Children at daycare

38 Daycare Centers in Lawrence, Kansas

Browse all 38 daycare centers in Lawrence, Kansas. Compare options and find the right childcare for your family.

Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in Lawrence

Ranked using a weighted score that combines Google rating with the number of parent reviews — daycares with more reviews rank higher than those with a high rating but few reviews. Last updated: March 2026.

  1. 1
    Prairie Moon School
    4.6 score
    4.8(15)

    1853 E 1600 Road, Lawrence, KS · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 60 children

    Prairie Moon School is a Waldorf-based educational center in Lawrence, Kansas that receives universal praise from parents. The school emphasizes nature-based, screen-free learning with hands-on activities, outdoor play, and experiential education. Parents consistently highlight the caring teachers, strong sense of community, and their children's enthusiasm for attending.

    Screen-free curriculumnature-based learningexperienced and caring teacherswarm welcoming community
  2. 2

    1104 E 1000 Rd, Lawrence, KS · Before or After School Daycare · Capacity: 64 children

    Googols of Learning receives universal praise from parents, with all 10 reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents consistently highlight the caring, communicative staff, strong kindergarten preparation, and nurturing environment that helps children develop confidence and a love of learning.

    Caring and attentive staffexcellent communication with parentskindergarten readiness preparationsafe environment
  3. 3

    500 Rockledge Rd, Lawrence, KS · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 100 children

    Googols of Learning receives consistently high praise from parents who highlight the caring, communicative staff and nurturing environment. Parents report their children feel safe, loved, and well-prepared for kindergarten transitions. The center is noted for its research-based educational approach, healthy meals, and family engagement activities.

    Caring and attentive staffexcellent communication with parentssafe and welcoming environmentresearch-based learning approach
  4. 4

    1600 Haskell, Units 159 And 160, Lawrence, KS · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 28 children

    Community Children's Center at Edgewood is highly praised as a comprehensive family resource organization offering multiple services including free playgroups, parenting classes, a free clothing closet, and a developing Family Resource Center. Parents consistently highlight the caring staff, welcoming atmosphere, and genuine community support. The center is described as an invaluable resource for families with young children in the Lawrence/Douglas County area.

    free playgroupsResponsive Caregivers parenting classesfree clothing closetBook Nook
  5. 5

    925 Vermont, Lawrence, KS · Headstart Programs · Capacity: 60 children

    Community Children's Center is highly praised as an exceptional community resource offering free services and programs for families with young children in Lawrence/Douglas County. Parents consistently highlight the center's genuine care, helpful staff, and diverse offerings including playgroups, parenting classes, clothing closet, and a developing Family Resource Center. Families report feeling supported and grateful for the sense of community and accessible resources provided.

    Free clothing closetGrow and Go playgroupsResponsive Caregiving parenting classeswelcoming and caring staff
  6. 6

    2415 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS · Church Daycare · Capacity: 75 children

    Parents consistently praise FPC First 5 Years for its caring and well-organized staff who create a warm, calm environment where children thrive. Multiple reviewers highlight strong kindergarten preparation, excellent communication, and children's genuine enjoyment of attending. The director's personal attention to each child and flexible program options (Kids Day Out, extended care) are particularly valued.

    Caring and wonderful staffwell-organized environmentcalm atmospheredirector greets children by name
  7. 7

    5005 Legends Drive, Lawrence, KS · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 100 children

    Lawrence Montessori School receives uniformly positive feedback from parents who praise the caring, certified teachers and effective Montessori approach. Parents highlight their children's development of independence, academic skills, and enthusiasm for learning across all age groups from infancy through primary. The school's communication with parents and responsive leadership are consistently commended.

    Warm and caring teachersMontessori methodologychild development and independencedaily photo/activity updates via app
  8. 8

    940 New Hampshire, Lawrence, KS · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 43 children

    Lawrence Arts Center is highly regarded by parents for its diverse offerings including art classes, dance, music, theater, and exhibitions. Parents praise the quality instruction, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere that appeals to children and families of all ages. The center is described as a valuable community resource with engaging programming throughout the week.

