The Best Daycare Centers in Cherokee, AL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cherokee. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cherokee
Kiddie Kingdom Daycare & Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kingdom Daycare & Learning Center is a highly-regarded local facility serving Cherokee and surrounding communities. They employ a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates early literacy, math readiness, and social-emotional development. All lead teachers hold Early Childhood Education credentials and maintain CPR/First Aid certification. The center features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the warm, family-like atmosphere and strong communication from staff. The center serves children from 6 weeks through school age with flexible scheduling options.
Daycare Services:
Little Lambs Christian Learning Center
Independent
Little Lambs Christian Learning Center provides faith-based early childhood education with a focus on character development and academic readiness. Their curriculum integrates biblical principles with state-aligned early learning standards. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs experienced educators with background-checked staff. Facilities include modern classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and a dedicated infant room with separate nap areas. The center is known for its strong community involvement and parent partnership programs, offering regular progress updates and family events throughout the year.
Daycare Services:
Tuscumbia First United Methodist Church Preschool
First United Methodist Church
Located approximately 15 minutes from Cherokee in Tuscumbia, this highly-rated church preschool serves families throughout Colbert County. The program focuses on school readiness through a balanced approach of structured learning and creative play. Certified early childhood educators implement a comprehensive curriculum covering literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies. The facility features bright, well-equipped classrooms, a large indoor play space, and secure, fenced playgrounds. Parents consistently report excellent preparation for kindergarten and exceptional teacher dedication. The center maintains all required state licenses and exceeds minimum safety standards.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cherokee, AL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Cherokee, Alabama, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Cherokee, Alabama, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR). Key requirements include background checks for all staff, specific child-to-staff ratios based on age (e.g., 1:6 for infants), health and safety inspections, and staff training in CPR and First Aid. To verify a facility's compliance, you can ask the provider for their license number and check their status directly on the Alabama DHR Child Care Services website or by contacting the local DHR office in Colbert County. It's also recommended to visit the facility in person to observe the environment and ask to see their most recent inspection report.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Cherokee, AL, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Cherokee and the surrounding rural areas of Colbert County, full-time daycare for an infant or toddler typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week. Costs can be slightly lower for preschool-aged children. This is generally more affordable than in larger Alabama cities like Huntsville. For financial assistance, Alabama's Child Care Subsidy Program (often called "welfare daycare") is available for eligible low-income families through the Colbert County DHR office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's advisable to apply for assistance early, as there can be waiting lists.
Are there many licensed in-home daycare options versus larger daycare centers in Cherokee, and what are the pros and cons of each?
Cherokee, being a smaller town, has a mix of both licensed in-home daycares (Family Child Care Homes) and a limited number of larger daycare centers. In-home daycares often provide a more intimate, family-like setting with mixed-age groups and potentially more flexible hours, which can be beneficial for shift workers in local industries like manufacturing or agriculture. Larger centers may offer more structured educational curricula and dedicated facilities. However, options for both are limited compared to urban areas, so availability is a key factor. It's crucial to ensure any in-home provider is DHR-licensed, as this guarantees they meet state safety and ratio standards.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Cherokee, and when should I start looking for care before I need it?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Cherokee, waitlists for desirable daycare spots, especially for infants, can be significant. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 3 to 6 months long, and sometimes longer for specific age groups. We strongly recommend that parents begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before your intended start date. Contact providers directly to inquire about their current list length and any deposit requirements to hold a spot. Being proactive is essential to secure care in this rural community.
What resources are available in Cherokee to help me find and evaluate local daycare providers?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare in Cherokee is the Alabama DHR Child Care Search website, where you can filter by location, age, and type of care. For local, personalized assistance, you can contact the Colbert County Department of Human Resources office. Additionally, word-of-mouth and community Facebook groups (e.g., "Cherokee, AL Community") are invaluable in a small town for getting parent recommendations and learning about smaller in-home providers. When evaluating, always schedule a visit, ask for references from current parents, and check for the provider's license, emergency plans, and their philosophy on discipline and learning.