The Best Daycare Centers in Caraway, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Caraway. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Caraway
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is Caraway's premier local childcare facility, offering comprehensive early childhood education programs in a nurturing, home-like environment. The center features a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy development, social-emotional learning, and hands-on exploration. Certified early childhood educators provide individualized attention with low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility includes secure indoor learning spaces, age-appropriate outdoor playgrounds, and modern safety systems. Parents consistently praise the center's family-oriented approach, nutritious meal program, and strong communication about child development milestones.
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Kiddie Kottage of Jonesboro
Independent
Serving families throughout Northeast Arkansas including Caraway, Kiddie Kottage provides exceptional early childhood education with a focus on school readiness. The center implements the Creative Curriculum system, blending structured learning with play-based activities. Features include certified teachers with early childhood degrees, secure entry systems, daily progress reports, and developmental assessments. The facility offers spacious classrooms, multiple outdoor play areas, and enrichment programs in music and movement. Parents highlight the experienced staff, clean environment, and strong academic preparation for kindergarten transition.
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The Learning Tree Child Development Center
Independent
The Learning Tree serves families across Craighead County including Caraway residents, offering a comprehensive educational program that balances academic preparation with social development. The center utilizes a structured curriculum aligned with Arkansas Early Learning Standards, featuring literacy-rich environments, STEM activities, and character education. Qualified early childhood professionals maintain small class sizes and individualized learning plans. Safety features include secured access, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness protocols. The center is noted for its engaging learning centers, family involvement opportunities, and consistent communication through daily reports and parent conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Caraway, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Caraway, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Caraway, Arkansas, all childcare facilities serving six or more children must be licensed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. This licensing ensures they meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, and training. Smaller in-home providers caring for 5 or fewer children may be registered but are not required to be licensed. To verify a facility's status, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the Arkansas DHS website or contact the DHS Child Care Licensing Unit directly. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed facilities, as they undergo regular inspections and are required to follow strict state regulations to ensure your child's safety and well-being.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Caraway, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In the Caraway area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $110 to $140 per week. For toddlers, the cost may be slightly lower, around $100 to $125 per week. These rates are generally lower than state and national averages, reflecting the cost of living in rural Craighead County. For financial assistance, the primary program is the Arkansas Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by DHS, which provides subsidies to eligible low-income working families, those in education/training programs, or families receiving protective services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the Craighead County DHS office in Jonesboro. Some local churches or community organizations may also offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools in Caraway that offer educational or pre-K curriculum, or will I need to look in nearby cities?
Options within the city limits of Caraway are limited, as it is a small rural community. You will likely find more in-home daycare providers than large centers. For structured preschool or pre-K curriculum, parents often look to neighboring cities like Jonesboro (about a 25-minute drive). However, it's worth inquiring with any licensed in-home providers in Caraway if they incorporate early learning activities. Additionally, the Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) program provides free, high-quality pre-K to eligible 3- and 4-year-olds, but these programs are typically located in public schools or dedicated centers in larger towns. The closest ABC programs would be in the Jonesboro or Lake City school districts. For infants and toddlers, educational programming within Caraway itself will be more basic and play-based.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Caraway, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to the limited number of licensed providers in a small town like Caraway, waitlists can be unpredictable but are often a reality. For the few dedicated daycare homes or any sought-after providers, waitlists can range from a few months to over a year, especially for infant spots which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as soon as you know you are expecting, or at least 6-12 months before your needed start date. Be proactive: contact all licensed providers in the area, ask detailed questions about their current capacity and list, and consider putting your name on multiple lists. Exploring options in nearby Jonesboro can provide more alternatives and potentially shorter wait times, though it involves a commute.
What should I look for and ask about during a tour of a potential daycare home or facility in Caraway?
When touring a daycare in Caraway, go beyond the basics. First, confirm their Arkansas DHS license is current and posted. Observe the environment: Is it clean, safe, and well-organized? Are there age-appropriate toys and books? Ask about the daily schedule, nap procedures, and meal provisions. Crucially, inquire about staff qualifications, turnover, and the specific caregiver who will be with your child. Ask for their policy on sick children, emergency procedures, and how they communicate with parents (daily sheets, apps, etc.). Given the rural setting, ask about outdoor play space and safety. Request references from current parents. Trust your instincts about the caregiver's warmth and interaction with the children. A good provider will be transparent and welcome your questions.