The Best Daycare Centers in Humphrey, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Humphrey. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Humphrey
The Goddard School of Stuttgart
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Stuttgart offers a premier early childhood education program serving families in the Humphrey area. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on play-based learning with a structured curriculum that promotes social, emotional, and academic development. Certified teachers implement age-appropriate activities in modern, secure classrooms with advanced security systems. The facility features dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and spacious outdoor play areas. Their comprehensive approach includes STEAM learning, literacy development, and character education, with regular parent communication through daily reports and digital updates.
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Kidz Klub Learning Center
Independent
Kidz Klub Learning Center provides comprehensive childcare services for families throughout the Stuttgart-Humphrey region. Their developmentally appropriate curriculum emphasizes early literacy, mathematics readiness, and social skills through hands-on learning activities. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios with qualified staff who receive ongoing training in early childhood education. Safety protocols include secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and thorough background checks. The program includes nutritious meal service, structured nap times, and age-appropriate learning centers that encourage exploration and discovery in a nurturing environment.
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Little People's Place
Independent
Little People's Place has been serving the Arkansas County area including Humphrey for nearly two decades with reliable, quality childcare. Their experienced teaching staff focuses on creating a home-like atmosphere while implementing structured learning activities that prepare children for kindergarten success. The curriculum includes circle time, arts and crafts, music and movement, and outdoor play in their fenced playground. The center emphasizes character development, communication skills, and early academic foundations through play-based learning. Safety measures include monitored access, regular facility inspections, and CPR-certified staff available during all operating hours.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Humphrey, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Humphrey, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Humphrey, Arkansas, all childcare centers and most family childcare homes 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, and staff training. To verify a facility's status, you can use the **Arkansas Child Care Search** tool on the DHS website. This public database shows the provider's license type, any recent compliance history, and if they accept state childcare assistance (ABC Vouchers). For a very small, registered family home caring for fewer than 6 children, you should ask to see their current registration certificate. Always visit in person to observe the environment and ask for references from other Humphrey-area parents.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Humphrey, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Humphrey and the surrounding Arkansas County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from **$110 to $150 per week**, while toddler care is slightly lower, around **$100 to $130 per week**. These rates are generally more affordable than in larger Arkansas cities but can vary based on the facility's amenities and curriculum. For financial assistance, the primary program is the Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) Voucher, which helps eligible low-to-moderate income families. You apply through the Arkansas DHS county office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking if your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
Are daycare waitlists common in Humphrey, and how far in advance should I start looking for a spot?
While Humphrey is a smaller community, quality daycare spots, especially for infants, can be limited due to strict staff-to-child ratios. It is not uncommon for the most sought-after licensed homes or centers to have waitlists of **3 to 6 months**. We strongly recommend starting your search **at least 4-6 months before you need care**, and if you are expecting a new baby, to get on lists during your second trimester. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on their waitlists (which may require a small fee), and check back periodically. Exploring options in nearby towns like Stuttgart or DeWitt can also provide more alternatives if local waitlists are too long.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in a small town like Humphrey, AR?
Humphrey parents typically have two main options: **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** and **Childcare Centers**. Family homes are often run by a provider in their residence, offering a smaller, home-like environment with mixed-age groups, which can be great for siblings. Centers are less common in a town of Humphrey's size but may be found through local churches or community organizations; they offer a more structured, classroom-like setting. Due to the rural setting, formal preschool programs are often integrated into these daycare settings. There are fewer large corporate chains; most providers are locally owned and operated, which can mean more personalized care but also variable availability.
What should I specifically look for or ask about during a daycare tour in Humphrey, given the local context?
During a tour in Humphrey, beyond general safety and cleanliness, ask locally relevant questions: **1. Emergency Plans:** How do they handle severe weather common to Arkansas, like tornadoes? Where is the safe room? **2. Transportation & Field Trips:** Do they provide any transportation? If so, are vehicles properly licensed and insured? For older children, are there enriching local outings (e.g., to the Stuttgart Rice & Duck Festival, library, or park)? **3. Staff Longevity:** In a small community, low staff turnover is a good sign of a stable environment. Ask how long caregivers have been there. **4. Communication:** How do they communicate with parents daily (e.g., apps, paper notes)? Given that many parents may commute for work, clear communication is key. **5. Flexibility:** What is their policy for late pick-ups, especially considering potential travel delays on rural roads? Finally, trust your instincts about the caregiver's warmth and engagement with the children.