From Nap Time to Numbers—What You Need to Know Before You Drop Off

In Kenya, day care is no longer a backup plan—it’s a vital part of modern parenting. Whether you’re a working parent in Syokimau, hosting guests with toddlers in Machakos, or managing a school in Kisumu, verified day care providers ensure safety, stimulation, and structure. This guide breaks down real costs, service types, regional trends, and how to hire trusted day care professionals through Balozy.

đź’° National Snapshot: Day Care Costs in Kenya (2025)

Service Type Cost Range (KES) Notes
Full-Day Care (8–10 hours) 8,000–25,000/month Includes meals, play, learning
Half-Day Care (4–5 hours) 5,000–15,000/month Ideal for part-time workers
Drop-In Day Care (per day) 300–1,000/day Flexible, pay-as-you-go
Infant Care (3–12 months) 10,000–30,000/month Includes feeding, diapering, naps
Toddler Care (1–3 years) 8,000–25,000/month Includes potty training, play
Preschool Prep (3–5 years) 10,000–35,000/month Includes ABCs, numbers, social skills
Weekend Day Care 500–1,500/day Optional for events or errands
Extended Hours (after 6pm) +500–1,500/day Based on hours and staffing
Special Needs Day Care 15,000–40,000/month Includes therapy support
Transport Services 2,000–6,000/month Optional add-on
Meals & Snacks Included or +1,000–3,000/month Based on menu
Holiday Camps (weekly) 2,000–8,000/week Includes activities and meals
Day Care + Tuition Combo 15,000–45,000/month Includes structured learning
Baby Sitting (home-based) 500–1,500/hour For evenings or emergencies
Day Care Subscription (multi-child) 15%–30% discount For siblings or long-term plans

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🏙️ City-by-City Breakdown

1. Nairobi

Kenya’s childcare capital—home to structured day cares, Montessori centers, and estate-based nannies.

  • Full-Day Care (e.g., Kilimani, Syokimau):
    • KSh 12,000–25,000/month
    • Includes meals, nap time, learning
  • Infant Care (3–12 months):
    • KSh 15,000–30,000/month
    • Includes bottle feeding, diapering, sleep tracking
  • Preschool Prep (3–5 years):
    • KSh 15,000–35,000/month
    • Includes phonics, numbers, social play

Balozy Tip: Nairobi providers often offer WhatsApp updates and CCTV access—perfect for working parents and estate managers.

2. Machakos

Affordable and expressive—Machakos day cares serve estates, schools, and short-stay builds.

  • Half-Day Care (e.g., Mlolongo, Athi River):
    • KSh 5,000–12,000/month
    • Includes snacks, play, nap time
  • Drop-In Day Care:
    • KSh 300–800/day
    • Ideal for errands, interviews, or emergencies
  • Weekend Day Care:
    • KSh 500–1,200/day
    • Includes meals and play

Balozy Tip: Many Machakos providers offer estate-wide packages—great for gated communities and short-stay hosts.

3. Mombasa

Coastal day care blends tropical routines, Swahili hospitality, and salt-resistant play zones.

  • Full-Day Care (e.g., Nyali, Bamburi):
    • KSh 10,000–22,000/month
    • Includes meals, nap time, coastal crafts
  • Holiday Camps (beach-themed):
    • KSh 3,000–8,000/week
    • Includes swimming, storytelling, art
  • Transport Services:
    • KSh 2,000–5,000/month
    • Includes pick-up and drop-off

Balozy Tip: Ask for coastal-experienced caregivers—humidity affects bedding, snacks, and nap routines.

4. Kisumu

Lake-side day care focuses on cultural pride, natural play, and guest-ready comfort.

  • Preschool Prep (e.g., Milimani, Manyatta):
    • KSh 10,000–25,000/month
    • Includes ABCs, Luo songs, social skills
  • Special Needs Day Care:
    • KSh 15,000–35,000/month
    • Includes therapy support and sensory play
  • Extended Hours (after 6pm):
    • KSh 500–1,500/day
    • Includes dinner and storytime

Balozy Tip: Ask for Luo-inspired songs and routines—perfect for legacy homes and cultural short-stays.

5. Eldoret

Known for spacious compounds and farm-friendly day care setups.

  • Infant & Toddler Care (e.g., Elgon View):
    • KSh 8,000–20,000/month
    • Includes feeding, naps, play
  • Day Care + Tuition Combo:
    • KSh 15,000–40,000/month
    • Includes structured learning and care
  • Sibling Discounts:
    • 15%–30% off
    • For families with 2+ children

Balozy Tip: Eldoret providers often offer generator-friendly setups—ask for rural packages and travel rates.

🧒🏽 What’s Included in Day Care Services?

Service Element Included? Notes
Meals & Snacks ✅/❌ Often included or optional add-on
Nap Time & Hygiene âś… Includes diapering, handwashing
Learning Activities âś… ABCs, numbers, songs, crafts
Outdoor Play âś… Weather-permitting
WhatsApp Updates âś… Available for most Balozy pros
Safety & PPE âś… Clean uniforms, masks, sanitizers
Emergency Contact Logs âś… Required for all verified centers
CCTV Access ✅/❌ Optional for premium centers
Transport Services ✅/❌ Optional add-on
Special Needs Support ✅/❌ Available at select centers
Holiday Camps ✅/❌ Optional during school breaks

Balozy Tip: Always confirm caregiver-to-child ratio, menu, and emergency protocol before booking.

🧠 What Affects Day Care Costs?

âś… Age Group

  • Infants require more attention and hygiene
  • Preschoolers need structured learning

âś… Location

  • Nairobi and Mombasa rates are higher
  • Transport to rural areas adds KSh 500–2,000

âś… Hours & Schedule

  • Full-day and extended hours cost more
  • Drop-in care offers flexibility

âś… Services Offered

  • Meals, transport, and learning programs raise costs

âś… Occasion Type

  • Holiday camps and weekend care may require premium packages

đź’ˇ Smart Ways to Save on Day Care

  1. Use Verified Balozy Providers: Compare ratings, caregiver ratios, and parent reviews
  2. Bundle Services: Combine day care, transport, and meals for discounts
  3. Choose Local Talent: Hiring within your estate reduces transport fees
  4. Book Early: Term slots and holiday camps fill up fast
  5. Ask for WhatsApp Estimates: Avoid surprises with clear scope and pricing