The Best Daycare Centers in Calion, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Calion. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Calion
The Goddard School of El Dorado
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of El Dorado offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The center is known for its strong parent communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences, serving families throughout Union County including Calion residents.
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Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center provides a structured educational environment with a play-based curriculum that emphasizes early literacy, mathematics, and social skills development. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, age-specific learning centers, and nutritious meal programs. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with background checks and ongoing training in early childhood development. The center serves children from 6 weeks to 12 years old and is particularly noted for its small class sizes and individualized attention to each child's developmental needs, making it a popular choice for Calion area families.
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ABC Children's Learning Center
Independent
ABC Children's Learning Center offers a balanced curriculum that combines academic preparation with social-emotional learning. The center utilizes Creative Curriculum with focus areas in language development, cognitive skills, and physical development. Facilities include secure entry systems, modern classrooms with educational technology, and safe outdoor play areas. All teachers meet Arkansas state licensing requirements and participate in continuous professional development. The center is recognized for its strong kindergarten readiness program and flexible scheduling options, serving the broader Union County region including Calion with transportation services available for school-age children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Calion, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Calion, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Calion, as in all of Arkansas, childcare facilities must be licensed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety training, facility safety, and curriculum. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the "Check a Facility" tool on the Arkansas DHS website or contact the DHS Child Care Licensing Unit directly. It's highly recommended to always choose a licensed provider, as this ensures a baseline of safety and oversight. Unlicensed care is risky and not monitored by the state.
How much does full-time daycare typically cost for an infant or toddler in Calion, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Calion and the surrounding Union County area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $100 to $140 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $90 to $120 per week. These costs are generally lower than state and national averages due to the rural nature of the community. For families who qualify, financial assistance is available through the Arkansas Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which is administered by the Department of Human Services. Eligibility is based on income, work or school attendance, and family size. You can apply through the local DHS County Office in El Dorado, which serves Union County.
Are there many daycare centers in Calion, or will I likely need to look in nearby towns?
Calion is a very small city, so dedicated daycare centers within the city limits are extremely limited. Most parents in Calion utilize licensed family childcare homes (small, in-home providers) or expand their search to nearby larger communities. Your primary options will be looking for registered family homes in Calion itself or commuting to centers in El Dorado (about a 15-minute drive), which offers a wider selection of both centers and home-based providers. Networking with other local parents through community groups or social media is often the best way to discover available in-home care options in Calion.
What is the typical waitlist situation for daycare in the Calion area, and when should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers, especially for infant care, waitlists can be common even in this rural area. For the more sought-after licensed family homes in Calion or centers in El Dorado, it is advisable to start your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally 3 to 6 months before you need care. For infant spots, starting your search during pregnancy is not uncommon. When contacting providers, always ask about their current waitlist length, any fees to be placed on it, and how often they update families on their position.
What are some local resources or people I can contact to help me find and evaluate childcare options in Calion?
A key local resource is the **Arkansas Child Care Aware Referral Line**, which you can reach at 1-800-445-3316. This free service can provide a customized list of licensed providers in Calion and Union County. Additionally, you can contact the **Southwest Arkansas Community Development Corporation** or the **Union County Cooperative Extension Service** for potential leads and community support. For evaluating quality, beyond checking the DHS license, look for providers participating in the state's **Better Beginnings** quality rating system. Finally, don't underestimate the value of asking for recommendations from staff at the Calion City Hall, local churches, or the Calion Elementary School.