The Best Daycare Centers in Cleveland, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cleveland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cleveland
The Learning Center at Rison
Independent
The Learning Center at Rison is a highly-regarded childcare facility serving the Cleveland area with comprehensive early childhood education programs. They employ a play-based learning curriculum combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on social-emotional development and kindergarten readiness. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, state-certified early childhood educators, and a secure facility with monitored access. Their program includes age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean environment, and excellent communication about child development progress.
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Primrose School of Benton
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Benton is a nationally accredited childcare center that serves families throughout Saline County and surrounding areas including Cleveland. They implement the exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with character development and life skills. The facility features secure entry systems, dedicated age-specific classrooms, and outdoor learning environments. Staff includes degreed early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes literacy, STEM exploration, and social development through their proprietary curriculum materials and assessment tracking system.
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The Goddard School of Bryant
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Bryant offers a premier early childhood education program serving families in the greater Saline County region, including Cleveland commuters. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on play-based learning across seven learning domains: creative expression, executive function, social-emotional development, literacy, mathematics, science, and physical development. The school features secure facilities with classroom observation systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated art and music spaces. All teachers meet or exceed state qualifications and participate in continuous professional development. The program emphasizes individualized learning plans and regular progress assessments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cleveland, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Cleveland, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Cleveland, 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 family home providers and childcare centers. Licensed providers must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety training, facility safety, and curriculum. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Check a Facility" search tool on the Arkansas DHS website or contact the DHS Child Care Licensing Unit directly. It's crucial to confirm licensing, as it ensures the provider meets the minimum state standards for your child's safety and development.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Cleveland, AR area?
In Cleveland and the surrounding rural areas of Bradley County, daycare costs are generally lower than in larger Arkansas cities but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately $100 to $140 per week for full-time care for an infant or toddler. Licensed family home daycare may range from $80 to $120 per week. These are estimates, and prices can depend on the specific services offered, such as meals and educational programs. It's important to note that financial assistance may be available through the Arkansas DHS Child Care Assistance Program for eligible families to help offset these costs.
Are there any state-funded pre-K programs available for 3- and 4-year-olds in Cleveland, and how do I enroll?
Yes, the Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) program provides state-funded pre-K for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds. In Cleveland and Bradley County, these programs are typically administered through the local school district or a partnering community-based organization. The Warren School District, which serves the area, may offer ABC classrooms. Enrollment is based on family income (at or below 200% of the federal poverty level) and other risk factors. To enroll, you should contact the Warren School District's early childhood coordinator or the Bradley County Cooperative Extension Service for guidance on application locations, deadlines, and required documentation, such as proof of income, age, and residency.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Cleveland, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of licensed daycare facilities in a small, rural community like Cleveland, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. Wait times can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the age of your child and the time of year. To improve your chances of securing a spot, it is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Contact all available licensed providers in Cleveland and nearby towns like Warren and Hermitage. Be proactive, follow up periodically, and consider being flexible with start dates. Also, explore licensed family home daycares, which may have shorter waitlists.
What local resources in Cleveland or Bradley County can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
The primary local resource for finding and evaluating childcare in Cleveland is the **Bradley County Cooperative Extension Service**, part of the University of Arkansas System. They often have information on local providers and community programs. For a comprehensive statewide search, parents should utilize the **Arkansas Child Care Aware Referral Line** (1-800-445-3316) or their online search tool, which filters by location, age, and type of care. Additionally, connecting with other parents through local community Facebook groups (e.g., "Cleveland, AR Community" or "Bradley County Talk") can provide personal recommendations and insights into provider reputations, which is invaluable in a small-town setting. Always cross-reference any recommendations with the official DHS licensing verification.