The Best Daycare Centers in Stevens Point, WI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Stevens Point. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Stevens Point
Bright Horizons at Stevens Point
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Stevens Point is part of the nationally recognized Bright Horizons network, offering a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on school readiness. The center features age-appropriate learning environments with dedicated spaces for different developmental stages. Their World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through hands-on learning. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators, many holding degrees in education. Security features include keypad entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. Parents appreciate the consistent communication through daily reports and the center's focus on creating individualized learning experiences.
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Kiddie Korner Child Care Center
Kiddie Korner
Kiddie Korner Child Care Center has been serving the Stevens Point community for over two decades with a family-oriented approach to early childhood education. The center offers a balanced curriculum that combines structured learning with play-based activities, focusing on social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Their experienced teaching staff includes many long-term employees with specialized training in early childhood development. The facility features secure indoor learning spaces and well-maintained outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment. Kiddie Korner emphasizes nutritional wellness, providing healthy meals and snacks, and maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family events.
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Learning Ladder Child Development Center
Learning Ladder
Learning Ladder Child Development Center provides a comprehensive educational program that focuses on preparing children for academic success while nurturing their individual strengths. The center uses a research-based curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts. Their qualified teaching staff includes educators with bachelor's degrees and specialized early childhood certifications. The facility features modern classrooms with educational technology, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and secure access systems. Learning Ladder emphasizes character development and social skills, with programs that teach empathy, cooperation, and problem-solving. Parents consistently praise the center's engaging learning environment and the staff's dedication to each child's unique needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Stevens Point, WI
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Stevens Point, WI?
In Stevens Point, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $225 to $275 per week. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, averaging between $200 and $250 per week. In-home family daycare is often more affordable, averaging $150 to $200 per week. These costs are generally lower than the state average for Wisconsin, making Stevens Point a relatively affordable option. It's important to note that prices can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. Many providers in the area participate in the Wisconsin Shares child care subsidy program, which can help eligible families offset these costs.
How long are typical waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Stevens Point, and how can I secure a spot?
Waitlists in Stevens Point can vary significantly. For highly sought-after centers, especially for infant care, waitlists can be 6 to 12 months long. For toddler and preschool-aged children, waitlists are typically shorter, ranging from a few weeks to 3-4 months. To secure a spot, it's recommended to begin your search and get on lists as early as possible during pregnancy. Contact multiple centers, ask detailed questions about their list process (e.g., Is there a fee? How often should I check in?), and consider putting your name on lists at 2-3 different facilities. Utilizing the "Child Care Finder" tool on the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families website can help you identify all licensed options in the 54481 area and surrounding zip codes.
Are there any unique local resources or programs in Stevens Point to help parents find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, Stevens Point is served by the **Central Wisconsin Child Care Alliance (CWiCCA)**, a vital local resource. They do not provide direct childcare but offer referral services, parenting resources, and support for childcare providers. Additionally, the **Portage County Public Health Department** can provide information on licensed providers and health regulations. For evaluations, parents are encouraged to use Wisconsin's **YoungStar** quality rating system. This state program rates licensed providers on a scale of 1 to 5 Stars. You can look up any provider's YoungStar rating online to assess their quality based on education, learning environment, and business practices. The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point also sometimes has resources or student-led programs for families.
What are the licensing requirements and staff-to-child ratios for daycare providers in Stevens Point, WI?
All childcare centers and family daycare homes in Stevens Point must be licensed by the State of Wisconsin's Department of Children and Families (DCF). The strict state-mandated staff-to-child ratios are: for children aged 0-2 years, 1 staff for every 4 children; for 2-2.5 years, 1:6; for 2.5-3 years, 1:8; for 3-4 years, 1:10; and for 4-5 years, 1:13. Lead teachers in centers must have at least an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field, or a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. All staff must pass background checks and complete ongoing training in Shaken Baby Syndrome prevention and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) awareness. Local providers are subject to regular, unannounced inspections to ensure compliance.
Given the university presence, are there affordable childcare options associated with UW-Stevens Point for students or community members?
Yes, the **University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Child Learning and Care Center (CLCC)** is a high-quality, licensed facility that serves both university affiliates (students, faculty, staff) and community members. Priority is given to UWSP students, but community spots are often available, especially for preschool-aged children. The center is a 5-Star YoungStar rated program and offers a curriculum based on child development research. While costs are competitive with other local centers, UWSP students may be eligible for specific grants or subsidies to reduce their childcare expenses. It's a popular option, so interested parents should contact the CLCC directly to inquire about current availability and any specific enrollment procedures for community families.