The Best Daycare Centers in Mount Vernon, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Mount Vernon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Mount Vernon
The Goddard School of Conway
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Conway offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development activities. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and provides daily communication to parents about their child's activities and progress.
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Primrose School of West Little Rock
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of West Little Rock provides Balanced Learning® approach that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. Their exclusive curriculum includes literacy, math, science, social studies, and arts. The school features secure facilities with coded entry systems, outdoor learning environments, and dedicated music and art rooms. All lead teachers have early childhood education credentials and participate in continuous training. The school emphasizes partnership with families through regular communication and parent resources.
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Children's Courtyard of Conway
Children's Courtyard
Children's Courtyard of Conway offers comprehensive early education programs with research-based curriculum that includes phonics, mathematics, science, and social skills development. The center features secure facilities with electronic entry systems, age-separated playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. Their experienced teaching staff includes professionals with early childhood education degrees and certifications. The program includes nutritious meals and snacks, regular developmental assessments, and enrichment activities like music and movement. Parents receive daily reports and regular conferences to track their child's progress.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Mount Vernon, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Mount Vernon, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Mount Vernon, 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 licensing ensures they meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff background checks. To verify a facility's license and compliance history, you can use the "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the Arkansas DHS website. You can also contact the DHS Child Care Licensing Unit for the Central Region, which oversees Faulkner County, for specific records or to ask about any recent inspections or complaints. It's always recommended to visit a facility in person to see if it meets your family's standards beyond the basic state requirements.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Mount Vernon, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Mount Vernon and broader Faulkner County area, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week. For toddlers, it may be slightly lower, around $110 to $140 per week. Home-based daycare is often more affordable, averaging $90 to $120 weekly. These costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, hours, and curriculum. For financial assistance, Arkansas offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families based on income, work, or school enrollment. You can apply through the Faulkner County DHS office in Conway. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to ask directly.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Mount Vernon, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to the smaller number of licensed childcare options in a rural community like Mount Vernon, popular centers and highly-regarded home daycares can have significant waitlists, especially for infant care. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before you need care. Many parents in the area also explore options in nearby towns like Conway or Vilonia, which may have more facilities but could also have waitlists and involve a commute. Being proactive, making multiple inquiries, and staying in touch with providers is key to securing a spot.
What types of childcare settings are most common in Mount Vernon—childcare centers, registered family homes, or informal care?
In Mount Vernon's rural setting, registered family childcare homes are a very common and often preferred option. These are licensed homes that care for a smaller number of children, offering a more home-like environment. There are also a limited number of licensed childcare centers, which may operate in partnership with local churches or community organizations. Informal care (unlicensed care by relatives, friends, or neighbors) is also prevalent, especially for part-time or flexible needs. For licensed care, parents should prioritize providers registered with Arkansas DHS to ensure basic health and safety standards are met. Networking through local community groups or churches is a common way to find trusted providers.
What should I look for when touring a daycare in Mount Vernon, considering our local community and resources?
When touring a facility in Mount Vernon, look for signs of active licensing, such as the posted license and recent inspection reports. Ask about their emergency plans for severe weather common to Arkansas, like tornadoes, and their policy on sick children. Given the rural location, inquire about their outdoor play area and how they incorporate local experiences (like nature walks, farm visits) into learning. Check the staff's qualifications and longevity—low turnover indicates a stable environment. Also, ask about their communication with parents, especially if you commute to Conway or Little Rock for work. Finally, trust your instincts on the cleanliness, safety, and overall warmth of the environment for your child.