The Best Daycare Centers in Hiwasse, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hiwasse. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hiwasse
The Children's House Montessori School
Independent
The Children's House offers authentic Montessori education serving children from infancy through kindergarten. The school features AMI-trained teachers, carefully prepared Montessori environments, and individualized learning plans. Their infant program emphasizes sensory development and motor skills in a nurturing environment, while older children benefit from hands-on Montessori materials covering practical life, sensorial, language, math, and cultural studies. The facility includes beautiful outdoor classrooms and gardens, with an emphasis on nature-based learning and peaceful conflict resolution. Parents consistently praise the school's dedicated staff and the remarkable developmental progress they observe in their children.
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Primrose School of Bentonville
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Bentonville provides balanced learning through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The school features highly qualified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. Their infant program focuses on building secure attachments and developmental milestones, while their preschool curriculum includes literacy, math, science, and character development. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, secure entry systems, and bright, well-equipped classrooms. Parents appreciate the strong communication through daily reports and the school's commitment to creating a nurturing, educational environment that prepares children for academic success.
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The Goddard School of Bentonville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Bentonville offers a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program, focusing on academic, social, emotional, and physical development. The school employs degreed teachers who create individualized learning plans and maintain low student-teacher ratios. Their comprehensive curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and social skills development in purpose-built classrooms. The facility features secure keypad entry, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and dedicated art and music rooms. Parents consistently note the school's excellent communication, engaging activities, and the visible developmental progress their children make in this stimulating environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hiwasse, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Hiwasse, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Hiwasse, Arkansas, all childcare centers and family childcare homes serving more than five children must be licensed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. 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 "Check a Facility" search tool on the Arkansas DHS website or contact the DHS Child Care Licensing Unit directly. For very small in-home providers (five or fewer children), you can ask if they are a "Registered Family Child Care Home," which is a voluntary certification with slightly different standards. Always ask to see the current license during your tour.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hiwasse, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Hiwasse and Northwest Arkansas region, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $130 to $180 per week, while toddler care may cost between $120 and $160 per week. These rates can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and age of the building. For financial assistance, Arkansas's primary program is the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by DHS, which helps eligible low-income families pay for care. Additionally, local organizations like the United Way of Northwest Arkansas may offer resources or referrals. It's also worth inquiring directly with daycare centers about any private scholarships or sliding scale fees they might offer.
Are there many daycare centers with immediate openings in Hiwasse, or should I expect to join a waitlist?
Due to Hiwasse's smaller, community-oriented size and the high demand for childcare in the broader Benton County area, it is common to encounter waitlists, especially for infant care. Many parents report needing to plan 3 to 6 months in advance. We recommend contacting providers as early as possible. While some family childcare homes may have more immediate availability, the most sought-after centers often have longer waits. Expanding your search to nearby towns like Bentonville, Centerton, or Gravette might provide more options, but be prepared for potential commute considerations and similar waitlist challenges.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Hiwasse—centers, in-home daycares, or faith-based programs?
Hiwasse offers a mix of childcare settings, though the options are more limited than in larger cities. You will find a small number of licensed childcare centers, often operating out of standalone buildings. Family Child Care Homes (in-home daycares) are a prevalent and popular option, offering a home-like environment with smaller groups. Given the region's character, some programs may operate in partnership with or within local churches, offering a faith-based curriculum. Due to the rural nature, informal care networks with trusted neighbors or relatives are also common. Researching options in the surrounding Bentonville ZIP codes (like 72712) will yield more center-based choices.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare facility in Hiwasse, and are there any local resources to help me compare options?
During a tour, look for: a valid DHS license posted; clean, safe, and child-proofed environments; engaged and trained staff; a clear daily schedule; and happy, occupied children. Ask about staff turnover, emergency procedures, and their sick policy. For local comparison, start with the Arkansas DHS "Child Care Search" tool online. Additionally, you can contact the **Arkansas Child Care Aware hotline (1-800-445-3316)**, which is a free referral service that can provide a list of licensed providers in your Hiwasse zip code (72739) and help you understand quality indicators. Don't underestimate the value of asking for recommendations in local Facebook community groups (e.g., "Hiwasse, AR Community") or from other parents at the Hiwasse Post Office or community events.