The Best Daycare Centers in Parthenon, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Parthenon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Parthenon
Rainbow of Learning Child Development Center
Rainbow of Learning
Rainbow of Learning is a highly-regarded childcare center located approximately 20 miles from Parthenon in Harrison. They offer a comprehensive educational program with age-appropriate curriculum including the Creative Curriculum for infants through pre-K. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education credentials, low student-teacher ratios, and secure facilities with keypad entry systems. Their program emphasizes developmental milestones, social-emotional learning, and school readiness skills. The facility includes modern classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and provides nutritious meals. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean environment, and strong communication from teachers.
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First Step Learning Center
First Step Learning Center
First Step Learning Center serves the North Central Arkansas region including Parthenon families. They provide a structured educational environment with a play-based learning approach that incorporates literacy, mathematics, and social studies. The center employs qualified early childhood educators who maintain ongoing professional development. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The curriculum focuses on developing cognitive, physical, and social skills through hands-on activities and creative expression. The facility features spacious classrooms, outdoor play areas, and offers extended hours to accommodate working families in the rural Newton County area.
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The Learning Tree Preschool & Childcare
The Learning Tree
Located in Jasper approximately 15 miles from Parthenon, The Learning Tree has served Newton County families for nearly two decades. They offer a comprehensive early childhood program that balances academic preparation with social development. The center uses a research-based curriculum that includes STEM activities, literacy development, and character education. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in continuous training. The facility includes secure classrooms, age-specific learning centers, and natural outdoor play spaces. Parents appreciate the small class sizes, individualized attention, and the center's commitment to creating a nurturing, home-like environment while maintaining high educational standards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Parthenon, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Parthenon, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Parthenon, Arkansas, 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, you can use the free, online "Check Child Care Facility" tool on the Arkansas DHS website. You can search by facility name, city, or county (Newton County). It's crucial to check this status, as operating without a license is illegal. Licensed facilities in Parthenon are subject to regular, unannounced inspections, and their compliance history is public record.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Parthenon, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Parthenon and greater Newton County area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than state and national averages, but availability is limited. For an infant, you might expect to pay between $100 to $140 per week, while toddler care may range from $90 to $120 per week. These are estimates, and prices can vary significantly between licensed centers and registered family homes. For financial assistance, Arkansas's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible low-income families pay for care. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or education requirements. You can apply through the Newton County DHS office in Jasper. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
Are there any licensed daycare centers in Parthenon itself, or will I need to look in surrounding towns?
Parthenon is a very small, unincorporated community, so licensed daycare centers within its immediate boundaries are extremely rare or non-existent. Parents typically need to look in surrounding towns within Newton and Boone Counties. The closest towns with more childcare options include Jasper (the Newton County seat, about 15-20 minutes away), Harrison (in Boone County, about 30-40 minutes away), and Western Grove. Your search will primarily involve licensed family childcare homes in the rural area or centers in these larger towns. Planning for transportation and potential waitlists in these neighboring communities is essential.
What should I look for when visiting a potential family childcare home in a rural area like Parthenon?
When visiting a family childcare home in rural Parthenon, pay close attention to factors unique to the setting. First, confirm their DHS license is current and posted. Ask about their emergency preparedness plan for severe weather (common in Arkansas) and medical emergencies, given the distance to hospitals. Inquire about their outdoor play area—is it safely enclosed, especially given the potential for wildlife? Check the home's overall safety: covered electrical outlets, safe storage of cleaning supplies and medications, and secure gates on stairs. Discuss their policy on screen time and their daily educational structure. Given the isolation, also ask about backup care plans if the provider is sick. Personal recommendations from other local families are invaluable in tight-knit rural communities.
How long are waitlists for daycare in the Parthenon area, and when should I start my search?
Due to the limited number of providers in and around Parthenon, waitlists can be lengthy and unpredictable. For an infant spot, especially at a licensed center in Jasper or Harrison, it is not uncommon to be on a waitlist for 6 to 12 months. For family childcare homes, waitlists may be shorter but are still common. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move start their search as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before care is needed. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on multiple waitlists (even if there's a small fee), and follow up every few months to express continued interest. Flexibility on your start date can also improve your chances.