The Best Daycare Centers in Crossett, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Crossett. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Crossett
Little Angels Daycare & Learning Center
Independent
Little Angels Daycare & Learning Center is a highly-regarded local facility known for its nurturing environment and comprehensive early childhood education program. They implement a play-based learning curriculum that focuses on social, emotional, and cognitive development. The center features qualified early childhood educators with low teacher-to-child ratios, ensuring personalized attention. Facilities include secure indoor learning spaces, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated infant care rooms. Their program emphasizes literacy development, STEM activities for older children, and character building. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff.
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Crossett Kids Campus
Independent
Crossett Kids Campus offers a structured educational environment with a focus on school readiness and developmental milestones. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with hands-on learning activities and technology integration for preschool-aged children. The center employs certified early childhood teachers who provide individualized learning plans and regular progress assessments. Facilities feature modern classrooms, computer learning stations, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. The program includes nutritious meal service, extended hours for working parents, and enrichment activities like music and art. Parents consistently praise the center's communication and the staff's dedication to child development.
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Kidz World Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Hamburg (approximately 15 miles from Crossett), Kidz World Learning Center serves families throughout Ashley County with their comprehensive early childhood programs. They offer a research-based curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional learning. The center features state-certified teachers, small class sizes, and modern security systems including surveillance cameras and controlled access entry. Their facilities include dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, STEM labs for older children, and large outdoor playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment. The program emphasizes literacy development, mathematics readiness, and character education. Additional services include transportation for school-aged children and enrichment programs in foreign language exposure and physical education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Crossett, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Crossett, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Crossett, all childcare facilities caring for 6 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 minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff background checks. To verify a facility's license and compliance history, you can use the free "Check a Facility" tool on the Arkansas DHS website or contact the DHS Child Care Licensing Unit directly. It's highly recommended to check for any recent violations or probationary status. For smaller, registered family childcare homes (5 or fewer children), you can ask the provider for their registration certificate from DHS.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Crossett, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Crossett, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $110 to $140 per week. For toddlers, it's often slightly lower, around $100 to $125 per week. Family childcare homes may offer more affordable rates. These costs are generally below the state average, reflecting the local cost of living. For financial assistance, the primary program is the Arkansas Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) voucher, administered locally through the Area Agency on Aging of Southeast Arkansas, which serves Ashley County. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance. Additionally, some local churches or community organizations may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Crossett, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to the limited number of licensed daycare centers in Crossett, waitlists are common, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy if expecting, or at least 3-6 months before you need care. Popular centers may have waitlists extending 6-12 months. Don't hesitate to also contact registered family childcare homes, as they may have more immediate availability and offer a smaller, home-like setting that some parents prefer.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Crossett beyond traditional daycare centers?
Beyond the few licensed daycare centers, Crossett parents often utilize several alternative options. The most common are: 1. **Registered Family Childcare Homes:** Licensed for up to 5-10 children in a provider's residence, offering a home environment. 2. **Faith-Based Preschools/Parent's Day Out Programs:** Several local churches offer part-day, part-week programs, which can be combined with other care. 3. **In-Home Care (Nannies/Babysitters):** While less formal, some families hire individual caregivers. It's crucial to ensure they pass background checks. 4. **After-School Programs:** For school-age children, the Crossett School District and the Boys & Girls Club of Crossett provide after-school care with transportation from school. Exploring a combination of these options is often necessary to cover full-time needs.
How does the quality of local daycares compare, and are there any quality rating systems or accreditations to look for in Crossett?
While all licensed facilities meet state minimums, quality can vary. In Arkansas, the voluntary quality rating system is called **Better Beginnings**. A facility with a Better Beginnings rating (Level 1, 2, or 3) has met additional standards in curriculum, staff training, and learning environments. In a smaller community like Crossett, a center or home with this rating is a strong indicator of a commitment to quality. You can search for rated providers on the Arkansas DHS website. Also, ask about staff turnover (low turnover is good), the educational philosophy, daily routines, and opportunities for parent involvement. Visiting in person during operating hours is the best way to assess the environment and interactions.