas like learning environment, professional development, and business practices. For local, personalized help, you can contact the **Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency** for your region. For Readfield, this is likely the CCR&R serving the North Central region, which can provide free referrals, quality information, and guidance on choosing care.
What are some key questions to ask a potential daycare provider in rural Readfield regarding their policies for school closures, transportation, and communication?
Given Readfield's rural setting and potential for weather-related school closures, specific questions are crucial. Ask: 1) **Closures:** "What is your policy for severe weather (snow, ice) closures? Do you follow the Weyauwega-Fremont School District delays/closings?" 2) **Transportation:** "If my child is school-aged, do you provide transportation to or from Readfield Elementary? If not, what are the options?" 3) **Communication:** "How do you communicate with parents during the day (e.g., app, daily sheet)? How will you notify me immediately in case of an emergency, especially if cell service is spotty in some areas?" Also, inquire about their plan for early pickup if you commute to Appleton or Waupaca for work. Clear policies on these points are essential for rural family logistics.