The Best Daycare Centers in LRAFB, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in LRAFB. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in LRAFB
The Goddard School of Jacksonville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Jacksonville is a premier early childhood education center located just minutes from LRAFB, serving many military families. They employ a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. All lead teachers have college degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with advanced learning materials. The school maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and offers nutritious meal programs. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, foreign language exposure, and regular progress reports for parents.
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La Petite Academy of Jacksonville
Learning Care Group
La Petite Academy provides high-quality early education with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes school readiness and developmental milestones. Located conveniently for LRAFB families, they offer individualized learning paths and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility includes secure access controls, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and classrooms equipped with interactive technology. Their teachers receive ongoing professional development and are trained in CPR and first aid. The academy focuses on developing literacy, math, and social skills through hands-on learning experiences and offers flexible scheduling to accommodate military family needs.
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Kidz World Learning Center
Independent
Kidz World Learning Center is a locally-owned childcare facility that has built a strong reputation for serving the Jacksonville and LRAFB community. They implement a balanced curriculum combining play-based learning with structured academic preparation. The center features secure facilities with surveillance systems, age-specific learning environments, and outdoor play areas with modern safety surfaces. Their staff includes experienced early childhood educators with background checks and ongoing training requirements. Kidz World emphasizes character development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness while providing nutritious meals and maintaining open communication with parents through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in LRAFB, AR
What are the main childcare options available for military families stationed at Little Rock Air Force Base (LRAFB)?
For families at LRAFB, the primary options are the on-base Child Development Center (CDC) and Family Child Care (FCC) homes. The CDC is a large, licensed facility offering full-day, part-day, and hourly care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. It is accredited and prioritizes military families. The FCC program consists of licensed providers who care for children in their on-base or nearby homes, offering a more intimate setting and often more flexible hours. Off-base, there are several licensed centers and homes in Jacksonville, Cabot, and Sherwood. Utilizing the on-base options often provides the greatest convenience, consistency with military schedules, and priority during deployments or extended duty.
How do waitlists work for the LRAFB Child Development Center, and what can I do to improve my chances of securing a spot?
Waitlists for the LRAFB CDC are managed by priority categories, as mandated by the Department of Defense. The highest priority is given to single military members and dual-military couples, followed by one active-duty parent with a working spouse, and then other categories. Wait times can vary from weeks to several months, especially for infants. To improve your chances, register on the waitlist as soon as you have orders to the base, even if your move is months away. You can also get on multiple waitlists simultaneously, including for the FCC program and reputable off-base providers in Jacksonville. Regularly check in with the CDC's administration office to update your status and express continued interest.
What are the typical costs for childcare in the LRAFB area, and is there financial assistance available?
Costs are based on your Total Family Income (TFI) for the on-base CDC and FCC programs, making it highly affordable compared to civilian market rates. Fees are set on a sliding scale, so you pay according to your income tier. For off-base care in central Arkansas, full-time infant care can range from $150 to $220 per week, while preschool-age care may be $120 to $180 per week. Military families may be eligible for fee assistance through the Department of Defense's Child Care Aware of America program if they use a community (off-base) provider. This program can subsidize a significant portion of the cost based on your TFI, making accredited off-base care more accessible.
What specific state of Arkansas regulations and accreditations should I look for when choosing a daycare off-base in the Jacksonville/Cabot area?
All childcare providers must be licensed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services, Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. You should verify a provider's license status, which includes meeting standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety, and health. Look for additional accreditations that indicate higher quality, such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or a high rating in Arkansas's Better Beginnings quality rating system. For military families, providers that are approved to accept Child Care Aware fee assistance are also a good sign, as they meet certain standards. You can check licenses and complaints through the Arkansas DHS website or by asking the provider directly for their license number.
Are there any childcare resources or support services specifically for LRAFB parents facing deployment, TDY, or emergency situations?
Yes, LRAFB offers specific support through the Airman & Family Readiness Center (A&FRC) and the CDC/FCC program. The CDC reserves a limited number of spaces for "mission-essential" care during deployments, exercises, or sudden shifts in duty schedules. For emergency, short-term, or hourly care (up to 20 hours per week), the CDC offers a program called "Give Parents a Break." The A&FRC is a key resource for navigating childcare challenges during transitions and can provide referrals and information on all available options. It's crucial to communicate your situation (e.g., impending deployment) with the CDC/FCC office and your unit's leadership early, as this can affect your priority on waitlists and access to emergency care.
Childcare Insights for LRAFB
Finding quality, affordable childcare is one of the most pressing concerns for military families at Little Rock Air Force Base. The search for "cheap daycare near me" in the LRAFB, Arkansas area is about more than just cost; it’s about finding a safe, reliable, and nurturing environment for your child that fits within the unique demands of military life. Fortunately, the community surrounding the base offers several pathways to accessible care, though navigating them requires a bit of local insight and early planning.
Your first and most valuable resource is the Child Development Center (CDC) right here on Little Rock Air Force Base. While "cheap" is relative, the CDC operates on a sliding fee scale based on your total family income, which can make it significantly more affordable than many off-base options. The peace of mind that comes with on-base security, structured programs, and staff who understand the military lifestyle is immense. However, spaces are limited and waitlists are common, so contacting the CDC for a tour and to get on the list should be a top priority, even before you have a confirmed need. The same proactive approach applies to the School Age Care program for older children.
Exploring the immediate communities of Jacksonville, Cabot, and Sherwood can reveal other affordable possibilities. Many in-home daycare providers, often run by military spouses or retirees, offer competitive rates and a flexible, family-like atmosphere. These can be wonderful, cost-effective alternatives. To find licensed providers, utilize the Arkansas DHS Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education website to search by zip code. This ensures any home or center you consider meets state health and safety standards. Don’t underestimate the power of your local network, either. Ask for recommendations within your squadron, at the Airman & Family Readiness Center, or in community Facebook groups like those for LRAFB spouses. Personal referrals often lead to discovering hidden gems that aren’t widely advertised.
When evaluating "cheap daycare" in the LRAFB area, look beyond the weekly rate. Consider the value of what’s included, such as meals, educational curriculum, and hours of operation that align with potential shift work or extended duty days. Some centers may offer discounts for additional siblings, which can add up to substantial savings. It’s also wise to inquire about any local assistance programs. While military-specific subsidies like the Child Care Aware fee assistance program often have waitlists, they are worth investigating for long-term planning. Remember, an affordable option that feels right and provides stability for your child during the transitions of military life is an investment in your entire family’s well-being. By starting your search early, leveraging both on-base and local resources, and asking the right questions, you can find a childcare solution in the LRAFB community that offers both quality and peace of mind for your budget.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near LRAFB: