The Best Daycare Centers in Delaware, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Delaware. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Delaware
KinderCare Learning Center at Fort Smith
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare Learning Center at Fort Smith is a highly-regarded facility serving the Delaware area with a comprehensive, play-based curriculum that emphasizes early literacy, math, and social-emotional development. Staffed by qualified teachers with CPR and First Aid certifications, the center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and features secure entry systems, daily safety checks, and nutritious meal programs. Parents praise its engaging learning environments, including age-appropriate classrooms and outdoor play areas, and its focus on individualized developmental tracking. The center is part of the national KinderCare network, ensuring consistent quality and extensive resources for children from infancy through school age.
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The Goddard School of Fort Smith
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Fort Smith offers a premier early childhood education program serving Delaware and surrounding areas, with a F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that blends academic readiness with creative play. The school employs degreed educators and emphasizes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) activities, language development, and character building. Safety is paramount, featuring secured perimeters, regular drills, and hygienic facilities. Parents highlight the school's strong communication, inclusive atmosphere, and well-equipped indoor and outdoor spaces that foster curiosity and growth. Its accreditation and high parent satisfaction make it a top choice for families seeking a structured yet nurturing environment.
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Paris Early Learning Academy
Independent
Paris Early Learning Academy is a locally-owned center known for its personalized care and strong community ties, serving Delaware and Logan County with a balanced curriculum that integrates Montessori-inspired activities and Arkansas Early Learning Standards. The facility features small class sizes, certified early childhood educators, and a focus on holistic development through hands-on learning, music, and outdoor exploration. Safety measures include video monitoring, background-checked staff, and allergy-aware meal plans. Parents appreciate the warm, family-like environment, regular progress updates, and flexible scheduling options. Its commitment to fostering independence and school readiness in a safe, stimulating setting has earned it consistent high ratings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Delaware, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Delaware, AR, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Delaware, 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. Licensed providers must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), health and safety protocols, and facility requirements. To verify a daycare's license 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 providers to ensure your child's safety and a regulated standard of care.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Delaware, AR?
The cost of childcare in Delaware and the surrounding rural areas of Arkansas is generally lower than the state average, but it varies by provider type. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $100 to $140 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. In-home family childcare may range from $80 to $120 per week. These are estimates, and prices can differ based on the program's amenities, hours, and whether meals are included. It's important to note that Arkansas offers financial assistance through the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Are there any state-funded pre-K programs available for 3- and 4-year-olds in Delaware, AR?
Yes, Arkansas's Better Chance (ABC) program provides state-funded pre-K for eligible 4-year-olds, and in some cases, 3-year-olds, in high-quality settings. Availability in a small town like Delaware may be limited and is typically offered through the local public school district or a partnering licensed childcare center. You should contact the **Delaware School District** or the **Southwest Arkansas Education Cooperative** to inquire about ABC program availability, enrollment periods, and income-based eligibility requirements. These programs focus on school readiness and can be an excellent, cost-effective childcare option.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in the Delaware area, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of licensed childcare providers in small rural communities like Delaware, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. Wait times can range from a few weeks to several months. To improve your chances, start your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy. Contact all local licensed centers and family homes to get on their interest lists. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist or registration fee to hold a spot. It's also wise to have a backup plan, such as a licensed family childcare home in a neighboring town like Dierks or Wickes, which may have shorter wait times.
What are the key health and safety regulations I should look for when touring a daycare in Delaware?
When touring a facility, look for clear evidence of Arkansas DHS compliance. Key items include: posted licenses and inspection reports; secure entrances where visitors must be screened; clean and age-appropriate toys/equipment; safe sleep practices for infants (cribs, no loose bedding); properly stored medications and cleaning supplies; and fenced, safe outdoor play areas. Also, ask about their sick child policy, immunization requirements for staff and children, and their emergency preparedness plan for events like severe weather, which is common in Arkansas. A reputable provider will be transparent about these policies and proud to show you their compliance.