    Excellent and knowledgeable staff and teachersdiverse class offerings (artdancemusic
  9. 9

    2104 Bob Billings Parkway, Lawrence, KS · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 33 children

    The reviews provided are about Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lawrence, Kansas, not the daycare center. Reviews praise the church's welcoming congregation, faithful biblical teaching, and community involvement, but do not evaluate the childhood center's daycare services.

    Friendly and welcoming congregationfaithful biblical preachingcommunity outreach programsADA accessibility
  10. 10

    708 Elm St, Lawrence, KS · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 58 children

    Elizabeth B Ballard Community Center receives consistently high praise from parents for its quality early education programs, caring staff, and comprehensive community support services. Parents highlight the warm, welcoming environment where children thrive and the center's exceptional ability to connect families with local resources and assistance. The facility is recognized as a valuable asset to the Lawrence community.

    caring and excellent teacherswarm and welco

Top Rated

Highest rated daycares in Lawrence based on parent reviews

Prairie Moon School

4.8(15)

1853 E 1600 Road, Lawrence, KS

Prairie Moon School is a Waldorf-based educational center in Lawrence, Kansas that receives universal praise from parents. The school emphasizes nature-based, screen-free learning with hands-on activities, outdoor play, and experiential education. Parents consistently highlight the caring teachers, strong sense of community, and their children's enthusiasm for attending.

Screen-free curriculumnature-based learningexperienced and caring teachers

Googols Of Learning Child Development Center At Wakarusa Valley Elementary

4.8(14)

1104 E 1000 Rd, Lawrence, KS

Googols of Learning receives universal praise from parents, with all 10 reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents consistently highlight the caring, communicative staff, strong kindergarten preparation, and nurturing environment that helps children develop confidence and a love of learning.

Caring and attentive staffexcellent communication with parentskindergarten readiness preparation

Googols Of Learning Child Development Center

4.8(14)

500 Rockledge Rd, Lawrence, KS

Googols of Learning receives consistently high praise from parents who highlight the caring, communicative staff and nurturing environment. Parents report their children feel safe, loved, and well-prepared for kindergarten transitions. The center is noted for its research-based educational approach, healthy meals, and family engagement activities.

Caring and attentive staffexcellent communication with parentssafe and welcoming environment

Community Childrens Center At Edgewood

5(7)

1600 Haskell, Units 159 And 160, Lawrence, KS

Community Children's Center at Edgewood is highly praised as a comprehensive family resource organization offering multiple services including free playgroups, parenting classes, a free clothing closet, and a developing Family Resource Center. Parents consistently highlight the caring staff, welcoming atmosphere, and genuine community support. The center is described as an invaluable resource for families with young children in the Lawrence/Douglas County area.

free playgroupsResponsive Caregivers parenting classesfree clothing closet

Community Childrens Center INC

5(7)

925 Vermont, Lawrence, KS

Community Children's Center is highly praised as an exceptional community resource offering free services and programs for families with young children in Lawrence/Douglas County. Parents consistently highlight the center's genuine care, helpful staff, and diverse offerings including playgroups, parenting classes, clothing closet, and a developing Family Resource Center. Families report feeling supported and grateful for the sense of community and accessible resources provided.

Free clothing closetGrow and Go playgroupsResponsive Caregiving parenting classes

First Presbyterian Church Preschool And Extended Day

5(7)

2415 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS

Parents consistently praise FPC First 5 Years for its caring and well-organized staff who create a warm, calm environment where children thrive. Multiple reviewers highlight strong kindergarten preparation, excellent communication, and children's genuine enjoyment of attending. The director's personal attention to each child and flexible program options (Kids Day Out, extended care) are particularly valued.

Caring and wonderful staffwell-organized environmentcalm atmosphere

Map

Daycare Centers in Lawrence, Kansas

There are 38 daycare centers in Lawrence, Kansas. Below you'll find a complete directory to help you compare and choose the right daycare for your child.

When choosing a daycare in Lawrence, consider visiting facilities in person, checking their licensing status, and asking about staff-to-child ratios, daily routines, and safety policies.

