The Best Daycare Centers in Scranton, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Scranton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Scranton
The Learning Tree Early Education Center
Independent
The Learning Tree offers a comprehensive educational program with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. Features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Known for their engaging outdoor play areas and nutritious meal programs. Serves families throughout the region including Scranton area.
Daycare Services:
ABC Children's Academy
Independent
ABC Children's Academy provides a balanced curriculum focusing on cognitive, physical, and social development. Features low teacher-to-child ratios, certified early childhood educators, and modern security systems including surveillance cameras and secure check-in procedures. Offers enrichment programs in music, art, and physical education. The center is praised for its clean facilities, structured daily routines, and strong parent communication system. Many families commute from surrounding areas including Scranton.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Kottage Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Kiddie Kottage provides a nurturing environment with a focus on individual child development and school readiness. Their curriculum emphasizes language development, early math concepts, and creative expression through hands-on activities. Staff includes experienced teachers with background checks and ongoing professional development. Features secure facilities with fenced playgrounds, healthy meal programs, and flexible scheduling options. Well-established reputation serving the greater Fort Smith region including Scranton residents.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Scranton, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Scranton, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Scranton, Arkansas, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. This includes family home providers caring for 6 or more children and all childcare centers. Licensing ensures minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the Arkansas DHS website. You can also call the DHS Child Care Licensing Unit for the Northwest region. It's highly recommended to check for any recent violations or probationary status before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Scranton, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Scranton and the surrounding Logan County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $110 to $140 per week, while toddler care may be slightly lower, around $100 to $125 per week. These rates are generally more affordable than in larger Arkansas cities. For financial assistance, the Arkansas DHS administers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance. You can apply through the Logan County DHS office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
Given Scranton's rural location, what types of childcare options are most commonly available, and are waitlists a significant issue?
In Scranton, the most common options are licensed family childcare homes and smaller, home-based daycare providers. There are limited larger childcare centers, with parents sometimes commuting to nearby towns like Booneville or Paris for center-based care. Due to the smaller number of providers, waitlists can be an issue, especially for infant care slots, which are in high demand. It's advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists several months in advance, if possible. Networking with other local parents through community groups or churches can also help you discover lesser-known, licensed home providers.
What should I look for in a daycare's emergency preparedness plan, specifically for Scranton's environment?
Given Scranton's location in a rural area with potential for severe weather (like tornadoes) and limited immediate access to major hospitals, a robust emergency plan is crucial. When touring a facility, ask specifically about their severe weather shelter location (preferably a basement or interior room without windows), how they practice tornado drills, and their protocol for communication with parents during emergencies. Also, inquire about their plan for medical emergencies, including the proximity of the nearest EMT/first responder station and how they handle transportation if an ambulance is delayed. A good provider will have clear, written plans and will discuss them confidently.
Are there any state-funded early childhood education programs, like Arkansas Better Chance (ABC), available for preschoolers in Scranton?
Yes, the Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) for School Success program provides free, high-quality pre-K education to eligible 3- and 4-year-olds from families with lower incomes. In Scranton and Logan County, these programs are typically hosted within the local public school district or a partnering childcare center. Availability is limited and based on funding and slots. You should contact the Scranton School District office or the Logan County DHS office to inquire about application processes, eligibility requirements, and program locations. Enrollment usually begins in the spring for the following school year.