The Best Daycare Centers in Leighton, AL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Leighton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Leighton
The Goddard School of Muscle Shoals
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Muscle Shoals offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. All teachers are highly qualified with ongoing professional development, and the school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. They provide nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent communication through an app, and enrichment programs including yoga, music, and Spanish.
Daycare Services:
Rising Stars Learning Center
Rising Stars Learning Center
Rising Stars Learning Center provides comprehensive childcare services with a strong emphasis on early childhood development and school readiness. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills through hands-on learning activities. The center features secure facilities with surveillance systems, age-separated playgrounds, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing training in child development. The center offers flexible scheduling, nutritious meal programs, and regular progress reports to keep parents informed about their child's developmental milestones and achievements.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Florence
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Florence delivers balanced learning through their exclusive Balanced Learning® approach, combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, mathematics, and creative arts in a safe, educational environment. The school features secure entry systems, outdoor learning environments, and well-equipped classrooms with modern educational materials. Their teachers receive extensive training in early childhood development and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The school offers enrichment programs including music, physical development, and technology, along with healthy meals and regular communication with parents about their child's progress.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Leighton, AL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Leighton, Alabama, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Leighton, as in all of Alabama, daycare facilities are licensed and regulated by the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR). Licensed centers and family daycare homes must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and ongoing training), facility safety, health protocols, and curriculum. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the DHR's "Child Care Search" tool on their official website. It's highly recommended to always choose a DHR-licensed provider, as this ensures a baseline of safety and oversight. You can also contact the local DHR office serving Colbert County for additional verification.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Leighton, AL?
The cost of childcare in Leighton is generally more affordable than in larger Alabama cities but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from **$125 to $175 per week**. Toddler care may be slightly less, around **$110 to $160 per week**. In-home family daycare is often at the lower end of this range. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, snacks, formula, curriculum materials). For financial assistance, Alabama offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through DHR for eligible families; you can apply through the Colbert County DHR office.
Are there any state-funded pre-K programs available for 4-year-olds in Leighton, and how do I apply?
Yes, Alabama's voluntary First Class Pre-K program is available in Leighton through the local school system, typically at Leighton Elementary School. This high-quality, state-funded program is free for eligible 4-year-olds (and some 3-year-olds) but has limited slots and is not guaranteed. Enrollment is conducted via a statewide random drawing lottery system in the early spring. You must apply during the open registration period through the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education website or by contacting the Colbert County Board of Education. Due to high demand, it's wise to also have a backup plan with a private daycare or church-affiliated preschool.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Leighton, and when should I start looking for care?
Waitlists in Leighton can vary significantly. For the most sought-after licensed centers and the state Pre-K program, waitlists can be several months to a year long, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. For family daycare homes, availability may be more immediate but still limited. It is strongly advised to begin your search **at least 6-9 months before you need care**, and if you are expecting, to get on lists during your second trimester. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their waitlist process, any fees to hold a spot, and how often they update families on their position.
What are some local resources or organizations in the Leighton area that can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
Your primary local resource is the **Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) office for Colbert County**, located in nearby Tuscumbia. They maintain the official list of licensed providers. Additionally, the **Colbert County Schools Family Engagement Center** can provide information on school-linked early childhood programs. For referrals and personalized search help, you can contact the statewide **Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency**, 2-1-1 Alabama, by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting their website. They can provide lists of providers matching your needs, information on quality indicators, and details about financial assistance programs. Local community Facebook groups for Leighton and the Shoals area are also often used by parents to share personal experiences and recommendations.