All Daycare Centers in Lawrence

Showing 38 results

Giving Tree Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1000 Kentucky, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 838-8366
Green Pastures Preschool And Parents Day Out
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
2211 Inverness Dr, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 312-2761
Building Blocks Day Care Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1411 E 1850 Rd, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 856-6399
Building Blocks After School
Before or After School Daycare
5
Address
1411 E 1850 Rd, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 856-6399
Community Childrens Center At Edgewood
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Community Children's Center at Edgewood is highly praised as a comprehensive family resource organization offering multiple services including free playgroups, parenting classes, a free clothing closet, and a developing Family Resource Center. Parents consistently highlight the caring staff, welcoming atmosphere, and genuine community support. The center is described as an invaluable resource for families with young children in the Lawrence/Douglas County area.

free playgroupsResponsive Caregivers parenting classesfree clothing closet
Address
1600 Haskell, Units 159 And 160, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 979-9781
Community Childrens Center INC
Headstart Programs
5

Community Children's Center is highly praised as an exceptional community resource offering free services and programs for families with young children in Lawrence/Douglas County. Parents consistently highlight the center's genuine care, helpful staff, and diverse offerings including playgroups, parenting classes, clothing closet, and a developing Family Resource Center. Families report feeling supported and grateful for the sense of community and accessible resources provided.

Free clothing closetGrow and Go playgroupsResponsive Caregiving parenting classes
Address
925 Vermont, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 842-2251
Lawrence Community Nursery School And Child Care Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
645 Alabama St, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 842-2006
Montessori Childrens House Of Lawrence
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1900 University Dr, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 843-3757
Stepping Stones Child Care Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1100 Wakarusa Drive, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 843-3591
First Presbyterian Church Preschool And Extended Day
Church Daycare
5

Parents consistently praise FPC First 5 Years for its caring and well-organized staff who create a warm, calm environment where children thrive. Multiple reviewers highlight strong kindergarten preparation, excellent communication, and children's genuine enjoyment of attending. The director's personal attention to each child and flexible program options (Kids Day Out, extended care) are particularly valued.

Caring and wonderful staffwell-organized environmentcalm atmosphere
Address
2415 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 842-2829
Giving Tree Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
1000 Kentucky St, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 843-3067
Prairie Moon School
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Prairie Moon School is a Waldorf-based educational center in Lawrence, Kansas that receives universal praise from parents. The school emphasizes nature-based, screen-free learning with hands-on activities, outdoor play, and experiential education. Parents consistently highlight the caring teachers, strong sense of community, and their children's enthusiasm for attending.

Screen-free curriculumnature-based learningexperienced and caring teachers
Address
1853 E 1600 Road, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 841-1880
Googols Of Learning Child Development Center At Wakarusa Valley Elementary
Before or After School Daycare
4.8

Googols of Learning receives universal praise from parents, with all 10 reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents consistently highlight the caring, communicative staff, strong kindergarten preparation, and nurturing environment that helps children develop confidence and a love of learning.

Caring and attentive staffexcellent communication with parentskindergarten readiness preparation
Address
1104 E 1000 Rd, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 856-6600
Googols Of Learning Child Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Googols of Learning receives consistently high praise from parents who highlight the caring, communicative staff and nurturing environment. Parents report their children feel safe, loved, and well-prepared for kindergarten transitions. The center is noted for its research-based educational approach, healthy meals, and family engagement activities.

Caring and attentive staffexcellent communication with parentssafe and welcoming environment
Address
500 Rockledge Rd, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 856-6600
Lawrence Montessori School
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5

Lawrence Montessori School receives uniformly positive feedback from parents who praise the caring, certified teachers and effective Montessori approach. Parents highlight their children's development of independence, academic skills, and enthusiasm for learning across all age groups from infancy through primary. The school's communication with parents and responsive leadership are consistently commended.

Warm and caring teachersMontessori methodologychild development and independence
Address
5005 Legends Drive, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 840-0955
Lawrence Arts Center Ps & Early Ccc
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5

Lawrence Arts Center is highly regarded by parents for its diverse offerings including art classes, dance, music, theater, and exhibitions. Parents praise the quality instruction, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere that appeals to children and families of all ages. The center is described as a valuable community resource with engaging programming throughout the week.

Excellent and knowledgeable staff and teachersdiverse class offerings (artdance
Address
940 New Hampshire, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 843-3278
Immanuel Lutheran Childhood Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5

The reviews provided are about Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lawrence, Kansas, not the daycare center. Reviews praise the church's welcoming congregation, faithful biblical teaching, and community involvement, but do not evaluate the childhood center's daycare services.

