The Best Daycare Centers in Gilmore, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gilmore. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gilmore
Growing God's Way Learning Center
Growing God's Way Learning Center
Growing God's Way Learning Center is a highly-regarded Christian-based childcare facility located approximately 15 minutes from Gilmore. They offer a comprehensive educational program that integrates faith-based learning with academic preparation. The center features age-appropriate classrooms, secure facilities with controlled access, and a structured curriculum that includes literacy development, math readiness, and social skills. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development. The center emphasizes character development alongside academic learning, with nutritious meals provided and regular parent communication through digital platforms.
Daycare Services:
Kidz Harbor Learning Center
Kidz Harbor Learning Center
Kidz Harbor Learning Center serves the Gilmore area with a focus on developmental appropriate practices and individualized learning. Their curriculum includes STEAM activities, language development, and social-emotional learning components. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms with educational technology, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. Teachers maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and participate in continuous training. The center offers extended hours to accommodate working families and provides daily progress reports to parents. Their safety protocols include regular drills and comprehensive background checks for all staff.
Daycare Services:
First Baptist Church Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of Blytheville
First Baptist Church Child Development Center provides quality early childhood education with a Christian foundation, serving families in Gilmore and surrounding communities. Their program balances academic preparation with spiritual development through Bible stories, prayer, and Christian values. The center features purpose-built classrooms, secure playgrounds, and a structured daily schedule that includes circle time, learning centers, and creative activities. Staff members are highly qualified with degrees in early childhood education and regular professional development. The center maintains excellent safety records with secure facilities, health protocols, and nutritious meal programs meeting state guidelines.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gilmore, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Gilmore, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Gilmore, Arkansas, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. This includes family home daycares (serving 5-16 children) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the free online "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the Arkansas DHS website. You can search by city (Gilmore), county (Crittenden), or provider name to see their current license type, any history of non-compliance, and their quality rating if they participate in the Better Beginnings program. It's a crucial first step for any parent.
Are there any state or local financial assistance programs available to help with daycare costs in Gilmore?
Yes, the primary program is the Arkansas Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by DHS. Eligibility is based on family income, household size, and need (such as employment or attending school). Given Gilmore's location in Crittenden County, which has a lower median income than the state average, many local families may qualify. You apply through the Crittenden County DHS office. Additionally, some local daycare centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. It's also worth inquiring if any providers participate in the Arkansas Better Beginnings program, as a higher rating can sometimes correlate with more support options. Always ask providers directly about any available payment plans or discounts.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant and toddler daycare in Gilmore, and are waitlists common?
In Gilmore and the surrounding Crittenden County area, daycare costs are generally more affordable than in larger Arkansas cities like Little Rock or Fayetteville. For full-time care, you can expect to pay approximately $100-$150 per week for a licensed family home daycare and $120-$180 per week for a childcare center. Infant care is typically at the higher end of this range due to lower staff-to-child ratios. Waitlists can be common, especially for infant spots and at highly-rated Better Beginnings facilities. Given Gilmore's smaller size and limited number of providers, it's advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists at least 3-6 months before you need care, if possible.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in a small town like Gilmore, Arkansas?
Gilmore, being a small community, primarily offers two types of licensed childcare: Family Child Care Homes and Childcare Centers. Family homes are often run by a single provider in their residence and can offer a more intimate, home-like setting for a smaller group of children. There are also likely a few local church-affiliated or privately-run childcare centers. Due to the rural nature, you may find fewer large, corporate chain facilities. Many parents in the area also utilize legally unregistered "relative care" or small in-home providers caring for fewer than 5 children, which are not required to be licensed. For licensed options, you may need to look at nearby towns like West Memphis or Marion for a wider selection of centers.
What should I look for during an in-person visit to a daycare in Gilmore, and are there any local-specific questions I should ask?
During a visit, observe cleanliness, child engagement, and staff interactions. Check for secure entrances and safe outdoor play areas. Specifically for Gilmore, ask about their plan for severe weather, given Arkansas's tornado risk. Inquire about their transportation policies if they offer school pick-up for older siblings from local schools like Armorel School District. Ask about their participation in the Arkansas Better Beginnings quality rating system. Also, given the agricultural surroundings, ask if they have policies regarding pesticides or if children visit local farms. Finally, ask about their community connections—do they take walks, visit the local library, or participate in town events? This can indicate how they integrate the local environment into their program.