The Best Daycare Centers in Normal, AL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Normal. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Normal
The Goddard School of Huntsville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Huntsville offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development with low student-to-teacher ratios. All teachers are highly qualified with ongoing professional development, and the facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. The school serves families throughout the Huntsville metro area, including Normal residents, with extended hours and year-round programming.
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Primrose School of South Huntsville
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of South Huntsville provides Balanced Learning® approach combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their research-based curriculum includes character development, literacy, math, and science programs. The facility features secure environments with coded entry, dedicated age-specific learning spaces, and outdoor exploration areas. Staff maintain CPR and First Aid certifications with ongoing training. Located conveniently for Huntsville metro families including Normal, they offer flexible scheduling and comprehensive early education programs from infancy through school age.
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Children's Lighthouse of Huntsville
Children's Lighthouse Franchise Company
Children's Lighthouse of Huntsville offers a values-based curriculum emphasizing literacy, character development, and school readiness through their proprietary Smart Steps® program. The center features secure facilities with keypad entry, video monitoring, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their certified teachers implement structured daily schedules including phonics, math concepts, and creative arts. Serving the broader Huntsville area including Normal, they provide nutritious meals, extended hours, and comprehensive safety protocols with regular staff training and development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Normal, AL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Normal, Alabama, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In Alabama, all daycare centers and family childcare homes must be licensed by the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR). Licensing ensures facilities meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff qualifications. For Normal, which is part of the broader Huntsville metro area, you can verify a provider's license status and view any compliance history through the Alabama DHR Child Care Services Division website or by contacting the North Central Regional DHR office in Decatur. It's crucial to check this, as operating without a license is illegal, though some faith-based centers may be exempt but must still be registered. Always ask to see the current license during your tour.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Normal, AL?
In the Normal/Huntsville area, daycare costs are generally lower than the national average but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $130 to $180 per week for full-time infant care. For toddlers, the cost may range from $120 to $160 per week. In-home family daycare providers might offer slightly lower rates, around $100 to $140 weekly. Factors influencing cost include the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. It's advisable to budget for potential annual increases and inquire about what's included (meals, diapers, etc.).
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Normal, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to Normal's proximity to major employers in Huntsville and Redstone Arsenal, quality daycare centers, especially for infants, often have significant waitlists. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists at least 6 to 9 months before your needed start date, and even earlier if possible (12 months is not uncommon for popular centers). When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot, and how often they update the list. Exploring options in nearby communities like Huntsville or Madison may provide more availability.
What resources are available in Normal to help low-income families afford childcare?
Alabama offers financial assistance through the Child Care Subsidy Program administered by the DHR. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or attending school). Families in Normal can apply through the Madison County DHR office. Additionally, you may inquire if local daycare centers participate in the federal Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), which can help with meal costs. Some local churches and community organizations might also offer sliding-scale fees or scholarships; it's worth asking providers directly about any such options.
What are some key local factors to consider when touring a daycare facility in Normal?
Beyond standard checks, consider factors specific to the area. First, inquire about their severe weather and tornado safety protocols, as North Alabama is in a active weather zone. Ask about their transportation policies if they offer school pickup for older siblings from local schools like Providence Elementary. Given the region's growth, assess pick-up/drop-off traffic patterns. Also, many centers incorporate STEM activities due to the local aerospace and engineering culture; ask how this is integrated into their curriculum. Finally, check if outdoor play areas are shaded and cooled adequately for Alabama's hot, humid summers.