The Best Daycare Centers in Bexar, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bexar. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bexar
Little Angels Learning Center
Independent
Little Angels Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility serving the Bexar area from nearby Searcy. They employ a comprehensive early childhood education approach combining play-based learning with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum focuses on developmental milestones through hands-on activities, creative arts, and literacy development. All lead teachers hold early childhood education credentials and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The center features secure access controls, comprehensive safety protocols, and age-appropriate indoor/outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and individual attention given to each child's developmental needs.
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Kidz Karousel Learning Center
Independent
Kidz Karousel Learning Center provides quality childcare services to families in the Bexar region from their Heber Springs location. They implement a balanced curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academic readiness skills. The center features purpose-built classrooms with learning centers for math, science, literacy, and creative expression. Safety is prioritized with secured entrances, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. Their nutritional program provides balanced meals and snacks. The experienced teaching staff maintains Arkansas Early Childhood credentials and participates in ongoing professional development. The center is noted for its inclusive environment and strong parent partnerships.
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First Baptist Church Preschool & Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of Searcy
First Baptist Church Preschool & Child Development Center offers a Christian-based early childhood program serving the Bexar area from Searcy. Their educational approach integrates faith-based values with developmentally appropriate practices and early learning standards. The curriculum includes phonics-based reading readiness, mathematics concepts, and hands-on science exploration. The facility features modern classrooms, secure playgrounds, and dedicated infant and toddler areas. Staff members are CPR/first-aid certified and participate in continuous early childhood education training. Parents appreciate the structured yet nurturing environment, strong communication systems, and the center's commitment to whole-child development encompassing spiritual, cognitive, and social growth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bexar, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Bexar, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Arkansas, all childcare facilities serving more than five children must be licensed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. This includes centers and registered family homes in Bexar. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff training. You can verify a facility's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations by using the free online "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the Arkansas DHS website. It's highly recommended to choose a licensed provider, as this offers a baseline of regulatory oversight and may be required to accept state childcare assistance vouchers.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Bexar, AR?
Childcare costs in Bexar and surrounding rural areas of Arkansas are generally lower than the national average, but can still be a significant portion of a family's budget. For full-time care (5 days a week), you can expect to pay approximately $100 to $150 per week for a licensed family home daycare, and $120 to $180 per week for a childcare center. Infant care is typically at the higher end of this range due to lower staff-to-child ratios. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, snacks, curriculum). For financial assistance, Arkansas offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families; you can apply through the Bexar County DHS office.
Are there any state-funded pre-K programs available for 3- and 4-year-olds in Bexar, and how do they differ from private daycare?
Yes, Arkansas's Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) program provides free, high-quality pre-K education for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds from families with incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Availability in Bexar specifically depends on local school district partnerships or qualified childcare centers that receive ABC funding. These programs are educational-focused, follow state early learning standards, and employ teachers with specific credentials. They typically operate on a public school calendar (e.g., 6-7 hour days, closed summers). This differs from private daycare, which offers more flexible, year-round hours for a wider age range but may have a less structured educational curriculum. Contact the Bexar School District or local licensed centers to inquire about ABC slot availability.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Bexar, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
In a smaller community like Bexar, the number of licensed childcare slots can be limited, leading to waitlists, especially for infant care. Wait times can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the facility's capacity and the age of your child. To improve your chances, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or 3-4 months before you need care. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (if applicable) and to provide your needed start date. Follow up politely every 4-6 weeks. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family home providers in the area, as they may have more immediate openings.
What are some local resources for finding and evaluating childcare options in and around Bexar, Arkansas?
Your primary local resource is the **Arkansas Child Care Aware Referral Line**, a free service that can provide a customized list of licensed providers in Bexar and the surrounding counties based on your needs (hours, age, location). You can reach them at 1-800-445-3316. Additionally, the **Bexar County Cooperative Extension Service** may offer parenting workshops or have information on local programs. Don't underestimate local networks: ask for recommendations from other parents at community centers, your pediatrician's office, or local churches. Always schedule an in-person visit to any potential daycare to observe the environment, ask about daily routines, safety protocols, and meet the caregivers who will be with your child.