The Best Daycare Centers in Higginson, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Higginson. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Higginson
The Goddard School of Searcy
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Searcy offers a premier early childhood education program with a comprehensive FLEX Learning Program that balances academic learning with creative play. Their play-based curriculum focuses on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) learning, with daily activities that promote cognitive, social, and emotional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers are highly qualified with early childhood education backgrounds and participate in ongoing professional development. The school maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and provides regular parent communication through daily reports and a proprietary mobile app.
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Little Blessings Childcare Center
Independent
Little Blessings Childcare Center provides a nurturing Christian environment with a strong emphasis on character development and academic readiness. Their curriculum incorporates Abeka and other developmentally appropriate materials, focusing on literacy, numeracy, and social skills. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, age-separated playgrounds, and modern learning environments. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing training in early childhood development. The center is known for its family-oriented atmosphere, nutritious meal program, and comprehensive safety protocols including regular security drills and health screenings.
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Kids Kingdom Learning Center
Independent
Kids Kingdom Learning Center offers a well-rounded early education program with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes social, emotional, and academic development. Their curriculum includes daily structured activities in literacy, math, science, and creative arts, along with ample outdoor playtime. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers, and spacious playgrounds with safety surfaces. Teachers are experienced early childhood educators with ongoing professional development requirements. The center is praised for its clean facilities, consistent communication with parents, and affordable pricing structure while maintaining high-quality care standards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Higginson, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Higginson, AR, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Higginson, 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 family childcare homes and center-based programs. Licensed providers must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, health and safety inspections, background checks for employees, and ongoing training. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the "Check a Facility" search tool on the Arkansas DHS website or contact the DHS Child Care Licensing Unit directly. Given Higginson's small size, many options might be registered family childcare homes (serving 5 or fewer children), which have a different, less intensive registration process. Always ask to see the current license or registration certificate.
How much does full-time daycare typically cost for an infant or toddler in Higginson, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Higginson and the surrounding White County area, daycare costs are generally lower than state or national averages, but prices vary. For a full-time infant, you might expect to pay between $100 to $140 per week at a licensed family home, and potentially $120 to $170 per week at a center-based facility. Toddler care is often slightly less. A key resource for financial assistance 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 White County DHS office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
Given Higginson's small size, how can I find available daycare openings, and should I expect to be on a waitlist?
Due to Higginson's limited number of providers, finding immediate openings can be challenging. It's advisable to start your search early, ideally several months before you need care. The best ways to find availability are to: 1) Use the Arkansas DHS online "Child Care Finder" map, filtering for Higginson (72131) and surrounding areas like Searcy or Judsonia. 2) Ask for recommendations from local parents at community hubs like the Higginson Post Office or through local Facebook groups (e.g., "Higginson, AR Community"). 3) Contact providers directly by phone. Waitlists are common, especially for infant care, so be prepared to get on multiple lists. Expanding your search to nearby towns may increase your options.
What are the common operating hours for daycare centers and home-based providers in Higginson, and is after-hours or emergency care available?
Most licensed daycare providers in Higginson operate on a standard schedule, typically from around 6:30 or 7:00 AM to 5:30 or 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday, to accommodate common work hours. However, due to the rural and small-town nature of the community, flexible or extended hours are less common than in larger cities. Very few, if any, providers offer regular overnight, weekend, or late evening care. For occasional after-hours or emergency needs, parents often rely on family, trusted neighbors, or private babysitters found through local networks. It's crucial to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront with any potential provider, as their hours may be strict.
Are there any state-funded pre-K programs or early learning initiatives available for 3- and 4-year-olds in Higginson?
Yes, there are important early learning options. The Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) program is the state's publicly funded pre-K initiative for at-risk 3- and 4-year-olds. While Higginson itself may not host an ABC classroom, eligible families in Higginson can often access these programs in the neighboring and larger city of Searcy, which is part of the same school district (Searcy School District). The Searcy district typically operates ABC classrooms in specific elementary schools. Eligibility is based on family income and other risk factors. Additionally, many local daycare providers incorporate early learning curricula, and some may participate in the Arkansas Better Beginnings quality rating system, which you can look for when choosing a program.
Childcare Insights for Higginson
Finding quality care for your baby is one of the most significant decisions you'll make as a parent in Higginson. The search for "infant daycare near me" is about so much more than just location; it's about finding a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where your little one can thrive while you're at work. In our close-knit White County community, this often means looking at options both within our town and in the surrounding areas like Searcy, Beebe, and Judsonia, understanding that the perfect fit might be just a short drive down Highway 367 or 64.
When beginning your search here in Higginson, it's important to consider the unique rhythm of our area. Many parents commute to Searcy for work or medical appointments, making a daycare along that route a practical consideration. Start by asking for personal recommendations from neighbors at the Higginson Post Office or fellow parents at the city park. Local word-of-mouth is invaluable. Then, expand your search to licensed childcare providers and centers in White County. The Arkansas Department of Human Services Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education maintains a searchable online database of licensed facilities, which is an essential tool for verifying credentials and inspection records.
As you evaluate potential daycares, pay close attention to the caregiver-to-infant ratio. A quality program for babies will have a low ratio, ensuring your child gets plenty of individual attention. Don't hesitate to ask about staff turnover during your visit; consistency is crucial for an infant forming their first attachments outside the home. Inquire about their daily routines for feeding, diapering, and napping, and see if their philosophy aligns with your own. Notice if the caregivers are on the floor engaging with the babies, talking and singing to them, which is vital for early development.
A visit is non-negotiable. Schedule a time to tour the facility, and trust your instincts. Look for a clean, safe, and cheerful environment. Are there age-appropriate toys and soft spaces for tummy time? Is the outdoor area secure, even if it's for when your infant grows into a toddler? Ask about their policies for illness and communication; a good center will provide daily reports and have an open-door policy for parents. Given our Arkansas seasons, it's also wise to ask about their plan for severe weather, ensuring you are comfortable with their procedures.
Finally, remember that the best choice often comes down to a feeling of trust and comfort. The right infant daycare in the Higginson area will welcome your questions, make you feel like a partner in your child's care, and provide a warm, loving atmosphere. It may take a bit of driving to find, but securing that peace of mind is worth every mile. Your baby deserves a wonderful start, and with careful research, you can find a caring extension of your family right here in our corner of White County.