The Best Daycare Centers in Saukville, WI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Saukville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Saukville
Kiddie Academy of Port Washington
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Port Washington offers a comprehensive educational curriculum called Life Essentials® that focuses on character development, STEM learning, and social-emotional growth. The center features highly qualified early childhood educators with CPR and First Aid certification, maintaining excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-appropriate learning environments, outdoor playgrounds, and modern classrooms with interactive technology. Their program emphasizes literacy development, hands-on science activities, and creative arts, with nutritious meals provided daily. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, structured learning environment, and caring staff who create individualized learning plans for each child.
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The Goddard School of Grafton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Grafton provides a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic preparation with social development. The center employs degreed teachers who receive ongoing professional development in early childhood education. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The curriculum incorporates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities, foreign language exposure, and yoga/mindfulness programs. Facilities feature multiple playgrounds, dedicated art and music rooms, and technology-enhanced classrooms. Parents highlight the school's excellent communication through daily reports and the strong sense of community among families.
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Little Saints Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
Little Saints Childcare & Learning Center offers a faith-based educational environment combined with high-quality early childhood curriculum. The center features experienced educators with bachelor's degrees in education and specialized training in early childhood development. Their comprehensive program includes phonics-based reading readiness, mathematics foundations, science exploration, and character education. Safety protocols include secure facility access, comprehensive health and sanitation procedures, and emergency preparedness training. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks following USDA guidelines and offers extended hours to accommodate working families. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, strong academic preparation, and the dedication of teaching staff who build meaningful relationships with children and families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Saukville, WI
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Saukville, WI?
In Saukville and the surrounding Ozaukee County area, daycare costs are generally higher than the Wisconsin state average due to the county's higher cost of living. For full-time care (5 days a week), you can expect to pay approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per month for an infant, and $1,000 to $1,400 per month for a toddler. These rates are for licensed group centers; licensed family daycare homes may be slightly less expensive. It's important to note that costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. We recommend contacting providers directly for their most current rates and inquiring about any potential discounts for siblings or prepayment.
How can I find and verify licensed childcare providers in Saukville?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare in Wisconsin is the Department of Children and Families (DCF) "YoungStar" website and provider search tool. You can search specifically for Saukville and filter by type (family, group center), age group, and YoungStar quality rating (1-5 stars). All licensed providers in Saukville must meet Wisconsin's DCF regulations for safety, staff training, and group sizes. When you find a provider, you can view their licensing history, including any violations or complaints, directly on the DCF website. Additionally, the local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency for Southeastern Wisconsin, 4C for Children, can offer personalized referrals and guidance for parents in the area.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Saukville, and when should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant and toddler spots at highly-rated centers in Saukville and Ozaukee County, due to high demand and limited capacity. For infant care (children under 1 year old), it is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as your second trimester of pregnancy, or even earlier if possible. For toddler spots, starting your search 6-9 months before your needed start date is recommended. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee? How often should I check in? What is the typical wait time? Some smaller family childcare homes may have more immediate openings.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in the Saukville area?
For school-age children, the Northern Ozaukee School District (which serves Saukville) offers the "Kids Club" program, which provides before and after-school care at its elementary schools. This is a popular and convenient option for many families. Additionally, some local daycare centers and licensed family homes offer school-age care, including transportation to and from local schools like Saukville Elementary. The Ozaukee Family YMCA, located in nearby Port Washington, also offers school-age childcare programs that may include busing from Saukville schools. It's crucial to inquire about registration timelines, as these programs also fill quickly.
What local resources or financial assistance programs are available to help with childcare costs in Saukville?
Several state and county programs can help eligible families in Saukville. The Wisconsin Shares child care subsidy program is the primary state assistance program for low-income working families. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work requirements. You can apply through the Ozaukee County Department of Human Services. Additionally, the "Partner Up!" program in Ozaukee County may offer scholarships or sliding scale fees through participating providers. For military families, the Child Care Aware of America program may offer fee assistance. We recommend contacting 4C for Children or the Ozaukee County DHHS for the most current information and guidance on applying for these supports.
Childcare Insights for Saukville
Finding the right care for your infant is one of the most significant decisions you'll make as a parent. In a close-knit community like Saukville, Wisconsin, you want a place that feels like an extension of your family, where your baby is not just safe but truly nurtured. The search for "infant child care near me" here is about more than just proximity; it's about finding a trusted partner in these foundational early months.
When beginning your search in Saukville, it's helpful to understand the local landscape. Our community offers a mix of licensed in-home daycare providers and dedicated childcare centers, each with its own unique environment. A significant advantage in a town of our size is the strong network of parent recommendations. Don't hesitate to ask for word-of-mouth referrals at local spots like the community library, the Saukville Farmers Market, or even your pediatrician's office. These personal insights are invaluable and often lead to discovering a wonderful caregiver who may not have a large online presence.
As you evaluate options, consider the practicalities of our location. Think about your daily commute—whether you're heading south toward Port Washington or north toward Sheboygan—and how a provider's hours align with your schedule. Wisconsin's distinct seasons mean you'll want to ask about policies for snowy-day closures or late pick-ups during winter weather. Visiting a potential daycare is essential. Pay close attention to the cleanliness and safety of the space, but also observe how the caregivers interact with the infants. Are they engaging in gentle talk, responding promptly to cries, and offering plenty of one-on-one cuddle time? A low caregiver-to-infant ratio, which is mandated by the state but can vary, is crucial for ensuring your baby gets the attentive care they need.
Remember to verify that any provider you are seriously considering is licensed and in good standing with the State of Wisconsin's Department of Children and Families. You can easily check this online through the YoungStar quality rating system, which evaluates Wisconsin childcare programs. This system can give you a benchmark for the program's quality and commitment to early learning, even for our youngest residents. Trust your instincts during visits. Does the environment feel warm and calm? Do the other children seem content? Your comfort and peace of mind are paramount.
Finally, securing infant care often requires planning ahead, as spots can fill quickly, especially with the smaller group sizes required for babies. Starting your search early, even during your pregnancy, can alleviate stress. Finding the right infant childcare in Saukville is about building a relationship with caregivers who will celebrate your baby's first smiles and steps alongside you. It’s an investment in your child's well-being and your own, creating a supportive circle within our wonderful community.