The Best Daycare Centers in El Paso, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in El Paso. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in El Paso
Primrose School of Cabot
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Cabot offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes character development and life skills alongside academic preparation, with structured learning activities, music, art, and physical development programs. Located approximately 15 miles from El Paso, this nationally accredited facility serves families throughout the Central Arkansas region with high-quality early childhood education.
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KinderCare at Cabot
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Cabot provides comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features secure facilities with keypad entry, dedicated age-specific learning environments, and outdoor playgrounds. All teachers meet state qualification requirements and participate in continuous training. The program includes healthy meals and snacks, regular parent communication through mobile app updates, and developmentally appropriate activities that encourage exploration and learning. As part of the national KinderCare network, this center maintains high standards for safety and educational quality while serving the broader Central Arkansas community including El Paso residents.
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The Goddard School of Searcy
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Searcy implements the Goddard Learning F.L.E.X.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum, which promotes academic, social, creative, and physical development through play-based learning. The facility includes secure classrooms, multiple playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for STEM, art, and literacy. All teachers are qualified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes safety with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. Located approximately 25 miles from El Paso, this nationally franchised school serves White County and surrounding areas with high-quality early childhood education programs that focus on school readiness and whole-child development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in El Paso, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in El Paso, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In 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 includes centers, registered family childcare homes, and licensed family childcare homes in El Paso. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the Arkansas DHS website. For smaller, legally exempt providers (caring for 5 or fewer unrelated children), licensing is not required, but they must still register with DHS. Always ask to see a current license or registration certificate when touring a facility.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in El Paso, AR, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In El Paso and the surrounding White County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week, while toddler care may cost between $110 and $140 per week. These rates are generally lower than the state average due to the rural nature of the community. For financial assistance, Arkansas offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible low-income families, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or education requirements. You can apply through the White County DHS office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in El Paso, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed childcare facilities in a small town like El Paso, waitlists can vary but are common, especially for infant care. It's not unusual for popular centers or registered family homes to have waitlists of 3 to 6 months. We strongly recommend starting your search at least 6-9 months before you need care. Be prepared to get on multiple waitlists and check in periodically. For more immediate options, consider expanding your search to nearby communities like Searcy or Beebe, but factor in the commute.
What are the most common types of childcare settings available in El Paso, AR, and what are the key differences?
In El Paso, parents typically have three main options: Licensed Childcare Centers, Licensed Family Childcare Homes (in a provider's residence, for 7-16 children), and Registered Family Childcare Homes (in a provider's residence, for 6 or fewer children). Centers often offer more structured curricula and multiple staff, while family homes provide a smaller, home-like environment with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. Given El Paso's size, registered and licensed family homes are a very common and vital part of the childcare ecosystem. Another informal option is a legally exempt provider (caring for 5 or fewer children), who is not licensed but must still meet basic health and safety standards.
Are there any unique local resources or programs in El Paso or White County to help parents evaluate and choose quality childcare?
Yes, a key local resource is the **Child Care Aware® of White County** program, often facilitated through organizations like Community Connections (based in Searcy). They offer free referrals to licensed providers in El Paso and the county, and can help you understand quality indicators. Arkansas also uses a quality rating system called Better Beginnings. You can ask providers if they are participating and what their star level is (1 to 3 stars). Furthermore, connecting with other parents through local community Facebook groups (e.g., "El Paso, AR Community") or at places like the White County Library can provide invaluable firsthand recommendations and insights into local provider reputations.