The Best Daycare Centers in Hensley, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hensley. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hensley
Hensley Head Start Center
Community Action Program for Central Arkansas
Hensley Head Start Center provides comprehensive early childhood education through the federally-funded Head Start program. The center focuses on school readiness with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, and social-emotional development. All teachers meet Head Start qualification standards with degrees in early childhood education. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and provides nutritious meals meeting USDA guidelines. What sets this center apart is its holistic approach including family engagement services, health screenings, and parent education programs. The low student-teacher ratios ensure individualized attention.
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The Goddard School of Benton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located just 15 minutes from Hensley, The Goddard School of Benton offers a premier early childhood education experience with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and classroom cameras. All teachers are trained in early childhood development and the curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. The facility includes multiple playgrounds, a dedicated art studio, and technology-enhanced classrooms. Parents particularly praise the daily communication through the Goddard mobile app and the highly qualified teaching staff.
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The Learning Tree Too
Independent
The Learning Tree Too serves families throughout Saline County including Hensley residents with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes hands-on experiences and social development. The center maintains exceptionally low teacher-child ratios and all staff complete ongoing professional development in early childhood best practices. The curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with emphasis on literacy development, problem-solving skills, and creative expression. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility features multiple age-specific playgrounds, bright classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated spaces for art and music activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hensley, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Hensley, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Hensley, 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. This includes family childcare homes and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the free online "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the Arkansas DHS website. You can search by city (Hensley) or zip code and view any reported violations or commendations. It's a crucial first step for any parent to ensure their chosen provider operates legally and safely under state supervision.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hensley, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Hensley and the surrounding Saline County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $110 to $140 per week. These rates are generally more affordable than in larger Arkansas cities like Little Rock. For families needing financial help, the primary resource is the Arkansas DHS Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provides subsidies to eligible low-income families who are working, attending school, or in job training. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the Saline County DHS office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking.
Are there many daycare options with immediate openings in Hensley, or should I expect to join a waitlist?
Due to Hensley's smaller, community-oriented size, daycare openings can be limited and often fill quickly. It's common for the most sought-after licensed family homes and centers to have waitlists, especially for infant care. We strongly recommend starting your search at least 3-6 months before you need care. Don't limit your search to Hensley proper; consider expanding to nearby communities like Sheridan, East End, or Bryant, which may have more providers and shorter wait times. Being flexible with your start date and having a backup plan, such as a relative or a less formal in-home arrangement, is advisable while you secure a permanent spot.
What types of childcare settings are most common in Hensley—centers, church-based programs, or in-home providers?
Hensley primarily features licensed family childcare homes, which are a popular and personal option in smaller communities. These are typically run out of a provider's residence and care for a smaller group of children, offering a home-like environment. There are also a few licensed childcare centers, which may operate with more structured curricula and larger groups. Given the community's character, some parents also utilize faith-based preschool programs at local churches, though these often operate on partial-day schedules. For full-time, year-round care, the licensed family homes are often the most readily available and convenient option for Hensley residents.
Beyond basic care, what educational or developmental programs should I look for in a Hensley daycare?
Even in a smaller town like Hensley, many providers incorporate early learning. Look for programs that follow a recognized framework like the Arkansas Child Development and Early Learning Standards (CDELS). This ensures activities promote social-emotional, physical, language, and cognitive development. Ask providers about their daily schedule—it should include structured play, reading time, arts and crafts, and outdoor activity. Some providers may partner with state programs like Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) for pre-K, or participate in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program for nutritious meals. Visiting the facility and observing how caregivers interact and engage with children is the best way to assess the quality of the developmental environment.