The Best Daycare Centers in Gilbertown, AL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gilbertown. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gilbertown
Kiddie Kollege Early Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kollege is a highly-regarded early learning center located in nearby Butler, serving families throughout Choctaw County including Gilbertown. The center offers a comprehensive developmental curriculum with age-appropriate learning activities for infants through school-age children. Their educational approach focuses on hands-on learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness skills. The facility features secure classrooms, modern learning materials, and outdoor play areas. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and individualized attention each child receives.
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Childcare Network #108
Childcare Network
Childcare Network in Monroeville serves families from Gilbertown and surrounding areas with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social skills development. The center provides structured learning environments with qualified teachers who hold early childhood education credentials. Safety features include secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The facility offers nutritious meals and snacks through their food program and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Parents appreciate the consistent routines, progress reporting, and preparation for kindergarten transition.
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ABC Learning Center
Independent
ABC Learning Center in Thomasville has served families in Clarke and Choctaw counties for nearly two decades, including Gilbertown residents. The center provides a balanced curriculum that combines academic preparation with creative expression and physical development. Their program includes daily learning centers, group activities, and individualized instruction tailored to each child's needs. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, a secure outdoor playground, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. Staff members receive continuous training in early childhood best practices and maintain low child-to-teacher ratios. The center is noted for its family-oriented atmosphere and strong community reputation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gilbertown, AL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Gilbertown, Alabama?
In Gilbertown, as in all of Alabama, daycare providers must be licensed by the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) if they care for more than six unrelated children. Licensed centers and homes must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety training (including CPR/First Aid), facility safety, and nutritional guidelines. You can verify a provider's license status and review any compliance history through the Alabama DHR website or by contacting the local county DHR office in Butler County. It's crucial to choose a licensed provider to ensure state-mandated protections are in place for your child.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Gilbertown, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Gilbertown and the surrounding rural areas of Choctaw County, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than state or national averages, but options are limited. For an infant, you might expect to pay between $100-$150 per week at a licensed family childcare home. Center-based care, if available locally, may be slightly higher. Financial assistance is primarily available through Alabama's Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by DHR, which helps eligible low-income families. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts. It's advisable to contact the Choctaw County DHR office for the most current eligibility information and application process.
Given Gilbertown's small size, how can I find available daycare openings, and should I expect waitlists?
Due to the limited number of providers in Gilbertown, finding an opening can be challenging. There is no centralized listing, so the most effective method is to contact providers directly. Start by asking for recommendations from other parents, your pediatrician's office (which may serve a wider area), or local churches. You should also check with the Choctaw County School District for any pre-K or after-school programs. For in-home daycares, word-of-mouth is key. It is very common to encounter waitlists, especially for infant care. We recommend starting your search at least 3-6 months before you need care and getting on multiple lists if possible.
What types of childcare settings are most common in Gilbertown, AL?
Given its rural nature, Gilbertown primarily has licensed family childcare homes. These are private residences where a provider cares for a small group of children, often offering a more home-like environment and potentially more flexible hours. There are very few, if any, large commercial daycare centers within the town itself. Many families also rely on informal care arrangements with relatives, neighbors, or church members. For preschool-age children, the main structured option is often the public school's pre-kindergarten program (First Class Pre-K), which is highly regarded but has limited slots and specific age eligibility.
Are there any resources or organizations in Choctaw County that help parents evaluate and choose quality childcare?
Yes, a key resource is Alabama's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS), called "Alabama's Quality STARS." While not all providers participate, you can search the STARS directory online to see if any local providers have a quality rating (from 1 to 4 stars). The Choctaw County DHR office can also provide guidance. Furthermore, the Southwest Alabama Partnership for Training (SWAPT), which serves the region, may offer training to local providers, indicating a commitment to quality. For hands-on help, consider contacting the Family Guidance Center of Alabama, which may have resources or referrals for the area. Always schedule visits, ask for references, and observe the environment before enrolling your child.