Friendly and welcoming congregationfaithful biblical preachingcommunity outreach programs
Address
2104 Bob Billings Parkway, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 842-2813
Elizabeth B Ballard Community Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2

Elizabeth B Ballard Community Center receives consistently high praise from parents for its quality early education programs, caring staff, and comprehensive community support services. Parents highlight the warm, welcoming environment where children thrive and the center's exceptional ability to connect families with local resources and assistance. The facility is recognized as a valuable asset to the Lawrence community.

caring and excellent teacherswarm and welco
Address
708 Elm St, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 842-2072
Childrens Learning Center INC
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
205 N Michigan, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 841-1218
Kidtopia Station
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
621 Monterey Way, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 832-2007
First Step At Lakeview Childcare Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.9

First Step at Lakeview is an addiction recovery treatment facility (not a traditional daycare) that receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from clients. Participants report the program effectively supports recovery, with staff providing compassionate care and practical tools for long-term sobriety. Many graduates credit the facility with transforming their lives and maintaining years of continuous recovery.

Caring and supportive staffeffective therapy and coping
Address
3015 W 31 St, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 843-3926
Hilltop Child Development Center INC
Child Daycare & Preschools
3

Hilltop Child Development Center receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with parents praising the quality of education, caring staff, and structured learning environment that goes beyond typical daycare. Parents report children develop strong language and social skills, experience low illness rates, and genuinely enjoy attending. The main drawback noted is a lengthy wait list with poor communication and prioritization for KU-affiliated families.

Excellent and caring teachersstructured learning environmentadvanced language and social skills development
Address
1605 Irving Hill Road, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 864-4494
Edna A Hill Child Development Center & Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3
Address
1000 Sunnyside, Dole Center, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 864-4349
Language Acquisition Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3
Address
1200 Sunnyside, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 864-4469
Princeton Childrens Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
2.6

Princeton Childrens Center receives highly polarized reviews. Positive reviews praise attentive staff, clean facilities, good communication, and well-cared-for children. Negative reviews cite significant concerns including staff unprofessionalism, safety issues, high turnover, poor management, and incidents of neglect.

attentive and caring staffclean classrooms and toysgood parent communication via app
Address
3340 Peterson, #100, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 749-9450
Prairie Park After School Program
Before or After School Daycare
Address
2711 Kensington Road, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 864-4494
Sunflower-Hilltop Before After School
Before or After School Daycare
Address
2521 Inverness Drive, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 864-4494
One Of A Kind Progressive Early Education
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
4640 W 27th, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 842-2089
Sunshine Acres Montessori School
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
2141 Maple Lane, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 842-2222
First United Methodist Church Early Childhood Programs
Church Daycare

The reviews provided do not appear to be from parents of daycare attendees, but rather from church members evaluating the worship experience. Reviews praise the music program and facilities, though engagement levels vary among members.

friendly and laid back atmospheregreat praise bandnice facility
Address
867 West Highway 40, Lawrence, KS
Phone
(785) 841-1303

Page 1 of 2· 38 results

Frequently asked questions

There are 38 all daycares in Lawrence, Kansas. Browse our directory to compare options and find the right fit for your child.
When choosing a daycare in Lawrence, consider visiting facilities in person and checking:
  • Licensing status with Kansas's regulatory agency
  • Staff-to-child ratios (requirements vary by age group in Kansas)
  • Safety measures and cleanliness
  • Daily routines and educational curriculum
  • Parent reviews and ratings
  • Location and hours that fit your schedule
Lawrence offers several types of childcare facilities:
  • Child Daycare & Preschools — 29 facilities
  • Headstart Programs — 2 facilities
  • Church Daycare — 2 facilities
  • Before or After School Daycare — 5 facilities
Each type serves different needs — center-based facilities typically offer structured programs, while head start programs are federally funded for low-income families.
Daycare costs in Kansas typically range from $200 to $400 per week for full-time care, depending on the child's age, facility type, and location within the state. Infant care tends to be more expensive due to lower staff-to-child ratio requirements. Contact individual facilities in Lawrence for current pricing.
Yes, daycare centers in Lawrence must be licensed by Kansas's childcare licensing agency. Licensed facilities are required to meet standards for safety, health, staff qualifications, and staff-to-child ratios. You can verify a facility's license status through your state's licensing database.