The Best Daycare Centers in Henderson, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Henderson. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Henderson
The Goddard School of Jonesboro
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Jonesboro offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and character education, with daily communication to parents through their mobile app. The center emphasizes play-based learning while preparing children for kindergarten with structured academic components.
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Kiddie Academy of Jonesboro
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Jonesboro provides comprehensive educational childcare through their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and school readiness. The center features secured facilities with keypad entry, video monitoring, and strict safety protocols. Their degreed teachers implement age-appropriate lesson plans that include technology integration, music, and physical activities. The academy offers nutritious meals prepared on-site and maintains NAEYC-aligned standards for early childhood education. Parents receive regular progress reports and have access to real-time updates through the proprietary communication system. The program emphasizes social skills development alongside academic preparation.
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Kids Kingdom Learning Center
Independent
Kids Kingdom Learning Center is a locally-owned childcare facility serving the Northeast Arkansas region with a strong focus on Christian values and character development. Their curriculum combines academic preparation with moral education, offering age-appropriate learning activities from infancy through pre-K. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, modern classrooms, and outdoor play areas with safety surfaces. Their experienced teaching staff maintains Arkansas state certification and receives ongoing professional development. The program includes structured learning centers, literacy development, and hands-on activities that promote cognitive and social growth. Parents appreciate the family-like atmosphere and consistent communication about their child's progress.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Henderson, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Henderson, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Henderson, 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 providers caring for 6 or more children and all childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff background checks. To verify a facility's license, you can use the "Check a Facility" search tool on the Arkansas DHS website or contact the DHS Child Care Licensing Unit directly. It's highly recommended to confirm a provider's current license status before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Henderson, AR?
In Henderson and the surrounding rural areas of Arkansas, daycare costs are generally lower than state or national averages, but options are more limited. For a full-time infant or toddler, you can expect to pay approximately $100 to $150 per week. Family home daycares often fall on the lower end of this range, while licensed centers may charge slightly more. Costs can vary based on the provider's amenities, curriculum, and meal provisions. It's important to note that due to limited supply, some providers may have waitlists, so budgeting and planning ahead is crucial.
Are there any state or local programs in Henderson that help with childcare costs for low-income families?
Yes, the primary program is the Arkansas Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by the Department of Human Services. This state-funded program provides subsidies to eligible low-income families in Henderson to help pay for childcare at participating licensed or registered providers. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). You can apply through the local DHS County Office serving Baxter County. Additionally, some providers may offer sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly about financial assistance options.
What should I look for when touring a daycare or family childcare home in Henderson, given the rural setting?
When touring a facility in Henderson, consider both universal standards and local factors. First, ensure the license is posted. Observe cleanliness, safe outdoor play areas (check for secure fencing, especially given potential for wildlife), and ask about their emergency plans for severe weather common to North Arkansas. Inquire about staff qualifications and longevity—low turnover is a good sign in a small community. Ask how they handle communication with parents, as cell service can be spotty in some rural parts of the county. Finally, trust your instincts on the caregiver's warmth and the overall feeling of the environment.
How common are waitlists for daycare in Henderson, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Waitlists are common for the limited number of licensed daycare options in Henderson and the immediate Baxter County area. High-quality providers, especially those offering infant care, often have limited capacity. To secure a spot, start your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Contact multiple providers to get on their waitlists. Be flexible with your start date if possible. Building a relationship with a provider by checking in periodically (without being a nuisance) can also be helpful. Consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Mountain Home if you are willing to commute, as they may have more options.