The Best Daycare Centers in Romance, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Romance. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Romance
Kidz Life Academy
Independent
Kidz Life Academy is a highly-regarded childcare center located just 8 miles from Romance in Cabot. They offer a comprehensive educational program with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. The center features state-certified teachers, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facilities with monitored access. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, music, and physical education. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, modern classrooms with interactive technology, and a dedicated infant care wing with separate sleeping and feeding areas. Parents consistently praise their excellent communication, nutritious meal program, and the nurturing environment that promotes social-emotional development.
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The Learning Tree
Independent
The Learning Tree provides exceptional early childhood education serving the Romance area from their Cabot location. They employ a balanced curriculum that combines Montessori-inspired learning with traditional educational approaches. All lead teachers hold early childhood education degrees or certifications, and the center maintains rigorous safety protocols including secure entry systems and comprehensive background checks. The facility features dedicated learning centers for different developmental stages, outdoor learning environments, and a focus on hands-on experiential learning. Their program emphasizes character development, literacy readiness, and kindergarten preparation. The center is known for its family-oriented atmosphere and consistent parent communication through daily reports and digital updates.
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The Academy at NACC
North Arkansas College
The Academy at North Arkansas College is a college-affiliated childcare center that serves families throughout the region, including Romance area residents. As a lab school environment, they maintain exceptionally high standards with degreed early childhood professionals and ongoing staff development. The center implements a research-based curriculum focused on developmental milestones and school readiness. They offer comprehensive services including developmental screenings, individualized learning plans, and family support resources. The facility includes observation rooms for parent viewing, specialized learning environments for different age groups, and extensive educational resources. Their program integrates early literacy, mathematics, science exploration, and social studies through hands-on learning experiences. The center is particularly noted for its inclusive environment and commitment to serving children with diverse learning needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Romance, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Romance, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Romance, 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, background checks, and staff training. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the "Check a Facility" search tool on the Arkansas DHS website or contact the DHS Child Care Licensing Unit directly. Given Romance's smaller, rural setting, you may also find registered family childcare homes (serving 5-10 children), which have a different set of requirements. Always ask to see the current license during a tour.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Romance, AR, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In the Romance area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $120 to $160 per week. For toddlers, it may be slightly lower, around $110 to $140 per week. Family childcare homes can sometimes be more affordable. These rates are generally lower than state urban averages but are significant for local family budgets. Financial assistance is available through the Arkansas DHS Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance requirements. You can apply through the White County DHS office in nearby Searcy. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in and around Romance, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of licensed childcare options in Romance and the surrounding rural areas of White County, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. It's not unusual for popular centers or highly-regarded in-home providers to have waitlists of 3 to 6 months, or even longer. To secure a spot, it's recommended to begin your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. Be proactive: call facilities to inquire about their current list length, ask about their enrollment process, and follow up periodically. Consider expanding your search to nearby communities like Searcy or Beebe for more options.
What are the options for part-time or drop-in childcare in Romance, AR, for parents with irregular schedules?
Finding consistent part-time or drop-in care in a small community like Romance can be challenging, as most licensed providers prioritize full-time enrollments to maintain stable income. Your best options are likely to be registered family childcare homes, which may offer more schedule flexibility. Some providers in the area might offer "mother's day out" programs on specific weekdays. For true drop-in or emergency care, you may need to look toward larger centers in Searcy (about a 15-minute drive), which are more likely to offer such services if space allows. Networking with other local parents through community groups or churches can also help you find informal, trusted babysitters for irregular needs.
Are there any state-funded pre-K programs available for 3- and 4-year-olds in the Romance area, and how do they differ from private daycare?
Yes, the Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) program provides free, high-quality pre-K education for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds from families meeting certain income requirements. In the Romance area, these programs are typically administered through the local public school district, likely the Riverview School District. ABC programs are staffed by licensed teachers, follow a structured educational curriculum, and operate on a standard school calendar and hours, which differs from the year-round, full-day care offered by most private daycares. Enrollment is prioritized based on need. Contact the Riverview School District office or the Arkansas DHS for application details. This can be a excellent, cost-effective option to prepare your child for kindergarten.