The Best Daycare Centers in Forrest City, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Forrest City. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Forrest City
Little Angels Learning Center
Independent
Little Angels Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility known for its nurturing environment and comprehensive educational programs. The center features a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates early literacy, mathematics, and social development activities. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development training. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, cleanliness, and the caring approach of experienced teachers who focus on individual child development milestones.
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First Baptist Church Preschool
First Baptist Church of Wynne
Located in nearby Wynne (serving the Forrest City area), First Baptist Church Preschool offers a faith-based early childhood education program with strong emphasis on character development and academic readiness. The curriculum balances structured learning with creative play, incorporating phonics, numbers, and social skills development. The facility features secure classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and outdoor playgrounds. Teachers are experienced in early childhood education and maintain small class sizes. The program is praised for its safe environment, qualified staff, and comprehensive approach to preparing children for kindergarten.
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Kids Kampus Learning Center
Independent
Kids Kampus Learning Center is an established childcare facility serving Forrest City with a focus on developmental appropriate practices and school readiness. The center implements a structured curriculum that includes literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. Facilities include modern classrooms, computer learning stations, and secure outdoor play areas. All staff members undergo background checks and receive ongoing training in early childhood education best practices. The center maintains excellent safety records and is known for its nutritious meal program, regular parent communication, and commitment to creating a stimulating learning environment for all age groups.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Forrest City, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Forrest City, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Forrest City, all childcare centers and licensed family childcare homes must be licensed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. The licensing process includes background checks for all staff, health and safety inspections of the facility, minimum training requirements in areas like CPR and safe sleep, and adherence to staff-to-child ratios based on age. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the Arkansas DHS website or contact the DHS Child Care Licensing Unit directly. It's crucial to ensure any provider you consider is currently licensed and in good standing, as this is your primary assurance of meeting state-mandated safety standards.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Forrest City, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Forrest City, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $110 to $150 per week, while toddler care may range from $100 to $135 per week. These rates are generally lower than the state average, reflecting the local cost of living. For financial assistance, the primary program is the Arkansas Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by DHS. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance requirements. You can apply through the St. Francis County DHS office in Forrest City. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Forrest City, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Waitlist availability varies by center, but it is common for the most sought-after facilities in Forrest City, especially those with strong educational programs or extended hours, to have waitlists, particularly for infant rooms. It is highly recommended that you begin your search and make inquiries at least 3 to 6 months before you need care. For infants, starting your search during pregnancy is advisable. When contacting centers, ask specifically about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot, and how often they update their availability. Exploring both center-based and licensed home-based options can increase your chances of finding timely care.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Forrest City beyond traditional daycare centers?
Parents in Forrest City have several options. Beyond licensed childcare centers, there are licensed family childcare homes, which offer a smaller, home-like setting often with mixed-age groups. Many local churches also operate preschool or Mother's Day Out programs, which may offer part-time care. For school-age children, the Forrest City School District may provide after-school programs. Additionally, in-home nannies or babysitters are an option, though they are not regulated by DHS unless they care for more than five children. It's important to note that part-time options can be more limited, so flexibility may be required.
What are some key local factors or questions I should consider when touring a daycare in Forrest City?
When touring facilities in Forrest City, ask specific questions about their storm safety procedures, given Arkansas's weather. Inquire about their policy for inclement weather delays or closures. Also, ask about their outdoor play space and how they handle hot, humid days. It's wise to ask about staff longevity and turnover, as a stable team is a good sign. Given the local community, ask about their engagement with Forrest City resources, like library story times or local parks. Finally, always check for visible licenses, inspection reports, and ask about their sick child policy to understand how they handle common illnesses in a community setting. Trust your instincts on the cleanliness and overall feel of the environment.