The Best Daycare Centers in Lake City, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lake City. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lake City
KinderCare Learning Center of Jonesboro
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center of Jonesboro is a highly-regarded childcare facility serving the Lake City area with a research-based curriculum focused on early literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, state-licensed educators with ongoing training, and secure facilities with keypad entry and comprehensive safety protocols. Parents praise the consistent communication through daily reports and a nurturing environment that includes age-appropriate indoor and outdoor play spaces. The center emphasizes developmental milestones tracking and offers nutritious meal programs, making it a trusted choice for families seeking quality early education.
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Primrose School of Jonesboro
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Jonesboro offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, blending academic, physical, and character development. The school is known for its highly qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, safe and clean environments with secured access, and hands-on learning activities. Features include outdoor exploration areas, music and art programs, and a focus on diversity and inclusion. Parent satisfaction is high due to transparent communication, flexible scheduling, and a strong emphasis on preparing children for kindergarten with skills in literacy, math, and social interaction.
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The Goddard School of Jonesboro
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Jonesboro provides a play-based learning environment through their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), which promotes cognitive, social, and physical development. The school boasts experienced educators with background checks and ongoing professional development, along with safety features like secure entry systems and regular health inspections. Parents appreciate the individualized attention, modern facilities with dedicated play areas, and enrichment programs in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math). The center is praised for its communicative staff, cultural diversity initiatives, and comprehensive care that includes healthy meals and extended hours for working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lake City, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Lake City, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Lake City, all childcare centers and family childcare homes must be licensed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. Licensing ensures facilities meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff qualifications. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the free, online "Check a Facility" tool on the Arkansas DHS website. You can search by provider name, city (Lake City), or zip code (72437). It's crucial to choose a licensed provider, as this offers a baseline of oversight and protection for your child. Unlicensed care is illegal unless the provider is caring for fewer than six children unrelated to them.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lake City, AR?
The cost of childcare in Lake City is generally more affordable than in larger Arkansas cities like Little Rock, but it varies by provider type. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately $110 to $150 per week for full-time care of an infant or toddler. Licensed family childcare homes may range from $90 to $130 per week. These rates are estimates, and it's important to inquire directly with providers for their specific pricing, which may include or exclude meals, diapers, and supplies. For financial assistance, eligible families in Craighead County can apply for the Arkansas Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program through the DHS County Office.
Are there any childcare centers in Lake City that offer preschool or pre-K curriculum for 3- and 4-year-olds?
Yes, several options in and around Lake City offer early education programs. Some licensed daycare centers incorporate structured preschool curricula into their daily schedules for pre-K aged children, focusing on school readiness skills like letters, numbers, and social interaction. Additionally, the Lake City School District may offer an Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) pre-K program, which is a state-funded, high-quality preschool for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds. Availability can be limited, so contacting the Lake City Elementary School directly is recommended. Exploring centers in nearby towns like Jonesboro may also provide more specialized preschool programs within a reasonable commute.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Lake City, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the smaller number of providers in Lake City compared to urban areas, quality licensed daycare spots, especially for infants, can fill up quickly. It is not uncommon for popular centers or home providers to have waitlists of 3 to 6 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend that parents begin their search and make contact with potential providers as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before your needed start date. When you tour a facility, be sure to ask about their specific waitlist process, any fees to join, and how often they update families on their position.
What local resources or organizations in Craighead County can help me find and evaluate childcare options in Lake City?
The primary resource for parents is the **Arkansas Child Care Aware** referral service, which is sponsored by DHS. You can call their hotline or use their online search to find licensed providers in Lake City and Craighead County. They provide free referrals and information on checking licensing and quality. Additionally, the **Craighead County Cooperative Extension Service** (part of the University of Arkansas System) often offers parenting workshops and may have resources on child development. For direct assistance with subsidies and programs, the **Jonesboro DHS County Office** (which serves Craighead County, including Lake City) is your point of contact for the CCDF voucher program and other support services.