The Best Daycare Centers in Montrose, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Montrose. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Montrose
Little Angels Learning Center
Independent
Little Angels Learning Center serves the Montrose area with a comprehensive early childhood education program featuring the Creative Curriculum system. The center emphasizes developmental milestones through structured play-based learning, with certified early childhood educators leading small group activities. Facilities include secure indoor classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers and a fenced outdoor playground with safety surfaces. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and implements strict security protocols including coded entry systems. Nutritional programs provide balanced meals and snacks following USDA guidelines. Parent communication includes daily reports and regular developmental assessments.
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Dumas Child Development Center
Independent
Dumas Child Development Center offers a research-based curriculum focusing on school readiness through literacy-rich environments and STEM activities. The center features state-licensed teachers with specialized training in early childhood development and maintains Arkansas Better Beginnings quality ratings. Safety measures include comprehensive background checks, surveillance systems, and emergency preparedness protocols. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, toddler learning centers, and preschool classrooms with interactive technology. Extended hours and flexible scheduling accommodate working families in the Montrose area.
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ABC Preschool & Childcare
Independent
ABC Preschool & Childcare serves families throughout Southeast Arkansas including Montrose with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Montessori principles. The center focuses on social-emotional development through structured activities and free play in purpose-built learning environments. Staff includes experienced early childhood professionals with ongoing professional development requirements. The facility features secure outdoor play areas, dedicated art and music rooms, and age-appropriate learning materials. The center emphasizes parent partnership with regular conferences and open communication channels, plus nutritious meal programs accommodating dietary restrictions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Montrose, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Montrose, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Montrose, Arkansas, all childcare facilities serving more than five children must be licensed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. This includes family home providers, church-operated centers, and commercial centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff background checks. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the Arkansas DHS website or contact the DHS Child Care Licensing Unit directly. It's highly recommended to always check this status, as operating without a license is illegal and poses significant risks.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Montrose, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Montrose and the surrounding Ashley County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $110 to $150 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $100 to $130 per week. These rates are generally lower than state urban averages but can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and hours. For financial assistance, Arkansas's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible low-income working families, those in education/training, or those receiving protective services. Eligibility is based on income and family size. Applications are processed through the Ashley County DHS office in Hamburg. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
Are there any licensed in-home daycare providers in Montrose, and what are the pros and cons of this option compared to a center?
Yes, there are licensed family childcare homes in Montrose, which are often a popular choice in smaller communities. These providers care for a smaller group of children (typically 5-10) in a residential setting. The pros include a potentially more home-like, flexible environment, mixed-age interactions, and often more personalized care. They may also be more affordable and have more flexible hours. The cons can include less structured educational programming, dependency on a single provider (meaning closure if they are sick), and potentially fewer resources and facilities. It's crucial to ensure any in-home provider is DHS-licensed and to ask about their backup plan for emergencies.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Montrose, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed facilities in a small town like Montrose, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant spots. It's not uncommon for popular providers to have waitlists of 3 to 6 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a move start their search during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before they need care. Contact providers directly to inquire about their current waitlist policy, any fees to join the list, and how often they update families on their position. Being proactive is key to securing a spot.
What local resources or organizations in Montrose or Ashley County can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare is the Arkansas DHS online search tool. For local, personalized assistance, you can contact the **Arkansas Child Care Aware** referral agency (a program of The Family Center, Inc.), which serves your region. They can provide free referrals, information on quality indicators, and guidance on what to look for during a visit. Additionally, the **Ashley County Cooperative Extension Service** may offer parenting resources and early childhood development information. For evaluating a provider, always schedule an in-person tour, ask for references from current parents, and verify their license includes no serious non-compliance history.