Tia Sauls
Tia Sauls is an early education specialist who helps families and educators navigate the child care, early education, and K–12 landscapes.
Finding the right childcare provider is a major decision for a family, and St. Louis offers a variety of options that can fit different learning needs, ages, and family schedules.
When searching for childcare in St. Louis, you can choose from home daycares, childcare centers, preschools and Montessori programs to name a few. Childcare costs and availability can vary depending on your child’s age, the type of care you need and where you live.
In this guide, you will find out about childcare costs in St. Louis, the common program types, how waitlists work and gain a few tips to help you find the right provider.
What Types of Childcare Are Available in St. Louis?
St. Louis has several childcare programs available to you. To select the right one, you need to consider your child’s age, where you live, the type of environment you want your child to learn in and the kind of care your child needs to thrive. Here are common childcare options in St. Louis:
- Infant care
- Toddler care
- Preschool and Pre-K programs
- Licensed home daycares
- Full-time and part-time care
- After-school programs
The great thing about St. Louis is that you don’t have to worry about moving to a different part of the city for quality childcare. Providers can be found throughout St. Louis neighborhoods include, Central West End, Tower Grove, Shaw, Soulard, The Hill, Lafayette Square, and Downtown, as well as surrounding communities.
Average Cost of Childcare in St. Louis, Missouri
The cost of childcare in St. Louis is based on a few factors such as a child’s age, and whether you choose center-based or home-based care. It’s important to note that because infants typically require more individualized attention, infant care tends to cost more than care for older children.
Center-Based Care
- Infant care: $1,172 per month
- Toddler care: $1,072 per month
- Preschool programs: $968 per month
Home-Based Care
- Infant care: $798 per month
- Toddler care: $727 per month
- Preschool programs: $669 per month
Additionally, knowing the average cost of childcare in Missouri can help give you a broader idea of what to expect when searching for care in the state.
Childcare Waitlists in St. Louis
Childcare waitlists in St. Louis are used by providers to manage the demand for seats at their program. Due to the demand of childcare increasing, it is quite common to come across several programs that have waitlists for you to join before your child can be enrolled. With that in mind, not all program waitlists work the same.
Some providers may prefer to enroll children of a certain age first, or siblings of children who are already enrolled. Others may work on a first-come, first-served basis, while others may even charge a waitlist fee. Now it is always recommended that you add your name to multiple waitlists to safeguard your options. However, Winnie understands that waiting on a call back may not be ideal and you may need care as soon as possible, that is why, we highlight programs with immediate opening, when you use Winnie to find your care provider.
Overview of Childcare in St. Louis
Daycare and Early Learning Programs
With the variety of childcare options available in St. Louis, you will be pleased to know that there are several quality daycare and early learning programs, which aim to give your child the best learning experience possible.
Childcare Assistance
Childcare can become one of a family’s biggest expenses and that’s why there is childcare assistance in Missouri. Childcare assistance aims to help families by providing financial assistance to manage the cost of childcare.
Planning Ahead
Securing your child a spot in a high quality childcare program does take some planning. Get the ball rolling by starting your search well before you need the care, this gives you enough time to do as much research, compare your options and add your name to waitlists.
Finding Daycare or Preschool in St. Louis
Comparing childcare programs means considering more than location and monthly tuition. Here are a few common things families consider when finding a childcare provider to make sure they are the right fit:
- Schedule flexibility
- Tuition and additional fees
- Program type and learning approach
- Teacher-to-child ratios
- Parent reviews
- Meals and snacks
- Outdoor and indoor play spaces
While a program may have everything you want, taking a tour can help you see if it is the right environment for your child. Better yet, it also gives you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have. Having a daycare touring checklist or a checklist for touring a preschool can help you compile questions that can give you value answers.
What Makes St. Louis Childcare Unique?
Early Learning Programs
The St. Louis area supports families by giving children access to early learning programs like Head Start, which aim to help children develop fundamental skills such as reading and numeracy. All of which can help them transition to the next stage of their learning.
Preparing Children for School
Many programs in St. Louis understand that school readiness extends beyond academics. Therefore they include social-emotional development activities, communication, motor skills and physical wellness to their teaching approach. Giving your child a well rounded education.
Frequently Asked Questions About Childcare in St. Louis
Is there childcare assistance in St. Louis?
Yes, there is childcare assistance in Missouri that you can look into. Be sure to have a look through the criteria to know what you need to be able to qualify for assistance.
How early should I apply for daycare in St. Louis?
It is always helpful to start your daycare search and application process before you need care. Planning ahead gives you the opportunity to research providers, compare programs, tour facilities and join waitlists if needed.
Are part-time childcare options available in St. Louis?
Yes, there are part-time and full-time childcare options available in St. Louis to cater to families that need flexible care.
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